What To Know
- While traditionally prepared in the oven, grilling chicken cordon bleu offers a unique twist that adds a smoky aroma and succulent texture to the dish.
- Place the chicken cordon bleu on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu that will impress your family and friends.
Chicken cordon bleu, a classic French dish, combines the savory flavors of chicken, cheese, and ham for an unforgettable culinary experience. While traditionally prepared in the oven, grilling chicken cordon bleu offers a unique twist that adds a smoky aroma and succulent texture to the dish. This blog post will guide you through the steps of how to grill chicken cordon bleu, ensuring a perfectly cooked and flavorful masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 8 slices of ham
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Olive oil
Equipment:
- Grill
- Grill grate
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Cordon Bleu:
- Place a slice of ham and Swiss cheese on each piece of chicken.
- Fold the chicken over the filling, securing the edges with toothpicks.
3. Breading the Chicken:
- In three separate bowls, set up the flour, egg, and bread crumbs.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the bread crumbs.
4. Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the grill grate with olive oil.
- Place the chicken cordon bleu on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success:
- For a crispy crust, double-bread the chicken by repeating the dredging and breading process.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
- If the breading starts to burn, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill.
- Serve the chicken cordon bleu with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing.
Variations:
- Add a layer of spinach or arugula to the filling for a fresh twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to customize the flavor.
- Wrap the chicken cordon bleu in bacon before grilling for an extra layer of savory richness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the chicken cordon bleu with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
- Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer cut into bite-sized pieces.
Culinary Symphony: The Enduring Appeal of Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken cordon bleu has captivated taste buds for centuries, its combination of flavors and textures creating a culinary symphony. Grilling this classic dish elevates it to new heights, adding a smoky depth that complements the savory filling. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a mouthwatering chicken cordon bleu that will impress your family and friends.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A1. Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before pounding and assembling the cordon bleu.
Q2. How can I prevent the filling from leaking out while grilling?
A2. Use toothpicks to securely seal the edges of the chicken before breading and grilling.
Q3. What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken cordon bleu?
A3. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
