Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu With Thighs: A Delightfully Crispy And Cheesy Dish

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. Traditionally made with chicken breast, this recipe takes a delightful twist by using succulent chicken thighs. The result is a juicy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion dinner or simply looking for a comforting meal, this chicken cordon bleu recipe with thighs is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped ham
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
• In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken thighs in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Transfer the chicken thighs to a baking dish.

3. Prepare the Filling:

• In the same skillet, add the onion and mushrooms. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the ham and Swiss cheese to the skillet and stir until the cheese is melted.

4. Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• Place a spoonful of the filling on each chicken thigh.
• Fold the chicken thighs in half, enclosing the filling.

5. Bake the Chicken Cordon Bleu:

• In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken thighs.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bread crumbs are golden brown.

6. Serve:

• Remove the chicken cordon bleu from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.

Variations

• Use Different Cheese: Instead of Swiss cheese, you can use other melting cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère.
• Add Vegetables: For a more colorful dish, add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling.
• Make it Saucy: For a richer flavor, add a creamy sauce made with white wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
• Serve with Sides: Accompany the chicken cordon bleu with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook the chicken until it is just cooked through to maintain its tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will greatly enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken cordon bleu ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake it according to the recipe instructions.

Takeaways: Embark on a Culinary Journey with Chicken Cordon Bleu

With its tantalizing combination of flavors and textures, this chicken cordon bleu recipe with thighs is a culinary delight that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to a world of culinary bliss.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. However, chicken thighs are generally more flavorful and juicy due to their higher fat content.

Q: What can I substitute for white wine?

A: If you don’t have white wine on hand, you can use chicken broth or even water. However, white wine adds a subtle flavor to the dish that enhances its overall taste.

Q: How can I make the dish gluten-free?

A: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs. You can also omit the breadcrumb topping altogether and simply sprinkle the chicken thighs with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.