Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish made of chicken breast, ham, and cheese. It is a delicious and hearty meal that is popular all over the world. However, what makes this dish truly special is the sauce that is served with it. Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce is a rich and creamy sauce that complements the flavors of the chicken, ham, and cheese perfectly.
The sauce is usually made with a combination of heavy cream, Dijon mustard, white wine, and chicken broth. Some variations of the sauce also include garlic, shallots, and herbs like thyme and parsley. The sauce is then simmered until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy. It is then drizzled over the chicken cordon bleu to add an extra layer of flavor and richness to the dish.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce is a rich and creamy sauce that complements the flavors of the chicken, ham, and cheese perfectly.
- The sauce is usually made with a combination of heavy cream, Dijon mustard, white wine, and chicken broth.
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce is then simmered until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
History of Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce
Origins
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish that originated in the 1940s. The dish consists of chicken breast that is pounded thin, rolled around ham and cheese, and then breaded and fried. While the origins of the sauce are less clear, it is believed that it was created as a way to add more flavor to the dish.
According to Julee Ho Media, the origin of chicken cordon bleu likely came from a dish called veal kiev, which came about in Paris circa the late 1840s. The dish called for veal dredged in breadcrumbs and fried. It was then adapted in Moscow where veal was swapped for chicken.
Evolution
Over time, the recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu has evolved, and so has the sauce. Today, there are many different variations of the dish and the sauce.
One popular version of the sauce is a Dijon cream sauce, which is made by combining butter, garlic, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. This sauce is rich and creamy, with a tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken and ham.
Another version of the sauce is a white wine sauce, which is made by deglazing the pan with white wine and then adding chicken broth, heavy cream, and herbs. This sauce is lighter than the Dijon cream sauce, but still adds a delicious flavor to the dish.
In conclusion, the history of Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce is closely tied to the history of the dish itself. While the origins of the sauce are unclear, it has evolved over time to become an essential part of the dish. Whether you prefer a creamy Dijon sauce or a light white wine sauce, there is no denying that Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients and Variations
Classic Ingredients
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish made with chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. The dish is often served with a creamy sauce that complements the flavors of the chicken, ham, and cheese. The classic ingredients for the sauce include butter, chicken broth, and cornstarch.
However, there are many variations of the classic recipe that use different ingredients for the sauce. Some recipes call for heavy cream instead of chicken broth, while others use white wine or Dijon mustard to add flavor to the sauce.
Modern Twists
Modern twists on the classic recipe often include creative variations of the sauce. For example, some recipes use Parmesan cheese, thyme, and milk to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Others use spicy brown mustard or honey mustard to give the sauce a tangy kick.
Some recipes even use non-dairy milk or cream alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. For instance, a recipe from Evolving Table suggests using a plant-based milk and a gluten-free flour blend to make the sauce.
Overall, the sauce for Chicken Cordon Bleu is a versatile and customizable component of the dish. Whether you prefer the classic buttery sauce or a modern twist with unique ingredients, there is a sauce recipe out there for everyone.
Preparation Techniques
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Basic Steps
Making chicken cordon bleu sauce is not difficult and requires only a few basic steps. The first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients, which typically include butter, flour, milk or cream, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or basil.
Once the ingredients are assembled, the butter is melted in a saucepan over medium heat. Flour is then whisked in to create a roux, which is cooked for a few minutes until it turns golden brown. Next, milk or cream is added gradually while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. The sauce is then brought to a simmer and left to cook until it thickens to the desired consistency. Finally, seasonings are added to taste.
Advanced Tips
For those who want to take their chicken cordon bleu sauce to the next level, there are several advanced techniques that can be employed. One such technique involves using a combination of milk and chicken stock instead of just milk or cream. This can add depth and complexity to the flavor of the sauce.
Another technique is to add a splash of white wine or dry sherry to the sauce, which can help to balance out the richness of the cream and butter. However, it is important to use only a small amount of alcohol to avoid overpowering the other flavors in the sauce.
Finally, fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be added to the sauce just before serving to give it a burst of flavor and freshness. These herbs can be finely chopped and stirred into the sauce, or they can be used as a garnish on top of the finished dish.
Overall, making chicken cordon bleu sauce is a simple process that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. By following these basic steps and incorporating some advanced techniques, anyone can create a delicious and flavorful sauce that will elevate their chicken cordon bleu to the next level.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving chicken cordon bleu, the sauce you choose can make all the difference. Here are some traditional and innovative pairing suggestions to elevate your chicken cordon bleu experience.
Traditional Pairings
Some classic sauces that pair well with chicken cordon bleu are béarnaise sauce, hollandaise sauce, and red wine reduction. These sauces are rich and creamy, complementing the crispy exterior and the tender chicken and ham filling. Béarnaise sauce is a classic French sauce made with egg yolks, butter, shallots, tarragon, and white wine vinegar. Hollandaise sauce is another French sauce made with egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice. Red wine reduction is a sauce made by simmering red wine with shallots, garlic, and herbs until it thickens and intensifies in flavor.
Aside from sauces, chicken cordon bleu also pairs well with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and roasted vegetables. These sides provide a contrasting texture and flavor to the rich and savory chicken cordon bleu.
Innovative Combinations
For those looking to try something new, there are plenty of innovative sauce and side combinations that can complement chicken cordon bleu. One example is a dijon sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and dijon mustard. This tangy sauce provides a sharp contrast to the rich and savory chicken cordon bleu. Another innovative pairing is a side of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. The sweetness of the potatoes and the bitterness of the sprouts provide a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the chicken cordon bleu.
In summary, there are many traditional and innovative pairing options for chicken cordon bleu. Whether you choose a classic sauce or an innovative side, the right pairing can take your chicken cordon bleu experience to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the ingredients for a classic cordon bleu sauce?
A classic cordon bleu sauce is made with a combination of heavy cream, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and white wine. Some recipes may also include garlic, shallots, and herbs such as thyme and tarragon.
How can I make a cordon bleu sauce using cream cheese?
To make a cordon bleu sauce using cream cheese, you can substitute the heavy cream in the classic recipe with cream cheese. Melt the cream cheese in a saucepan over low heat, then add chicken broth, white wine, Dijon mustard, garlic, and shallots. Whisk until smooth and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Is it possible to prepare a cordon bleu sauce without using mustard?
Yes, it is possible to prepare a cordon bleu sauce without using mustard. Simply omit the mustard and add more chicken broth or white wine to the sauce for a milder flavor.
What variations of cordon bleu sauce can be made with sour cream?
Sour cream can be used to add a tangy flavor to cordon bleu sauce. One variation is to replace heavy cream with sour cream and add Dijon mustard, chicken broth, white wine, garlic, and shallots. Another option is to mix sour cream with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs to create a creamy dip for chicken cordon bleu.
Can you suggest a Parmesan sauce recipe for chicken cordon bleu?
To make a Parmesan sauce for chicken cordon bleu, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, then add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Add salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary to taste.
What are some dairy-free alternatives for cordon bleu sauce?
For a dairy-free alternative to cordon bleu sauce, you can use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Simply combine the milk with chicken broth, white wine, Dijon mustard, garlic, and shallots and simmer until thickened. You can also add cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce if needed.