Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 shallot, minced; 1/2 cup half-and-half; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 large egg; 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup finely diced ham; 1 lb ground chicken; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs (for coating); 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating); 1 oz Swiss cheese, cubed into 12 pieces; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup half-and-half; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp lemon juice

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These Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs take everything you love about the classic dish and wrap it into a single, delicious bite. Each meatball has a crisp, golden exterior that gives way to a savory blend of ground chicken and diced ham, with a melty Swiss cheese center. The accompanying Dijon cream sauce is rich and tangy, adding the perfect finishing touch.

This dish is an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or even casual gatherings, offering the elegance of chicken cordon bleu without the fuss. Easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and utterly comforting, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Full Recipe:

1 shallot, minced
1/2 cup half-and-half
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/2 cup finely diced ham
1 lb ground chicken
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs (for coating)
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
1 oz Swiss cheese, cubed into 12 pieces
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Dijon Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup half-and-half
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp lemon juice

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the shallot, half-and-half, parsley, egg, and 1/3 cup of Italian breadcrumbs, stirring well.
Add the ham and chicken to the bowl and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until just combined.
Roll the mixture into 12 balls, pressing a cube of Swiss cheese into the center of each.
In a shallow dish, mix the remaining Italian breadcrumbs with panko. Roll each meatball in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
Place meatballs on a plate and freeze for 10 minutes to firm.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-10 minutes. Transfer to the prepared wire rack.
Bake in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 10 minutes.
For the sauce, wipe the skillet clean and melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually add the broth and half-and-half, stirring continuously. Add mustard, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in lemon juice.
Serve the meatballs drizzled with the warm Dijon cream sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4

Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs take a beloved, classic dish and transform it into a unique and convenient format. Originating from the iconic French chicken cordon bleu recipe, these meatballs are filled with familiar flavors like tender chicken, savory ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and an indulgent Dijon cream sauce. This dish combines elegance with simplicity, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or small gatherings. The meatballs are golden-baked, cheesy, and easy to serve, packing all the signature flavors into one satisfying bite. Whether you’re a long-time fan of French cuisine or new to this flavor profile, these meatballs are an inviting way to introduce rich, layered tastes into your weekly meals.

The Inspiration Behind Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs

The classic chicken cordon bleu has always been known for its rich, comforting flavor, but it can be labor-intensive. This meatball version simplifies the process while preserving the essence of the dish. Instead of rolling and breading chicken breasts, the meatballs combine ground chicken and ham with Swiss cheese nestled inside. The ease of preparation makes this recipe more accessible for home cooks, even on busy days. It’s also a perfect dish for people who enjoy the flavors of chicken cordon bleu but want a more portable or bite-sized option, ideal for parties or family-style meals. By turning it into meatballs, the recipe maintains that classic French sophistication with a practical twist.

The Science of Flavors: Chicken, Ham, and Swiss Cheese

Each ingredient in this dish plays a specific role in delivering a balanced taste profile. Ground chicken serves as the main protein, bringing a tender and mild base that lets the other ingredients shine. Ham adds a salty, smoky depth that pairs well with the delicate chicken, while the Swiss cheese provides a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that melds beautifully with both meats. When combined, these ingredients create a harmony of flavors, and the crispy coating adds a delightful texture contrast. The Dijon cream sauce finishes the dish with a touch of tanginess, enhancing the richness without overwhelming it.

The Role of Dijon Cream Sauce

The Dijon cream sauce is integral to the full experience of chicken cordon bleu meatballs. Its smooth, velvety texture complements the meatballs’ crisp coating and cheesy center, creating a balanced richness. Dijon mustard adds a slight bite, lifting the flavors of the dish and adding a traditional French element. The sauce is also quite versatile; you can adjust it to be more or less tangy by varying the amount of mustard or adding a splash of lemon. This creamy sauce not only serves as an accompaniment but also ties the entire dish together, enhancing every bite with its creamy, complex flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs

Choosing Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh ground chicken and good-quality ham. Avoid pre-packaged sliced ham, which may be too thin or overly salty. Choose Swiss cheese that melts well for the best texture.
Stuffing the Cheese: To prevent cheese from melting out too much, make sure each cube is fully encased in the meatball mixture. Freezing the meatballs briefly helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Creating the Perfect Coating: The mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and panko ensures a crisp exterior, while the panko adds extra crunch. Coating the meatballs thoroughly creates a barrier that helps the cheese stay inside and contributes to that satisfying bite.
Achieving the Ideal Sauce Consistency: Stirring the sauce continuously while it simmers prevents lumps and ensures a smooth finish. For a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer; for a thinner sauce, add a splash of broth or half-and-half.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Chicken cordon bleu meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can serve them as a main course with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also work beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or a light pasta like angel hair. For a casual appetizer setup, arrange them on a platter with small bowls of the Dijon sauce for dipping, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors in a single bite. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Ideal Occasions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs

This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings. The bite-sized format makes it easy to serve at parties, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. Guests are often pleasantly surprised by the classic flavors presented in a new way, and the meatballs’ rich taste and creamy sauce add a touch of elegance to any table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or create a comforting weeknight meal, chicken cordon bleu meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that’s both familiar and sophisticated.

Adapting the Recipe to Suit Your Preferences

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the coating to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lower-Fat Option: Opt for reduced-fat Swiss cheese and half-and-half to lighten up the recipe without sacrificing much flavor.
Vegetarian Adaptation: For a meat-free version, try a vegetarian ground chicken alternative and a plant-based cheese, adjusting the ham with smoky tempeh or a similar substitute for flavor.

The recipe can also be modified to include additional herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile. A touch of thyme or rosemary could add an earthy note, while a dash of cayenne pepper can introduce subtle heat.

History and Cultural Influence of Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken cordon bleu has roots in European cuisine, with “cordon bleu” translating from French as “blue ribbon,” historically symbolizing excellence. Originally, the term referred to high-ranking French culinary achievements and was later adapted to describe dishes of exceptional quality. The chicken cordon bleu as we know it, with cheese and ham layered within breaded chicken, became popular in the mid-20th century. This meatball version maintains the spirit of this culinary classic, celebrating its heritage while adapting to modern tastes and preferences.

Nutritional Benefits and Balanced Eating

While chicken cordon bleu meatballs are undoubtedly an indulgence, they also offer some nutritional benefits. Chicken is a lean protein source, and Swiss cheese provides calcium and essential fats. By using leaner cuts of ham and incorporating fresh parsley into the recipe, you can boost the dish’s nutritional value slightly. Additionally, the Dijon cream sauce can be made with lower-fat ingredients if desired. Pairing these meatballs with nutrient-dense sides like leafy greens or roasted vegetables creates a more balanced, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together all the beloved flavors of traditional chicken cordon bleu in a format that’s easy to prepare, serve, and enjoy. This recipe celebrates the best of both worlds: the sophisticated flavors of French cuisine and the practicality needed for modern cooking. From the creamy Swiss cheese center to the tangy Dijon cream sauce, every element contributes to a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re preparing these meatballs as a cozy family meal or as an appetizer for a special occasion, they’re sure to impress with their rich flavor and elegance. The versatility of the recipe allows it to be adapted to various dietary needs and preferences, making it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire.

Chicken cordon bleu meatballs aren’t just a meal—they’re a way to enjoy comfort food with a touch of sophistication, and they’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs