What To Know
- Place the cordon bleus in a baking dish and cover it with a lid that fits snugly.
- A baking sheet is suitable for larger cordon bleus or if you are making a batch.
- The baking time and temperature for chicken cordon bleu vary depending on the size and thickness of the cordon bleus.
Chicken cordon bleu is a classic dish that combines juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy breading. While preparing this delectable meal, a common question arises: do you cover chicken cordon bleu when baking? To answer this query and guide you through the perfect cordon bleu baking process, this comprehensive blog post will delve into the intricacies of covering during baking.
Why Cover Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Covering chicken cordon bleu during baking provides several benefits:
- Maintains Moisture: Keeping the cordon bleu covered traps moisture inside, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
- Prevents Overbrowning: Covering the cordon bleu shields it from direct heat, preventing the breading from burning or overbrowning.
- Creates a Steaming Effect: The covered environment creates a steaming effect, which helps melt the cheese evenly and prevents it from hardening.
When to Cover Chicken Cordon Bleu
For the First Half of Baking:
Covering the cordon bleu during the first half of baking is essential to achieve the desired results. The cover traps moisture and prevents premature browning, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and the cheese to melt thoroughly.
After the First Half:
Once the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, remove the cover for the remaining baking time. This allows the breading to become crispy and golden brown.
How to Cover Chicken Cordon Bleu
There are two common methods for covering chicken cordon bleu:
- Aluminum Foil: Wrap each cordon bleu tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring there are no gaps or holes.
- Baking Dish with Lid: Place the cordon bleus in a baking dish and cover it with a lid that fits snugly.
Types of Baking Dishes
The choice of baking dish depends on the size and quantity of cordon bleus you are preparing:
- Individual Ramekins: Use individual ramekins for small cordon bleus.
- Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is suitable for larger cordon bleus or if you are making a batch.
- Roasting Pan: A roasting pan is ideal for a large number of cordon bleus.
Baking Time and Temperature
The baking time and temperature for chicken cordon bleu vary depending on the size and thickness of the cordon bleus:
- Small Cordon Bleus: 18-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
- Large Cordon Bleus: 22-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
Cooking Tips
- Preheat the Oven: Always preheat the oven to the desired temperature before baking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let Rest: Allow the cordon bleus to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken cordon bleu can be served with various sides, such as:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the cordon bleu.
- Rice Pilaf: Savory rice pilaf adds a flavorful base to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables provide a healthy and vibrant accompaniment.
FAQ
1. Why is my chicken cordon bleu dry?
- The cordon bleu may have been overcooked or not covered during the first half of baking.
2. How do I make the breading crispy?
- Uncover the cordon bleu during the last 5-7 minutes of baking to allow the breading to crisp up.
3. Can I use frozen chicken cordon bleu?
- Yes, but increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the cordon bleus up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed before serving.
5. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
- Seal the edges of the cordon bleu properly before baking. Use a toothpick or skewer to secure the ham and cheese inside.
