I can hardly contain my excitement as I share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus! This dish combines the elegance of classic French cuisine with the simple joy of home-cooked goodness. I love making it because it impresses everyone from dinner guests to my picky kids, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about that delightful crunch of breadcrumbs giving way to juicy chicken filled with gooey cheese and ham. Yum!
I remember the first time I tried Chicken Cordon Bleu at a friend’s dinner party. I was completely blown away by how fancy it felt—like we had stepped into a high-end restaurant. Afterward, I needed to learn how to make it myself, and after a few tweaks and a sprinkle of love here and there, I came up with a version that also includes my favorite veggie, asparagus. The bright-green spears add a lovely freshness, and they pair so well with the rich flavors of the chicken. So, let’s dive right in and tackle this delicious dish together!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
Ham: Classic Cordon Bleu is made with Swiss cheese and ham. I love using thinly sliced Black Forest ham for its rich flavor, but feel free to use your favorite type!
Swiss Cheese: Melty Swiss cheese is the perfect counterpart to the savory ham. Gruyère cheese is an excellent alternative for a fancier twist!
Breadcrumbs: I like to use seasoned panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating, but regular breadcrumbs will work too if that’s what you have on hand.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is lightly steamed or roasted and adds a burst of color and flavor to the plate, not to mention it’s packed with vitamins.
Eggs: An essential binder that helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Go for organic if you can—they tend to taste better!
Flour: A dusting of flour helps create a nice crust.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus Good for You?
Oh, the eternal question! While Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a bit indulgent, it definitely has its perks. The dish includes a proper serving of protein from the chicken and ham, which is great for muscle health and satiety. Plus, asparagus is a veggie powerhouse, loaded with folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The cheese and breading do add calories and fat, so if you’re watching those, it might be wise to enjoy this dish in moderation. I often pair it with a simple salad to balance things out and encourage everyone to eat their greens!
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4.
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 slices Black Forest ham
– 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil or cooking spray
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that lovely heat going!
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about ½ inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and become tender.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Lay two slices of ham and one slice of cheese on each chicken breast. Roll them up tightly, starting from one end.
4. Secure the chicken roll-ups with toothpicks and coat them in the flour, shaking off any excess.
5. In a bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken roll in the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
6. Place the breaded roll-ups in a greased baking dish, drizzle with a little olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
7. While the chicken is baking, prepare the asparagus. You can steam or roast it lightly with some olive oil, salt, and pepper until just tender but still crisp.
8. Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu with a delightful side of asparagus, and remove those pesky toothpicks before enjoying!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips!
– For an extra pop of flavor, consider squeezing some lemon juice over the asparagus before serving.
– You can also add some garlic powder or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs for an additional flavor boost.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack!
– This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Cordon Bleu with Asparagus! I promise, it’s one of those meals that feels special without keeping you in the kitchen all day. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some tasty memories together. Feel free to share your comments and experiences once you’ve made it—I always love hearing about your kitchen adventures! Happy cooking!
