Cordon bleu

Cordon Bleu is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of chicken, smoked ham, and melted cheese, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special event. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that you can customize according to your preferences. Here’s how to prepare a perfect Cordon Bleu, step by step.

Ingredients (for 2 servings):
- 2 pieces of chicken breast
- 1 egg
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 slices of ham
- 3 slices of cheese
- Oil for frying (preferably sunflower or olive oil)

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Start by slicing each piece of chicken breast horizontally to obtain two thin fillets. Use a meat mallet to gently pound each fillet until it is flat and even. This step not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also results in a more tender texture.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken fillets. This is an essential step to add flavor to your dish.

3. Adding the filling: Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each chicken fillet. Make sure the filling is well distributed, leaving a small space at the edges to avoid cheese leaking during frying.

4. Folding: Fold each chicken fillet in half so that the filling is covered. You can use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary, to keep the filling inside.

5. Beating the egg: In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.

6. Dipping in breadcrumbs: Take each filled chicken fillet and dip it in the beaten egg, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is evenly coated. The breadcrumbs will add a golden and crispy crust, perfect for this dish.

7. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken fillets and fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden and crispy. Make sure the oil temperature is not too high to avoid burning the breadcrumbs before the chicken is fully cooked.

8. Finishing: Once the Cordon Bleu is fried, remove it onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting, to retain juiciness.

Serving: You can serve Cordon Bleu alongside a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables. A slice of lemon on the plate can add a refreshing touch and a pleasant contrast to the richness of the melted cheese.

Variation suggestions: Instead of ham, you can use prosciutto or bacon for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or brie, to add a unique twist.

This Cordon Bleu is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for any occasion. With every bite, you will discover the savory combination of tender meat, melted cheese, and smoked ham, which will delight both you and your loved ones.