Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and classic dish that is loved by many. It is a combination of tender chicken, flavorful ham, and melted cheese. Traditionally, Chicken Cordon Bleu is made by breading and frying the chicken. However, with the rising popularity of air fryers, it is now easier than ever to make this mouthwatering dish in a healthier way. In this article, we will explore a quick and easy recipe for cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in the Air Fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Preparing the Chicken
The first step in making Chicken Cordon Bleu is to prepare the chicken breasts. You will need to butterfly the chicken breasts, which means cutting them lengthwise, but not all the way through. This will create a pocket to stuff with the ham and cheese filling.
Stuffing the Chicken
Once the chicken breasts are butterflied, it’s time to stuff them with the ham and cheese filling. Take a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese and place them inside the pocket of each chicken breast. Make sure to fold the chicken breast back over the filling to seal it inside.
Breading the Chicken
After stuffing the chicken breasts, it’s time to bread them. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.
Dipping and Coating
To coat the chicken, dip each stuffed breast into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat both sides. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture and coat it thoroughly. Press down gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the cooking basket by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the basket.
Arranging the Chicken
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the cooking basket. Make sure to leave some space between them to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cook the chicken in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).
Flipping the Chicken
Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and flip the chicken breasts to ensure that they cook evenly on both sides. This will help achieve a crispy and golden exterior.
Serving the Chicken Cordon Bleu
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Place the Chicken Cordon Bleu on a serving plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in a moist and succulent chicken.
Accompaniments
Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the flavors of the dish and add some color to the plate.
Sauces and Garnishes
To enhance the taste of the Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can serve it with a sauce of your choice. Some delicious options include a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, a tangy honey mustard sauce, or a classic hollandaise sauce. Additionally, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.
A Healthier Alternative
By cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in the air fryer, you are opting for a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-frying method. Air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This reduces the overall calorie content of the dish, making it more suitable for those watching their dietary intake.
Reduced Fat and Calories
Air fried Chicken Cordon Bleu will have significantly less fat and calories compared to its deep-fried counterpart. By eliminating the need for excessive oil, you are reducing the calorie count without compromising on taste and texture. This makes it a great option for those who want to indulge in this classic dish without the guilt.
Retaining Moisture
Another benefit of cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in the air fryer is that it helps retain the moisture of the chicken. The hot air circulation ensures that the chicken cooks evenly while staying tender and juicy. This is especially important for a dish like Chicken Cordon Bleu, where dry chicken can greatly impact the overall experience.
In conclusion, cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic dish with a healthier twist. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can achieve a crispy and golden exterior while keeping the chicken tender and flavorful on the inside. So, why not give it a try and surprise your family and friends with this delicious meal made in the air fryer?