Fred Meyer chicken cordon bleu has been a staple in many American households, especially those who have had the pleasure of shopping at Fred Meyer stores. This classic dish, which consists of chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. In this article, we will delve into the world of chicken cordon bleu and provide a comprehensive guide on how to make this beloved dish at home.
Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu
Chicken cordon bleu is a dish that originated in Switzerland and was later popularized in the United States. The name “cordon bleu” is French and translates to “blue ribbon,” which is a reference to the blue ribbon awarded to dishes that are considered to be of the highest quality. The dish typically consists of chicken breasts that are stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and fried. In this article, we will focus on making a version of chicken cordon bleu that is similar to the one sold at Fred Meyer stores.
Ingredients Needed
To make Fred Meyer chicken cordon bleu, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Preparing the Chicken Breasts
Before you start assembling the chicken cordon bleu, you need to prepare the chicken breasts. To do this, lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through the breast, as you want to create a pocket that can hold the ham and cheese filling. Once you have made the incision, use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too thick.
Assembling the Chicken Cordon Bleu
Now that you have prepared the chicken breasts, it’s time to assemble the chicken cordon bleu. To do this, place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese inside each chicken breast pocket. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges of the pocket to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking. Once you have placed the filling inside the chicken breast, close the pocket and secure it with toothpicks if necessary.
Breading the Chicken Cordon Bleu
After assembling the chicken cordon bleu, it’s time to bread it. To do this, dip each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the floured chicken breast in the beaten eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Finally, roll the egg-coated chicken breast in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the chicken to help them stick. Place the breaded chicken cordon bleu on a plate or tray and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to set.
Cooking the Chicken Cordon Bleu
There are several ways to cook chicken cordon bleu, including baking, grilling, and frying. In this article, we will focus on frying the chicken cordon bleu, as this is the method used by Fred Meyer to make their famous dish. To fry the chicken cordon bleu, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cordon bleu to the skillet and fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken cordon bleu is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serving the Chicken Cordon Bleu
Finally, it’s time to serve the chicken cordon bleu. To do this, slice the cooked chicken cordon bleu in half and serve it hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a salad. You can also serve the chicken cordon bleu with a dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing.
Tips and Variations
While the recipe for chicken cordon bleu is straightforward, there are several tips and variations you can try to make the dish more interesting. For example, <strong você can add some diced onions or mushrooms to the ham and cheese filling for extra flavor. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to give the dish a unique twist. Additionally, you can try baking the chicken cordon bleu instead of frying it, which can be a healthier and lower-calorie option.
Conclusion
Making Fred Meyer chicken cordon bleu at home is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and a little bit of practice, you can create a dish that is similar to the one sold at Fred Meyer stores. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh chicken breasts and real Swiss cheese, to get the best flavor and texture. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and breading techniques to make the dish your own. With these tips and variations, you can enjoy delicious chicken cordon bleu at home without having to go to the store.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu and how did it originate?
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a popular dish that consists of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried. The origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Switzerland in the 1960s. The name “Cordon Bleu” is French, meaning “blue ribbon,” which was a symbol of excellence and quality. This dish was likely created as a variation of the traditional Swiss dish, Chicken Valaisanne, which consisted of chicken stuffed with ham and cheese.
The Fred Meyer version of Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved favorite among many, and it’s no surprise why. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breading, is a match made in heaven. By recreating this dish at home, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors and textures without having to rely on store-bought or restaurant versions. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can make your own Chicken Cordon Bleu that’s just as tasty as the original.
What ingredients do I need to make Fred Meyer Chicken Cordon Bleu?
