Thai-style Cordon Bleu

Ingredients

While the original Swiss Cordon Bleu is typically made with ham and Swiss cheese, this Thai adaptation replaces the ham with flavorful Thai spices and herbs. The dish is also given a spicy twist by incorporating Thai chili peppers and a tangy dipping sauce. These changes infuse the dish with the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, making it a unique and exciting variation of the classic. We alse have the original recipe for Cordon Bleu, so you can check it out.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
• 4 Thai chili peppers, finely chopped 4 Thai chili peppers, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2.5g

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, so it opens like a book.
3. 3.
   Place a slice of mozzarella cheese inside each chicken breast.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, combine the chopped Thai chili peppers, cilantro, basil, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. 5.
   Spoon the Thai chili pepper mixture over the cheese in each chicken breast, then fold the chicken breast closed.
6. 6.
   Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. 8.
   Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and gooey.
9. 9.
   Serve the Thai-style Cordon Bleu hot with a side of spicy dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly sliced when butterflying to ensure even cooking.
• Thai chili peppers — Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your desired level of spiciness.
• Fish sauce — Use a high-quality fish sauce for the best flavor.
• Breadcrumbs — You can use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier coating.

Tips & Tricks

• For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken breasts instead of frying them.
• Serve the Thai-style Cordon Bleu with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Thai meal.
• If you can't find Thai chili peppers, you can substitute them with jalapenos or serrano peppers.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist on the dish.
• Make extra spicy dipping sauce by adding more Thai chili peppers or a dash of Sriracha.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-style Cordon Bleu hot, sliced into thick rounds, and drizzle the spicy dipping sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced Thai-style Cordon Bleu on a platter, placing a small bowl of the spicy dipping sauce in the center. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil over the dish for a pop of color.