How To Make Chicken Cordon Bleu With Broccoli – It’s So Easy And Delicious!

Indulge in the culinary masterpiece of Chicken Cordon Bleu, a classic French dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, melty cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. This delectable dish is effortlessly elevated with the addition of vibrant broccoli florets, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Follow our step-by-step guide to master the art of creating this gourmet dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Breadcrumbs:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Broccoli:

• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Filling the Chicken:

1. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each chicken breast pocket.
2. Secure the pockets with toothpicks.

Making the Breadcrumbs:

1. Combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.

Coating the Chicken:

1. Dredge the chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Baking the Chicken:

1. Place the breaded chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown.

Preparing the Broccoli:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.

Serving:

1. Plate the chicken cordon bleu with the roasted broccoli.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.

Tips for Success

• For a crispy breadcrumb coating, use a combination of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Don’t overfill the chicken pockets, as this will prevent the cheese from melting evenly.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• For a vegetarian alternative, replace the ham with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.

Variations

• Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Serve the chicken cordon bleu with a creamy mushroom sauce made with sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk.
• Parmesan Crusted Broccoli: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli before roasting for a cheesy twist.
• Lemon Herb Butter: Enhance the flavors with a lemon herb butter made with melted butter, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

Final Thoughts

Embark on a culinary adventure with our foolproof guide on how to make chicken cordon bleu with broccoli. With its tender chicken, savory ham, melty cheese, crispy breadcrumb coating, and vibrant broccoli, this dish will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Impress your loved ones and elevate your dining experience with this gourmet masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in the chicken cordon bleu?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses that melt well, such as Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone.

Q: How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking the breading?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make the chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken cordon bleu up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.