What To Know
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on top of the mustard-coated chicken.
- Return the breaded chicken to the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
- Instead of butterflying the chicken breasts, make a pocket in the center and stuff it with the cheese and ham mixture.
Indulge in the culinary delight of chicken cordon bleu, a classic dish that combines juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy ham. While traditionally prepared in the oven, many grill enthusiasts wonder if this culinary masterpiece can also be grilled to perfection. The answer is a resounding yes! This blog post will delve into the art of grilling chicken cordon bleu, providing step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound)
- Thinly sliced Swiss cheese (8 ounces)
- Thinly sliced ham (8 ounces)
- Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons)
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup)
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, leaving a hinge at one end. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
2. Season the Chicken: Generously season the inside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the seasoned surface.
3. Layer the Fillings: Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on top of the mustard-coated chicken.
4. Fold and Secure: Fold the chicken over the fillings and press down firmly to seal the edges. Secure the chicken with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken cordon bleu on the preheated grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs with any remaining seasonings. Dip the grilled chicken into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
8. Grill Again: Return the breaded chicken to the grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Grilling Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
- For a crispy crust, use a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- If you don’t have toothpicks or kitchen twine, you can use aluminum foil to wrap around the chicken and secure it.
- Serve the grilled chicken cordon bleu immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations on Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Skewers: Cut the chicken breasts into small pieces and skewer them with the cheese and ham. Grill the skewers for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
- Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu: Instead of butterflying the chicken breasts, make a pocket in the center and stuff it with the cheese and ham mixture. Grill the stuffed chicken breasts for a more substantial meal.
- Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Cordon Bleu: Wrap the grilled chicken cordon bleu with bacon and grill until the bacon is crispy. This variation adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Healthier Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu
- Use lean chicken breasts to reduce the fat content.
- Substitute low-fat Swiss cheese for the regular version.
- Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs instead of white breadcrumbs.
- Grill the chicken on a non-stick grill pan to avoid using excess oil.
Conclusion: Grilling Chicken Cordon Bleu with Confidence
Grilling chicken cordon bleu is a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. By following the step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations provided in this blog post, you can create a flavorful, juicy, and crispy dish that rivals the traditional oven-baked version. So, fire up your grill and embrace the art of grilling chicken cordon bleu today!
FAQ
Q: How do I prevent the cheese from melting out of the chicken?
A: Secure the chicken tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine. You can also use aluminum foil to wrap around the chicken and seal it.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with grilled chicken cordon bleu?
A: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce are all great options.
Q: Can I make chicken cordon bleu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken cordon bleu and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before grilling. Bring it to room temperature before grilling.
Q: How do I store leftover grilled chicken cordon bleu?
A: Store the leftover chicken cordon bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
