Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Traditionally, this dish is cooked in the oven or on the stove, but now there’s a quicker and more convenient way to prepare it – in an air fryer! In this article, we’ll show you how long to cook Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer, along with a delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
Preparing the Chicken Cordon Bleu
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s quickly go over how to prepare the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, taking care not to tear the meat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Next, season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Lay a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on top of each chicken breast. You can use any type of ham and cheese that you prefer, but Swiss cheese is a popular choice for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. Roll up the chicken tightly around the ham and cheese, securing each breast with toothpicks to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
Cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in the Air Fryer
Now that our Chicken Cordon Bleu is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, place the Chicken Cordon Bleu in the basket, making sure to leave some space between each breast for proper air circulation.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts. On average, you’ll need to cook the Chicken Cordon Bleu for about 18 to 20 minutes. However, it’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Cooking Tips
To achieve a crispy and golden exterior, lightly coat the Chicken Cordon Bleu with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil. This will help the breadcrumb coating to brown evenly. Additionally, halfway through the cooking time, flip the Chicken Cordon Bleu to ensure even browning on both sides.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Chicken Cordon Bleu is perfectly cooked in the air fryer, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The flavors of the ham and cheese complement the chicken beautifully, creating a satisfying and delicious meal.
Variations
While the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe calls for ham and Swiss cheese, feel free to experiment with different fillings and cheeses to suit your taste. You can use bacon instead of ham for a smoky twist, or try cheddar or Gruyere cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Leftovers and Storage
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Chicken Cordon Bleu can be reheated in the air fryer or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. However, keep in mind that the texture of the breadcrumb coating may no longer be as crispy after reheating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. With just a few simple steps and the right cooking time, you can achieve a perfectly cooked Chicken Cordon Bleu with a crispy breadcrumb coating. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and savor the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty cheese all in one delicious bite?