What goes well with chicken cordon bleu? - Chef's Resource (2024)

Chicken cordon bleu, a classic French dish, consists of tender chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and lightly fried until golden and crispy. This delectable entrée offers a combination of flavors and textures that are hard to resist. However, to truly elevate the dish, you need to consider what goes well with chicken cordon bleu as accompaniments. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, here are some delightful additions to make your chicken cordon bleu shine.

1. Mashed Potatoes:

One of the most favored sides to serve alongside chicken cordon bleu is creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth and buttery texture of the potatoes complements the crispy exterior and juicy chicken inside.

2. Roasted Vegetables:

Roasting a medley of colorful vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, adds a vibrant and flavorful element to your meal. The roasted veggies provide a great contrast to the richness of the chicken and bring freshness to the plate.

3. Steamed Asparagus:

Tender and slightly crisp, steamed asparagus is an elegant choice to accompany chicken cordon bleu. Its mild flavors blend well with the richness of the dish, creating a well-balanced plate.

4. Salad:

A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the indulgent flavors of chicken cordon bleu. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy dressing to enhance the overall dining experience.

5. Rice Pilaf:

The delicate flavors of rice pilaf, made with sautéed onions and fragrant herbs, make it a great accompaniment to chicken cordon bleu. The fluffy texture of the rice complements the crunchy chicken crust.

6. Garlic Bread:

If you’re looking for a more casual and comforting side, garlic bread is an excellent choice. The aromatic flavors of garlic and butter add an extra layer of indulgence to the meal.

7. Ratatouille:

This traditional French vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes brings a burst of flavors to the plate and pairs wonderfully with chicken cordon bleu.

8. Couscous:

Light and fluffy, couscous is a great side dish that absorbs the flavors of the chicken cordon bleu. Season it with herbs, lemon zest, or sautéed vegetables for added depth.

9. Sautéed Green Beans:

Tender-crisp green beans lightly sautéed in olive oil and garlic provide a fresh and nutritious side to complement the richness of the dish.

10. Scalloped Potatoes:

An indulgent alternative to mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes layered with cream and cheese create a creamy and savory side dish that matches well with the flavors of chicken cordon bleu.

11. Cranberry Sauce:

For a touch of sweetness and tanginess, consider pairing your chicken cordon bleu with cranberry sauce. The acidity of the sauce balances out the richness of the dish.

12. Rice Noodles:

For an Asian-inspired twist, serve your chicken cordon bleu with stir-fried rice noodles. The noodles’ delicate texture and the aromatic flavors will complement the dish harmoniously.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of cheese for stuffing?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or even mozzarella to suit your taste preference.

2. Can I bake chicken cordon bleu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken cordon bleu in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until it is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

3. Can I make chicken cordon bleu in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken cordon bleu up until the breading step and refrigerate it. Then, fry or bake it just before serving.

4. Is chicken cordon bleu a low-calorie dish?

Chicken cordon bleu is a rich and indulgent dish, so it is not considered low-calorie. However, you can make lighter versions by using leaner cuts of chicken or opting for baking instead of frying.

5. Can I make a vegetarian version of cordon bleu?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a meat substitute like seitan or tofu, and use vegetarian ham and cheese alternatives for stuffing.

6. Is chicken cordon bleu gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.

7. What herbs can I use to season the chicken?

Common herbs for seasoning chicken cordon bleu include thyme, parsley, and tarragon. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs or a combination to enhance the flavors.

8. Can I make chicken cordon bleu with a sauce?

While the dish is traditionally served without sauce, you can accompany it with a simple white wine sauce or mushroom cream sauce.

9. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Chicken cordon bleu typically uses chicken breast, but you can adapt the recipe to use pork tenderloin or veal instead.

10. Can I freeze chicken cordon bleu?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken cordon bleu for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing.

11. Can I add additional fillings to the chicken?

Certainly! Along with ham and cheese, you can incorporate other fillings like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even sliced mushrooms to add extra flavor and texture.

12. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, you can double coat the chicken breasts by dipping them in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs twice before frying or baking to achieve a golden crust.