If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate, look no further than these Chicken Cordon Bleu Bundles! Imagine succulent chicken enveloping savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, all encased in a crispy, golden-brown crust. This French classic is not only a feast for the senses but also a fun and interactive cooking experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises to be the star of your table!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by placing each between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness, being careful not to tear the meat.
- Season both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place one slice of ham and one slice of Swiss cheese in the center of each chicken breast, ensuring they don't extend to the edges.
- Carefully roll the chicken breast around the ham and cheese, tucking in the sides to create a tight bundle. Secure each bundle with toothpicks to prevent unrolling during cooking.
- Prepare three shallow dishes for breading: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken bundle first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat completely with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken bundles in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove bundles from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Remove toothpicks before serving. Let the bundles rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pound Evenly: When flattening the chicken breasts, aim for an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. This helps prevent any dry or undercooked spots.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Seasoning the chicken before rolling it up enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Secure the Bundles: Make sure to tightly roll the chicken around the filling and use toothpicks to secure them well. This prevents any delicious ham and cheese from escaping during cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not, the chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy. A good test is to drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
- Rest Before Serving: Let the bundles rest for a few minutes after frying. This allows the cheese to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve without spilling out.
- Pairing Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve these bundles with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 160mg
