Experience The Heaven Of Flavors: Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe With Cream Of Chicken Soup

Embark on a culinary adventure with this exceptional chicken cordon bleu recipe, where tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a blanket of flavorful ham and melted Swiss cheese, all complemented by a creamy and savory sauce made with cream of chicken soup. Prepare to indulge in a dish that combines classic French techniques with modern convenience, offering a taste of luxury that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup butter, divided
• 8 thin slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Create the Breadcrumb Mixture:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Lay a slice of ham on a flat surface.
• Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
• Place a seasoned chicken breast on top of the cheese.
• Fold the ham and cheese over the chicken breast, creating a pocket.
• Dredge the assembled chicken cordon bleu in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Pan-Fry the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
• Carefully place the chicken cordon bleu in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Transfer the chicken cordon bleu to a baking dish.

5. Bake the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the chicken cordon bleu for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

6. Prepare the Cream Sauce:

• In a saucepan, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the cream of chicken soup, milk, and white wine.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the chicken cordon bleu from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Pour the cream sauce over the chicken cordon bleu.
• Garnish with grated Gruyère cheese and chopped parsley.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success:

• To ensure the chicken is evenly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but they may not be as crispy.
• You can also use different types of cheese for the filling, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina.
• If you don’t have dry white wine, you can use chicken broth or water instead.
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Variations:

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with slices of portobello mushrooms or zucchini.
• To make a more decadent dish, use a mixture of cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Pair the chicken cordon bleu with a glass of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing and flavorful combination.
• If you prefer red wine, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
• For a non-alcoholic option, serve the chicken cordon bleu with sparkling water or iced tea.

“A Culinary Symphony: The Chicken Cordon Bleu Experience”

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of chicken cordon bleu, a dish that epitomizes culinary excellence. With its tender chicken, savory ham, melted cheese, and creamy sauce, this recipe offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Elevate your dining experience with this classic dish, perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight meal.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may take a few minutes longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

2. Can I make the chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble the chicken cordon bleu and bread them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How can I make the chicken cordon bleu more crispy?

• To achieve a crispier crust, double-coat the chicken cordon bleu in the breadcrumb mixture before pan-frying.