Chicken Cordon Bleu: What Cheeses Make The Cut?

Chicken cordon bleu is a dish that originated in Switzerland in the 1940s and became popular across Europe after World War II. It is made by stuffing chicken breasts with ham and cheese, rolling them up, coating them in breadcrumbs, and then pan-frying or baking them. The most popular type of cheese used in chicken cordon bleu is Swiss cheese, but other varieties such as Gruyere, smoked gouda, provolone, and mozzarella can also be used.

Chicken cordon bleu is made with Swiss cheese

Chicken cordon bleu is a dish that originated in Switzerland in the 1940s and became popular across Europe and the US after WWII. It is made with Swiss cheese, along with ham and chicken. The chicken breasts are pounded thin and then stuffed with the cheese and ham before being rolled up and coated in breadcrumbs. The dish is then baked in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

The Swiss cheese in chicken cordon bleu is a key ingredient that gives the dish its signature flavour. It is known for its rich, nutty taste and its ability to melt easily, making it perfect for this type of recipe. The cheese is layered with the ham and chicken, creating a delicious and indulgent combination.

While the classic recipe calls for Swiss cheese, some variations do exist. For example, some recipes include a combination of Swiss and provolone cheese, or even a third type of cheese such as creamy garlic and herb laughing cow cheese. These additions can give the dish an extra burst of flavour and make it even more indulgent.

Chicken cordon bleu is a simple yet impressive dish that can be made ahead of time and served with a variety of sides. The Swiss cheese is an important component that helps to create the classic flavour profile that has made this dish so popular around the world.

Whether you stick to the traditional Swiss cheese or experiment with different combinations, the key to a delicious chicken cordon bleu is in the cheese!

Gruyere is a popular alternative

Chicken cordon bleu is a dish that originated in Switzerland in the 1940s and became popular across Europe and the US after WWII. It is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, deli ham, and Swiss cheese, all dipped in a crispy coating and pan-fried.

While Swiss cheese is the most commonly used variety, some recipes call for a combination of Swiss and provolone. Others suggest adding creamy garlic and herb cheese for an extra burst of flavour. However, Gruyere is a popular alternative.

Gruyere cheese is a fantastic option for chicken cordon bleu because of its rich, nutty flavour and excellent melting ability. It pairs beautifully with the salty prosciutto, elevating the classic dish to a restaurant-worthy meal. The saltiness of the prosciutto and the nuttiness of the Gruyere create a flavour profile that is sure to impress.

When making chicken cordon bleu with Gruyere, it is important to note that the cheese is not as soft and flexible as Swiss cheese. This can make it a bit more challenging to roll up the chicken, but it also helps the rolled-up chicken stay together during the breading process.

In addition to the type of cheese, another variation to consider is the breading. While traditional recipes call for regular breadcrumbs, you can experiment with flavoured croutons, crushed cornflakes, or Panko for a unique texture and taste.

Provolone is also used

Chicken cordon bleu is a dish that originated in Switzerland in the 1940s and became popular across Europe after World War II. It is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, deli ham, and Swiss cheese, all dipped in a crispy coating and pan-fried. The chicken is flattened, layered with ham and cheese, rolled up, and then coated in breadcrumbs before being cooked.

While Swiss cheese is the most commonly used type of cheese in chicken cordon bleu, some variations of the dish use different types of cheese to add a twist to the classic recipe. One such variation includes the use of provolone cheese. Provolone is a type of Italian cheese that has a mild flavour and a semi-soft texture. It is often used as a melting cheese and can add a creamy and slightly nutty taste to the dish.

In one recipe, the chicken cordon bleu is made with both provolone and Swiss cheese, along with a third type of cheese, such as creamy garlic and herb laughing cow cheese, to add an extra burst of flavour. The chicken is flattened and then layered with provolone, Swiss cheese, and ham, followed by another layer of cheese and ham. The laughing cow cheese is spread on top of the last layer of ham before the chicken is rolled up and secured with toothpicks.

Another variation of the dish includes using prosciutto instead of ham, along with provolone and Swiss cheese. The prosciutto adds a salty flavour to the dish, while the provolone melts and adds a creamy texture. This combination of prosciutto and provolone creates a more sophisticated and "high-brow" version of the classic chicken cordon bleu.

The use of provolone in chicken cordon bleu adds a unique flavour and texture to the dish, making it a popular choice for those who want to add a twist to the traditional recipe. Whether used on its own or in combination with other cheeses, provolone can enhance the taste and overall dining experience of this classic Swiss dish.

Cream cheese is an option

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic Swiss dish that has become popular worldwide. It is made with chicken breasts, deli ham, and cheese, all dipped in a crispy coating and pan-fried or baked. While Swiss cheese is the most commonly used cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to elevate the flavours of this dish.

Using cream cheese in chicken cordon bleu can add a rich and creamy texture to the dish. It can also help to balance out the saltiness of the ham and the nuttiness of the Swiss cheese. If you want to experiment with different types of cheese in your chicken cordon bleu, cream cheese is definitely an option worth considering. It can add a unique twist to this classic dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

In addition to cream cheese, you can also try other combinations of cheese and meat to elevate your chicken cordon bleu. For example, you can use prosciutto and gruyere, or capicola and smoked gouda. These combinations can take your dish to the next level and make it feel like a fancy restaurant meal. So, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your favourite flavour profile!

You can add garlic and herb cheese

Chicken cordon bleu is a Swiss dish that became popular across Europe after WWII. It is made with thinly pounded chicken breasts, deli ham, and cheese, all dipped in a crispy coating and pan-fried. While the classic recipe calls for Swiss cheese, you can elevate this dish by using garlic and herb cheese.

To make chicken cordon bleu with garlic and herb cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Garlic and herb cheese (such as Alouette or Boursin)
• Swiss cheese
• Ham
• Flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs or cornflakes
• Vegetable oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Other seasonings, such as paprika and garlic powder

Start by placing each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pounding it to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. You can use a meat mallet or a rolling pin for this step. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and any other desired seasonings.

Spread a layer of garlic and herb cheese on each chicken breast, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese, a slice of ham, and then another slice of Swiss cheese. Starting at the narrow end, carefully roll up the chicken as tightly as possible. Secure the roll with toothpicks if needed.

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Drench the rolled-up chicken in flour, shake off the excess, and then dip it in the egg. Finally, coat the chicken generously with breadcrumbs or cornflakes.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, or melt butter in a pan. Cook the chicken in the hot oil or butter until golden brown on all sides, turning as needed. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serve your garlic and herb cheese chicken cordon bleu with a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, rice, or couscous, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken, melted garlic and herb cheese, and salty ham!

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