If you're looking for a delicious and hearty meal, 5 oz (142 g) of Chicken Cordon Bleu is a great choice. Not only is it flavorful and satisfying, but it also contains only 240 calories, making it a relatively healthy option.

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French dish that typically consists of chicken breast that is pounded thin, stuffed with ham and cheese, breaded, and then pan-fried or baked. It's a dish that is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting weeknight meal. In terms of its nutritional content, a serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu typically contains around 14g of fat, 21g of protein, and 1g of carbohydrates.

In this article, we'll go over some important information about Chicken Cordon Bleu, including its ingredients, nutritional facts, preparation methods, and the best side dishes and wines to pair with it.

What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?

As mentioned earlier, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a French dish that's made by stuffing chicken breast with ham and cheese and then breaded and fried or baked until crispy. It's a dish that's often served at special occasions, but it's also a great meal for weeknights when you want something warm and comforting. The origin of the dish is a little unclear, but some believe that it was created in Switzerland and made popular by the French. Its name, which means 'blue ribbon', is thought to come from the practice of awarding a blue ribbon to the best dish at culinary competitions.

How Many Calories Does it Contain?

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a relatively low-calorie food, with a serving of 5 oz (142 g) containing approximately 240 calories. This makes it a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake but still want a satisfying and flavorful meal.

What are the Ingredients of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

The ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu typically include chicken breast, ham or prosciutto, and cheese such as gruyere or swiss. The chicken breast is pounded thin and then stuffed with the ham and cheese before being rolled and breaded. The breading can be made from a variety of ingredients, but it often includes breadcrumbs, flour, and egg.

What are the Nutritional Facts of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

In addition to being relatively low in calories, Chicken Cordon Bleu is also a good source of protein, with a serving containing around 21g. It also contains around 14g of fat, which is a moderate amount. However, it's worth noting that the dish does contain some cholesterol and sodium, so it's not the best choice for those who are trying to limit their intake of those nutrients.

How is Chicken Cordon Bleu Prepared?

Chicken Cordon Bleu can be prepared in a few different ways, depending on your preference. The most common preparation method involves pounding the chicken breast until it's thin, then layering ham and cheese on top before rolling it up and breading it. The dish can then be pan-fried or baked until golden brown and crispy. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings to give the dish a unique flavor. Some people prefer to use turkey instead of chicken, or to add in additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms.

What are the Variations of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

While the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu recipe involves stuffing the chicken breast with ham and cheese, there are plenty of variations on the dish that you can try. For example, you can swap out the ham for prosciutto, or use a different type of cheese like brie or cheddar. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to give the dish more flavor.

What Side Dishes Go Well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

There are plenty of side dishes that complement the flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Some popular options include roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also pair the dish with a simple rice pilaf or orzo pasta.

What Wines Pair Well with Chicken Cordon Bleu?

When it comes to pairing wine with Chicken Cordon Bleu, there are a few different options to consider. A light, fruity red wine like Pinot Noir can complement the dish's flavors, as can a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. You can also try pairing the dish with a sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion.

What are the Health Benefits of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

While Chicken Cordon Bleu isn't the healthiest dish out there, it does have some redeeming qualities. The dish is a good source of protein and contains a moderate amount of fat. It's also relatively low in calories compared to other comfort foods like mac and cheese or fried chicken. However, because it does contain some cholesterol and sodium, it's not the best choice for those who are trying to limit their intake of those nutrients.

What are the Serving Tips of Chicken Cordon Bleu?

When it comes to serving Chicken Cordon Bleu, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing into it, so that the cheese inside has a chance to melt and the juices have a chance to redistribute. You can also garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add some color and flavor.