Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that’s loved by many, but it can be expensive and time-consuming to make. That’s where the Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu comes in. This recipe is budget-friendly, easy to make, and just as delicious as the original. In this article, we’ll give you all the details you need to make this dish at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
- Tuck in the sides of the chicken breast and roll it up tightly.
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat in the breadcrumbs.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
One serving of Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu (1 chicken breast) contains:
- Calories: 467
- Protein: 41g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes.
Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Shallow dishes (3)
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Variations
This recipe can be customized to suit your preferences. Some variations include:
- Using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Using turkey or pork instead of chicken.
Substitutions
If you don’t have some of the ingredients on hand, you can make some substitutions:
- Ham – You can use prosciutto or bacon instead of ham.
- Swiss Cheese – You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone.
- Vegetable Oil – You can use any type of oil that has a high smoke point, such as canola or grapeseed oil.
Storage
Leftover Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly so that they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin or a heavy pan to pound the chicken breasts.
Notes
This recipe serves 4 people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook them.
Final Thoughts
The Perfect Poor Man’s Chicken Cordon Bleu is a great way to enjoy a classic dish without breaking the bank. It’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think!