Jiangsu-style Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Swiss Cordon Bleu is transformed into Jiangsu-style Stuffed Chicken Rolls by incorporating elements of Jiangsu cuisine. The original dish typically uses veal or pork, but we have substituted it with chicken, which is more commonly used in Jiangsu cuisine. Additionally, we have added a touch of Chinese spices and flavors to enhance the dish's taste and appeal to the Jiangsu palate. We alse have the original recipe for Cordon Bleu, so you can check it out.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb) 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb)
• 8 slices of cooked ham 8 slices of cooked ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (Sugar: 1g)
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
2. 2.
   Season the chicken breasts with salt, white pepper, and five-spice powder.
3. 3.
   Lay a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese on each chicken breast.
4. 4.
   Roll up the chicken breasts tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
5. 5.
   Secure the rolls with toothpicks to hold their shape.
6. 6.
   Dip each chicken roll into the beaten eggs, then coat them thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Fry the chicken rolls until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
9. 9.
   Remove the toothpicks before serving.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Pound the chicken breasts gently and evenly to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
• Breadcrumbs — Use fresh breadcrumbs or pulse stale bread in a food processor for the best texture and flavor.
• Five-spice powder — Adjust the amount of five-spice powder according to your preference for Chinese flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure the chicken rolls cook evenly, make sure they are rolled tightly and secured with toothpicks.
• For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken rolls in the oven instead of frying them.
• Experiment with different types of cheese and ham to add variety to the dish.
• Serve the chicken rolls with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili powder or Sichuan peppercorns to the breadcrumb coating.

Serving advice

Serve the Jiangsu-style Stuffed Chicken Rolls hot as a main course. Accompany them with steamed rice or noodles and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. The golden-brown crust and the melted cheese oozing out of the rolls will make for an appetizing presentation.