To make Fred Meyer Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, including chicken breasts, ham, cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs. You’ll also need some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and paprika, to add flavor to the dish. Additionally, you’ll need some butter or oil for frying the chicken. It’s worth noting that you can customize the ingredients to your liking, using different types of cheese or ham, or adding other seasonings and spices to give the dish your own unique twist.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will result in the best flavor and texture. Look for fresh chicken breasts, thinly sliced ham, and a good-quality cheese that melts well, such as Swiss or cheddar. You’ll also want to use fresh breadcrumbs, rather than stale or packaged ones, to ensure a crispy exterior on the chicken. By using the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic version of Fred Meyer Chicken Cordon Bleu that’s sure to impress.
How do I prepare the chicken breasts for stuffing?
To prepare the chicken breasts for stuffing, you’ll need to butterfly them, which involves cutting them in half and flattening them out. This will allow you to stuff the chicken with the ham and cheese filling, and then fold it back over to enclose it. Start by placing the chicken breast on a flat surface, and then use a sharp knife to cut it in half, being careful not to cut all the way through. Next, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten the chicken out, making it thin and even.
Once the chicken is flattened, you can prepare the stuffing by placing a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of the chicken. Fold the chicken over the filling, and then use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure it in place. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed and the chicken is securely closed, to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking. By preparing the chicken breasts in this way, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu that’s sure to impress.
What is the best way to bread the chicken for frying?
The best way to bread the chicken for frying is to use a triple-breading method, which involves dipping the chicken in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs. This will create a crispy and golden exterior on the chicken, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Start by dipping the chicken in a shallow dish of flour, coating it evenly on all sides. Then, dip the chicken in a dish of beaten eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Finally, roll the chicken in a dish of breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
When breading the chicken, it’s essential to use the right type of breadcrumbs, as this will affect the texture and flavor of the final dish. Look for fresh breadcrumbs, rather than stale or packaged ones, and consider using panko breadcrumbs for an extra-light and crispy coating. You can also customize the breading by adding seasonings or spices to the breadcrumbs, such as paprika or garlic powder, to give the chicken extra flavor. By using the triple-breading method and the right type of breadcrumbs, you’ll be able to create a crispy and delicious exterior on your Chicken Cordon Bleu.
How do I cook the Chicken Cordon Bleu to ensure it’s cooked through and crispy?
To cook the Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll need to fry it in hot oil until it’s golden brown and crispy, and then finish it in the oven to ensure it’s cooked through. Start by heating a large skillet or frying pan with about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Then, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
When cooking the Chicken Cordon Bleu, it’s essential to use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. You can also check the chicken for doneness by cutting into it, but be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can cause the filling to escape. By frying the chicken and then finishing it in the oven, you’ll be able to create a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior, while ensuring the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. This method will also help to prevent the chicken from becoming too greasy or oily, resulting in a delicious and satisfying final dish.
Can I customize the filling or breading to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize the filling or breading to suit your tastes by using different types of cheese, ham, or seasonings. For example, you could use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, or add some diced onions or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor. You could also use different types of ham, such as prosciutto or serrano ham, for a more nuanced flavor. Additionally, you could customize the breading by using different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs, or adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
When customizing the filling or breading, be sure to consider the overall flavor and texture of the dish, and make sure the ingredients you choose complement each other well. You could also experiment with different seasonings or spices, such as paprika or garlic powder, to add extra flavor to the dish. By customizing the filling or breading, you’ll be able to create a unique and delicious version of Chicken Cordon Bleu that suits your tastes and preferences. This will also allow you to get creative and have fun with the recipe, trying out new ingredients and flavor combinations to create a truly personalized dish.
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time and freeze it for later use?
Yes, you can make Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time and freeze it for later use, which is a great way to prepare a meal in advance and save time during the week. To freeze the chicken, prepare it up to the point of cooking, and then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the baking sheet in the freezer and let the chicken freeze for about 30 minutes, or until it’s frozen solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to cook the frozen chicken, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then cook it as directed. You can also cook the frozen chicken directly from the freezer, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep in mind that freezing the chicken may affect the texture and flavor slightly, so it’s best to freeze it before breading and cooking. By making Chicken Cordon Bleu ahead of time and freezing it, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and convenient meal whenever you want, without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.