Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe With Mozzarella And Bacon A Delicious Twist

Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is a delectable variation on the traditional dish, adding a smoky and cheesy twist that elevates it to a new level of culinary delight. This recipe combines the classic components of Chicken Cordon Bleu – tender chicken breasts, savory ham, and melted cheese – with the rich flavors of mozzarella and crispy bacon. The result is a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight meal. This article will guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish, offering tips and tricks to ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon turns out perfectly every time.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon lies in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The chicken breasts provide a lean and tender base, while the ham adds a salty and savory element. Mozzarella cheese, known for its mild and milky flavor and excellent melting properties, creates a creamy and gooey interior. The addition of bacon introduces a smoky and crispy contrast, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite an experience to savor. The breadcrumb coating, often seasoned with herbs and spices, provides a crunchy exterior that complements the soft and cheesy filling. This combination of ingredients ensures that each component plays a crucial role in delivering a balanced and satisfying dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create this culinary masterpiece, you'll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which form the foundation of the dish. Look for plump and evenly sized breasts to ensure consistent cooking. Next, you'll need sliced ham, preferably a high-quality variety that adds a rich, savory flavor. For the cheese, fresh mozzarella is the star, offering a creamy and mild taste that melts beautifully. Of course, bacon is essential for that smoky, crispy element; choose your favorite type, whether it's thick-cut or thinly sliced. To create the crispy coating, you'll need breadcrumbs, which can be either plain or seasoned depending on your preference. Eggs will act as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. Additionally, you'll need flour for dredging, as well as butter and oil for cooking. Finally, a selection of herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredient List:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 slices of ham
• 8 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon might seem like a complex undertaking, but with a step-by-step guide, it becomes a manageable and rewarding culinary project. The process involves preparing the chicken breasts, assembling the fillings, creating the breadcrumb coating, and then cooking the dish to golden perfection. Each step is crucial in achieving the desired result: a tender, flavorful chicken breast with a gooey, cheesy interior and a crispy exterior. This detailed guide will walk you through each stage, providing helpful tips and techniques to ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is a success.

Preparing the Chicken

The first step in creating Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is to prepare the chicken breasts. This involves pounding them to an even thickness, which ensures they cook uniformly and remain tender. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness. Be careful not to over-pound, as this can make the chicken tough. Once pounded, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This seasoning will penetrate the chicken, adding flavor from the inside out.

Assembling the Fillings

With the chicken breasts prepared, it's time to assemble the fillings. Place two slices of ham, two slices of mozzarella cheese, and two slices of crispy bacon on top of each chicken breast. Make sure the fillings are evenly distributed to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. To secure the fillings, carefully roll up the chicken breasts, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you go. Use toothpicks to hold the rolls together; this will prevent the fillings from escaping during cooking.

Creating the Breadcrumb Coating

The breadcrumb coating is what gives Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon its signature crispy exterior. To create the coating, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour; in the second, the beaten eggs; and in the third, the breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it's fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere evenly. The breadcrumb coating should be thick and uniform, providing a satisfying crunch when cooked.

Cooking the Chicken Cordon Bleu

With the chicken rolls breaded, it's time to cook them to golden perfection. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. The combination of butter and oil provides both flavor and a higher smoke point, preventing the butter from burning. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the chicken rolls in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. Once cooked, remove the toothpicks and serve immediately.

Detailed Steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Assemble the Fillings: Place 2 ham slices, 2 mozzarella slices, and 2 bacon slices on each chicken breast. Roll up and secure with toothpicks.
3. Create the Breadcrumb Coating: Set up three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, then dip in eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken rolls for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve: Remove toothpicks and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is a resounding success, consider these helpful tips. First, using high-quality ingredients is key. The flavor of the ham, mozzarella, and bacon will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for fresh, flavorful ingredients whenever possible. Another tip is to not overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, so it's essential to cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy. Additionally, make sure the breadcrumb coating is even and thick. This will provide the perfect crispy texture and prevent the fillings from escaping during cooking. Finally, don't overcrowd the skillet. Cooking the chicken in batches allows it to brown evenly and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too low.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients make a difference.
• Don't Overcook the Chicken: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Ensure Even Breadcrumb Coating: A thick, uniform coating provides a crispy texture.
• Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook in batches for even browning.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon lies in its versatility. There are numerous variations and substitutions you can make to tailor the dish to your preferences. For example, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with provolone or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a leaner option, you can use turkey bacon or Canadian bacon instead of regular bacon. For the breadcrumb coating, you can add herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning, dried parsley, or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. If you prefer baking over pan-frying, you can bake the Chicken Cordon Bleu in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. These variations allow you to customize the dish to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Variation Ideas:

• Cheese Substitutions: Try provolone or Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella.
• Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or Canadian bacon for a leaner option.
• Herb and Spice Additions: Enhance the breadcrumb coating with Italian seasoning, dried parsley, or Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Baking Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It pairs well with a range of side dishes, from classic accompaniments to more creative options. For a traditional pairing, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy chicken, while roasted vegetables add a healthy and flavorful element. Another excellent option is a light salad, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a Caesar salad works well. You can also serve it with pasta, such as fettuccine Alfredo or a lemon-butter pasta, for a more substantial meal. The Chicken Cordon Bleu can also be sliced and served on a sandwich or slider for a delicious and satisfying lunch or appetizer. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a meal that suits any occasion.

Serving Ideas:

• Classic Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Refreshing Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or Caesar salad.
• Pasta Dishes: Serve with fettuccine Alfredo or lemon-butter pasta.
• Sandwiches and Sliders: Slice and serve on a sandwich or slider.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon is a delightful twist on a classic recipe, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, creamy mozzarella, and crispy bacon creates a dish that is both satisfying and impressive. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. By following the step-by-step instructions and incorporating the tips and variations provided, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients, put on your chef's hat, and get ready to enjoy the culinary masterpiece that is Chicken Cordon Bleu with mozzarella and bacon.