Can You Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead Of Time? Here’s The Answer!

Chicken cordon bleu, a classic French dish, tantalizes taste buds with its tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy breading. But what if you want to savor this delicacy without the last-minute hustle? Can you prepare chicken cordon bleu ahead of time? The answer is a resounding yes! With proper planning and execution, you can enjoy this culinary delight at your convenience.

Benefits of Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time

• Time-saving: Prepare the dish in advance, freeing up time for other tasks on the day of the event.
• Stress-free entertaining: Welcome guests with a delicious meal without the pressure of last-minute cooking.
• Perfect for meal prepping: Pack individual portions for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Ahead of Time

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken breasts.
• Pound the breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Cordon Bleu

• Place a slice of ham on each chicken breast.
• Top with a slice of Swiss cheese.
• Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Step 3: Bread the Cordon Bleu

• In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper.
• In another shallow dish, beat eggs.
• In a third shallow dish, spread out breadcrumbs.
• Dredge the chicken rolls in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bake or Fry

Baking:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cordon bleu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Frying:

• Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F (190°C).
• Carefully drop the cordon bleu into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Storing Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Uncooked: Store the breaded cordon bleu in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Cooked: Store the cooked cordon bleu in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Uncooked: Thaw the cordon bleu in the refrigerator overnight before baking or frying.
• Cooked: Reheat the cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure even cooking.
• Be careful not to overfill the cordon bleu with cheese, as it can leak out during baking or frying.
• Allow the cordon bleu to rest for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Variations

• Ham and Swiss: The classic combination.
• Prosciutto and Mozzarella: A salty and tangy twist.
• Turkey and Gouda: A lighter and healthier option.
• Chicken and Spinach: A nutritious and flavorful variation.

Final Note: A Culinary Time-Saver

Making chicken cordon bleu ahead of time is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this delicious dish. By following the steps outlined above, you can prepare and store the cordon bleu in advance, freeing up your time and reducing stress. Whether you’re entertaining guests or meal prepping, this culinary trick will elevate your dining experience.

What You Need to Know

1. How far in advance can I make chicken cordon bleu?

You can make and store uncooked chicken cordon bleu in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

2. How do I reheat frozen chicken cordon bleu?

Thaw the frozen cordon bleu in the refrigerator overnight before baking or frying.

3. Can I use different types of cheese in chicken cordon bleu?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gruyere.