Chicken cordon bleu reinvented: the pros and cons of using provolone cheese

The answer is a resounding yes! Provolone cheese is an excellent choice for chicken cordon bleu. Its mild, nutty flavor complements the chicken and ham perfectly, while its gooey texture adds a touch of richness to the dish.

What is Provolone Cheese?

Provolone is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It originated in southern Italy and is known for its pale yellow color and slightly salty flavor. Provolone is available in various ages, from young to aged, each with its own unique flavor profile.

Why Use Provolone Cheese in Chicken Cordon Bleu?

There are several reasons why provolone cheese is a great choice for chicken cordon bleu:

• Mild Flavor: Provolone’s mild flavor allows the other ingredients in the dish to shine through.
• Gooey Texture: Provolone melts beautifully, creating a gooey, flavorful filling.
• Versatility: Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a great choice for those who like to experiment with different flavors.

How to Use Provolone Cheese in Chicken Cordon Bleu

Using provolone cheese in chicken cordon bleu is easy. Simply follow these steps:

1. Slice the provolone cheese into thin slices.
2. Place a slice of provolone cheese on the chicken breast.
3. Top with a slice of ham.
4. Roll up the chicken breast, securing it with toothpicks.
5. Dredge the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
6. Fry or bake the chicken until golden brown.

Other Cheese Options for Chicken Cordon Bleu

While provolone is an excellent choice for chicken cordon bleu, there are other cheeses that can also be used. Some popular options include:

• Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is a classic choice for chicken cordon bleu. Its nutty flavor and gooey texture complement the chicken and ham perfectly.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is a good choice for those who prefer a more mild flavor. It melts beautifully and creates a creamy filling.
• Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a good choice for those who want a more flavorful filling. It has a sharp, tangy flavor that adds a nice kick to the dish.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu

Here are some tips for making the perfect chicken cordon bleu:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
• Slice the cheese and ham thinly so that they melt evenly.
• Roll up the chicken breasts tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Dredge the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.
• Fry or bake the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.

Final Note: Provolone’s Culinary Versatility

Provolone cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including chicken cordon bleu. Its mild flavor, gooey texture, and versatility make it an excellent choice for this classic dish. So next time you’re making chicken cordon bleu, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone is a great place to start!

Questions You May Have

Q: What is the best way to slice provolone cheese for chicken cordon bleu?
A: Use a sharp knife to slice the cheese into thin, even slices.

Q: Can I use pre-sliced provolone cheese?
A: Yes, you can use pre-sliced provolone cheese, but it may not melt as evenly as freshly sliced cheese.

Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out of the chicken cordon bleu?
A: Roll up the chicken breasts tightly and secure them with toothpicks.

Q: What is the best way to cook chicken cordon bleu?
A: You can either fry or bake chicken cordon bleu. Frying will give you a crispy crust, while baking will give you a more tender result.

Q: How long do I cook chicken cordon bleu?
A: Cook chicken cordon bleu until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and gooey. This will take about 15-20 minutes in the oven or 5-7 minutes in the fryer.