Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

A Savory Symphony of Flavors

INTRODUCTION: Indulge in the rich, buttery essence of Switzerland with our Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe, a masterful union of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese. This iconic dish, named after the prestigious culinary order, showcases a delicate balance of flavors and textures, as chicken breasts are stuffed with a decadent ham and cheese filling, then breaded and baked to a golden, crispy perfection. With its comforting, satisfying flavors and elegant presentation, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a culinary masterpiece perfect for special occasions or sophisticated dinner parties.

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 4 slices ham (about 1/4 inch thick)

- 4 slices Swiss cheese (about 1/4 inch thick)

- 1/4 cup butter, softened

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, mustard, and thyme.

3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket.

4. Stuff each chicken breast with a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese.

5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.

6. Dip each stuffed chicken breast in flour, then egg wash, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

8. Remove toothpicks and garnish with parsley if desired.

Note: You can also use prosciutto or serrano ham instead of regular ham for a more authentic flavor.

Accurate measurements ensure that your Chicken Cordon Bleu turns out flavorful and delicious. Enjoy!

Let me know if you'd like any variations or substitutions!

Here is an approximate calorie chart for a serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu (assuming 4 servings total):

Per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast): 

- Calories: 420-460

- Protein: 40-45g

    - Chicken breast: 30-35g

    - Ham: 5-6g

    - Swiss cheese: 5-6g

- Fat: 20-25g

    - Butter: 10-12g

    - Ham: 3-4g

    - Swiss cheese: 5-6g

- Carbohydrates: 10-12g

    - Flour: 2-3g

    - Egg wash: 1-2g

- Fiber: 0-1g

- Cholesterol: 80-100mg

- Sodium: 450-550mg

- Sugar: 1-2g

Vitamins and Minerals:

- Vitamin A: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Vitamin C: 20-25% of the DV

- Calcium: 15-20% of the DV

- Iron: 20-25% of the DV

- Potassium: 25-30% of the DV

Please note that this is an estimate, as exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and measurements. Additionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu can vary in ingredients and portion sizes, affecting calorie counts. This chart serves as an approximate guide.

Keep in mind that Chicken Cordon Bleu is a rich and flavorful dish, with a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Enjoy in moderation!

Note: If you're using different types of protein or adding other ingredients, the calorie count may vary. Be sure to adjust the chart accordingly.