Spanish-style Cordon Bleu

Ingredients

While the Swiss Cordon Bleu traditionally uses Swiss cheese and ham, the Spanish adaptation incorporates Spanish ingredients to add a unique twist. The Spanish-style Cordon Bleu includes flavorsome Spanish ham, such as Serrano or Iberico, and a blend of Spanish cheeses like Manchego or Mahón. The breading may also be seasoned with Spanish spices to enhance the dish's Spanish flair. We alse have the original recipe for Cordon Bleu, so you can check it out.

• 4 chicken breasts 4 chicken breasts
• 8 slices of Spanish ham (Serrano or Iberico) 8 slices of Spanish ham (Serrano or Iberico)
• 4 slices of Spanish cheese (Manchego or Mahón) 4 slices of Spanish cheese (Manchego or Mahón)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying Olive oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 22g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, but not all the way through, to create a pocket.
3. 3.
   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. 4.
   Place 2 slices of Spanish ham and 1 slice of Spanish cheese inside each chicken breast pocket.
5. 5.
   Close the pocket and secure it with toothpicks.
6. 6.
   Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs.
7. 7.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides.
9. 9.
   Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
10. 10.
    Remove the toothpicks before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Pound them slightly to ensure even thickness for better cooking.
• Spanish ham — Choose high-quality Serrano or Iberico ham for the best flavor.
• Spanish cheese — Opt for aged Manchego or Mahón cheese for a rich and nutty taste.
• Breadcrumbs — You can use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
• Olive oil — Use extra virgin olive oil for a touch of Spanish authenticity.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of Spanish smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs.
• If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts instead of frying them.
• Serve the Spanish-style Cordon Bleu with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Pair this dish with a refreshing Spanish salad, such as a tomato and cucumber salad with sherry vinaigrette.
• Experiment with different Spanish cheeses and hams to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Serving advice

Serve the Spanish-style Cordon Bleu hot, accompanied by a side dish and a fresh salad. Remove the toothpicks before serving to ensure a safe dining experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh parsley or a slice of lemon. The golden-brown color of the breaded chicken breasts will be visually appealing against the vibrant green or yellow accents.