Chicken cordon bleu is a classic French dish that combines chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. It’s breaded and fried, creating a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Despite its French name, the exact origins of chicken cordon bleu are debated. While it clearly uses ingredients popular in French cuisine, some claim it was actually invented in Switzerland or Germany and later became popular in France. Regardless of its nationality, chicken cordon bleu is enjoyed around the world today.
History and Origins
The name “chicken cordon bleu” is French and translates to “blue ribbon chicken.” This likely refers to the blue ribbon associated with the prestigious French culinary award called L’Ordre National du Mérite Agricole. Dishes considered refined and requiring advanced cooking skills were associated with this blue ribbon.
While the name is French, the actual origin of the dish is less clear. Some believe it was created in a gourmet restaurant in Switzerland in the 1940s. Others say it was invented by Swiss Roman Catholic nuns as an economical way to use up leftovers. There are also claims it was created by German immigrants living in Switzerland. The earliest known recipe appeared in a 1955 French cookbook by chef Marie-Antoine Carême.
During the 1960s and 70s, chicken cordon bleu became popular in high-end restaurants in France. It then spread through Europe and North America, eventually becoming a staple menu item in diners and cafeterias. The dish remains well-loved for its taste and convenience today.
Ingredients and Preparation
Chicken cordon bleu begins with thin cuts of chicken breast. Traditional recipes call for pounding the chicken flat before layering on other ingredients. Ham and Swiss cheese are the key components and can be pre-sliced or shredded before assembly.
The chicken is layered with the ham and cheese, then rolled up and secured with toothpicks. Next, the chicken is coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. It is then fried in oil or baked until the outside is crispy and the inside is cooked through. Some chefs choose to sauce the dish, often with a cream or wine-based sauce.
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | Provides the base and main protein |
| Ham | Adds salty, savory flavor |
| Swiss cheese | Contributes mild, nutty flavor |
| Flour | Helps coating adhere before frying |
| Egg | Also helps the coating stick |
| Breadcrumbs | Forms the crispy exterior when fried |
Regional Variations
While chicken cordon bleu is most iconically French, the dish has spawned many regional and cultural variations:
Americas
In the United States and Canada, cordon bleu is often made with breaded frozen chicken breast for convenience. Some recipes substitute ham for turkey or bacon. The cheese may also be replaced with alternatives like cheddar or mozzarella.
Italy
Italians often stuff chicken cordon bleu with prosciutto ham and mozzarella or parmesan cheese. Italian-style chicken cordon bleu is coated in a batter instead of breadcrumbs before frying.
Australia
Australians have created a version using chicken fillet stuffed with vegemite and cheese. Vegemite provides a salty, savory flavor resembling the ham in traditional cordon bleu.
Latin America
In Mexico, cordon bleu is prepared by stuffing chicken with ham and manchego or queso Oaxaca. Oaxacan recipes use local corn tortillas for the coating.
Asia
Asian chicken cordon bleu versions incorporate ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi, Thai basil, fish sauce, ube, and pandan. Popular stuffings include curry pork, five spice tofu, and preserved vegetables.
Pre-Made and Frozen Cordon Bleu
The intricate preparation required for chicken cordon bleu led to mass production of pre-made frozen varieties. Major brands like Banquet and Perdue sell breaded chicken cordon bleu breast filets stuffed with ham and cheese. Frozen pre-made versions allow busy home cooks to simply bake or fry for ease. Most retain the classic Switzerland-meets-France flavor profile.
While convenient, pre-made cordon bleu lacks the artistry of made-from-scratch. Many frozen varieties use lower quality chicken, ham, and cheese. The texture also suffers somewhat from mass production compared to fresh preparation. However, freezing is an acceptable shortcut for weeknight meals or quick entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken cordon bleu works well as an entree or hearty main dish. Traditional pairings include:
- Rice or pasta
- Potatoes such as au gratin, roasted, or mashed
- Vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or creamed spinach
- Fresh salad greens
Lighter sides balance the richness of the fried chicken. A creamy pasta, risotto, or gratin makes a satisfying base for the chicken to shine as the star.
It also does well when sliced into a sandwich or wrap. The warm chicken pairs nicely with cool lettuce, tomato, and condiments like mustard or mayo.
While chicken cordon bleu is usually served warm right after cooking, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheating retains the crunchy breading fairly well. Refrigerated leftovers also work for cold sandwiches and wraps.
Significance and Importance
Chicken cordon bleu has maintained popularity over decades thanks to its:
- Convenience – With all ingredients layered into one packet, it requires minimal prep and cooks quickly.
- Bold flavors – The ham and cheese provide savory, salty flavor that balances the mild chicken.
- Interesting textures – Crisp breading contrasts the soft chicken, ham, and melted cheese interior.
- Easy customization – Home cooks can get creative with the fillings, breading, and sauce.
It transcends cultures as a classic comfort food with mass appeal. Chicken cordon bleu appeals to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s refined enough for elegant dining yet approachable for family dinners. This versatility has made chicken cordon bleu a mainstay of home menus around the world.
Conclusion
While its exact origin is uncertain, chicken cordon bleu clearly evolved from cuisine in Switzerland, Germany, or France. The dish combines chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese to create a satisfying composite. Breading and frying the stuffed chicken provides a crisp exterior contrasting the warm, melty interior.
Chicken cordon bleu has risen from relative obscurity to global popularity over the past seven decades. Its convenience, taste, and versatility as an entree, sandwich, or appetizer contribute to its enduring status across cultures. This unfussy yet elegant dish promises to remain a dinnertime staple for years to come.