Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 4 slices deli Swiss cheese
• 4 slices deli ham
• 2 toothpicks
• cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure everything is ready.
2. Place a chicken breast on a flat work surface. Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the middle of the chicken breast, but dont cut all the way through. Open the two halves like a book, and place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap.
3. Using the smooth side of a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to a -inch thickness. Repeat the process with the second chicken breast.
4. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, according to taste.
5. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the surface of each chicken breast.
6. Top each mustard-coated breast with a slice of Swiss cheese. Then add two slices of deli ham, followed by another slice of Swiss cheese. Roll up each breast tightly and secure the roll with a toothpick.
7. In three shallow bowls, prepare the breading stations: one with the flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with a mixture of panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Preheat your air fryer to 350F (175C) while you bread the chicken. Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, ensuring its fully coated, then dip into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken roll in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
9. Arrange the breaded chicken rolls on a plate, and lightly spray with cooking spray. Let them rest for 5 minutes while the air fryer finishes preheating.
10. Place the chicken rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the chicken rolls over and spray any dry spots with additional cooking spray.
11. Continue cooking for another 8 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. To be sure, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the chicken; it should read at least 165F (74C).
12. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer, discard the toothpicks, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	32g Fat	57g Carbs	64g Protein
728	41% of Daily Value	21% of Daily Value	127% of Daily Value
Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Dietary Fiber
81% of Daily Value	84% of Daily Value	72% of Daily Value	4% of Daily Value
Total Carbs	Total Sugars	Vitamin C	Iron
57g	1g	2mg	3mg
Calcium	Potassium
637mg	466mg

This Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe brings a crispy, gooey, and savory take on the classic French dish. It features tender chicken breasts stuffed with Swiss cheese and deli ham, then breaded and air fried to perfection. With a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, this dish can be prepared quickly for a satisfying dinner for two.

History and Origins

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish that has become synonymous with French cuisine, though its exact origin is somewhat disputed. The name "Cordon Bleu" translates to "blue ribbon" in French, an allusion to the prestigious culinary school Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. The dish itself is believed to have originated in Switzerland, where it was originally made with veal instead of chicken, and was known as "Schweins Cordon Bleu." Over time, it gained popularity in France and other countries, and chicken became the preferred protein in many variations of the dish. The air fryer version of this recipe offers a healthier alternative to the traditional method, which typically involves deep frying.

Regional Features

While Chicken Cordon Bleu is widely associated with French and Swiss cuisine, it has been embraced across the world and adapted to suit various regional tastes. In the United States, it is often made with chicken as the main ingredient, whereas in Europe, veal or pork may be used. In some regions, variations include adding herbs or spices to the breading for extra flavor or substituting different types of cheese. The use of the air fryer in this recipe reflects a modern approach to cooking, providing a crisp exterior without the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier choice.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes?

Chicken Cordon Bleu shares similarities with other breaded and stuffed chicken dishes, such as Chicken Kiev and Chicken Parmesan. However, what sets it apart is the combination of ham and Swiss cheese as the stuffing, which gives it a unique flavor profile. While Chicken Kiev is typically filled with garlic butter and herbs, and Chicken Parmesan is topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella, Cordon Bleu focuses on a rich, savory filling of ham and cheese. The air fryer method used in this recipe also differentiates it from traditional preparations that involve deep frying, providing a lighter version of the dish.

Where is it Typically Served?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a popular choice for dinner parties, holidays, and special occasions due to its rich flavors and elegant presentation. It is often served alongside a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. In restaurants, it may be featured as a gourmet entree or as part of a larger French-inspired menu. Its versatility also allows it to be paired with a variety of sauces, such as bchamel or mustard sauce, to enhance the dining experience.

Interesting Facts

• The original "Cordon Bleu" dish was made with veal, but over time, chicken became the more common choice due to its affordability and availability.
• The name "Cordon Bleu" is often used to denote high-quality food or chefs, as it is linked to the prestigious French culinary school.
• While the traditional method involves deep-frying, the air fryer version is a healthier alternative that still provides a crispy texture, reducing the amount of oil used in the cooking process.
• Some modern variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu use different types of cheese, such as Gruyre, cheddar, or even goat cheese, to add new layers of flavor.

This Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe is not only a quicker and healthier version of the beloved classic but also a delicious way to enjoy the iconic flavors of French cuisine in the comfort of your home.

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