Cordon bleu, a dish that originated in Switzerland, has been a staple of fine dining for decades. The traditional recipe consists of thinly sliced ham and Swiss cheese stuffed inside a chicken breast, then breaded and fried. However, with the rise of supermarket convenience foods, it’s now possible to make a delicious and easy version of cordon bleu using pre-made ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore how to make supermarket cordon bleu and provide some helpful tips and tricks along the way.
What is Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
Supermarket cordon bleu is a simplified version of the traditional dish. Instead of using fresh chicken breasts and slicing the ham and cheese, you can use pre-made chicken breasts, ham slices, and cheese slices. This makes the dish much quicker and easier to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The Benefits of Using Supermarket Ingredients
Using supermarket ingredients has several benefits. Firstly, it saves time. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen preparing the ingredients from scratch. Secondly, it’s more convenient. You can simply pick up the ingredients on your way home from work and have dinner ready in no time. Finally, it’s often cheaper than buying fresh ingredients.
A Comparison of Fresh vs. Supermarket Ingredients
| Ingredient | Fresh | Supermarket |
| — | — | — |
| Chicken Breast | $6.99/lb | $3.99/lb (pre-made) |
| Ham Slices | $4.99/lb | $2.99/pack (pre-sliced) |
| Cheese Slices | $5.99/lb | $3.99/pack (pre-sliced) |
As you can see, using supermarket ingredients can save you a significant amount of money.
How to Make Supermarket Cordon Bleu
Making supermarket cordon bleu is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients
- 1 package of pre-made chicken breasts
- 1 pack of ham slices
- 1 pack of cheese slices
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out the chicken breasts on a flat surface.
- Place a slice of ham on each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Place a slice of cheese on top of the ham.
- Fold the chicken breast over the filling to create a pocket.
- Dip the chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken breast in the egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Roll the chicken breast in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the pan.
- Fry the chicken breasts until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overfill the chicken breasts with filling, as this can make them difficult to cook evenly.
- Use a variety of cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, for a unique flavor combination.
- Add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
While the classic recipe is delicious, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
Italian-Style Cordon Bleu
- Use prosciutto instead of ham for a salty, savory flavor.
- Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a burst of flavor.
- Use mozzarella cheese instead of Swiss for a creamier texture.
Spicy Cordon Bleu
- Add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for an extra spicy flavor.
- Sprinkle some paprika on top of the chicken breasts before baking for a smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Supermarket cordon bleu is a delicious and easy twist on the classic dish. By using pre-made ingredients, you can save time and money while still enjoying a tasty and satisfying meal. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, supermarket cordon bleu is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Final Tips and Reminders
- Always cook the chicken to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
- Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find your favorite.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things – it’s all part of the fun of cooking!
What is Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
Supermarket Cordon Bleu is a creative twist on the classic dish, Cordon Bleu. It is a type of ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast that is made using ingredients easily found in most supermarkets. This dish is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting without having to spend hours in the kitchen.
The best part about Supermarket Cordon Bleu is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can use different types of cheese, ham, and even add some herbs and spices to give it an extra boost of flavor. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
What ingredients do I need to make Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
To make Supermarket Cordon Bleu, you will need a few basic ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ham, cheese, and breadcrumbs. You will also need some butter or oil for cooking, as well as some salt and pepper to season. Depending on your personal preferences, you may also want to add some additional ingredients, such as herbs or spices.
One of the best things about Supermarket Cordon Bleu is that it can be made with ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets. This means that you won’t have to spend hours searching for specialty ingredients or visiting multiple stores. Simply head to your local supermarket and pick up the ingredients you need.
How do I prepare the chicken breasts for Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
To prepare the chicken breasts for Supermarket Cordon Bleu, you will need to butterfly them. This involves cutting the breast in half lengthwise and opening it up like a book. You will then need to pound the breast thin to make it easier to roll.
Once you have butterflied and pounded the chicken breast, you can begin to assemble the dish. Simply place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese in the center of the breast, and then roll it up tightly. Make sure to secure the roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent it from coming undone during cooking.
What type of cheese is best for Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
The type of cheese that is best for Supermarket Cordon Bleu will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular options include Swiss, cheddar, and mozzarella. You can also experiment with different combinations of cheese to create a unique flavor profile.
When selecting a cheese for Supermarket Cordon Bleu, consider the melting point of the cheese. You want a cheese that will melt well and add creaminess to the dish. You should also consider the flavor profile of the cheese and how it will complement the other ingredients in the dish.
Can I make Supermarket Cordon Bleu in advance?
Yes, you can make Supermarket Cordon Bleu in advance. In fact, this dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply assemble the dish as instructed, and then refrigerate or freeze it until you are ready to cook it.
When making Supermarket Cordon Bleu in advance, make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. You should also label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long it has been stored.
How do I cook Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
To cook Supermarket Cordon Bleu, you can use a variety of methods, including baking, grilling, and pan-frying. The cooking method you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available.
Regardless of the cooking method you choose, make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You should also let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay moist.
What can I serve with Supermarket Cordon Bleu?
Supermarket Cordon Bleu can be served with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salad. You can also serve it with a sauce, such as a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy BBQ sauce.
When selecting a side dish to serve with Supermarket Cordon Bleu, consider the flavor profile of the dish and how it will complement the other ingredients. You should also consider the texture and temperature of the side dish, and how it will contrast with the chicken.