What To Know
- While traditionally prepared in a pan, this recipe brings the convenience of the Instant Pot to create a delicious and effortless chicken cordon bleu.
- To reheat, place the chicken cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- With its crispy breading, tender chicken, and melted cheese, chicken cordon bleu is a dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul.
Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, crispy breading, and melted cheese. While traditionally prepared in a pan, this recipe brings the convenience of the Instant Pot to create a delicious and effortless chicken cordon bleu. Get ready to indulge in this culinary masterpiece with our step-by-step guide and helpful tips.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices deli ham
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Place a slice of ham and cheese on each chicken breast.
- Fold the chicken breasts in half, securing the filling with toothpicks.
3. Create the Breading:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and melted butter.
4. Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge the chicken breasts in the breading mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Cook in the Instant Pot:
- Add the chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the Instant Pot.
- Place a trivet or steamer basket inside the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken breasts on top.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Make the Sauce:
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
- Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.
- Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting.
- Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Place the chicken cordon bleu on a serving platter and drizzle with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu:
- Use Thinly Sliced Ham and Cheese: This ensures the chicken cordon bleu rolls up easily and cooks evenly.
- Pound the Chicken Breasts Evenly: This helps the chicken cook uniformly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Instant Pot: Cook the chicken breasts in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Adjust the Cooking Time: If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Chicken cordon bleu is best enjoyed fresh out of the Instant Pot.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar.
- Add Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be added to the chicken cordon bleu for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Herbs: Try adding dried thyme, oregano, or basil to the breading mixture for a more flavorful crust.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken cordon bleu rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Storing and Reheating:
- Storing: Leftover chicken cordon bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken cordon bleu in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for chicken cordon bleu.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add color and nutrition to the meal.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing accompaniment.
- Rice Pilaf: Rice pilaf is a flavorful and elegant side dish that pairs well with chicken cordon bleu.
“The Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Experience” – Conclusion
With its crispy breading, tender chicken, and melted cheese, chicken cordon bleu is a dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul. The Instant Pot makes this classic recipe even more accessible, allowing you to create a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort. Experiment with different variations and sides to create your own unique chicken cordon bleu experience. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu without bread crumbs?
A: Yes, you can use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute for bread crumbs.
Q: How can I make sure the cheese doesn‘t leak out while cooking?
A: Make sure to seal the chicken breasts tightly before cooking. You can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the filling.
Q: Can I cook chicken cordon bleu in the oven instead of the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can cook chicken cordon bleu in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken breasts for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: What are some other ways to serve chicken cordon bleu?
A: Chicken cordon bleu can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.
