Introduction
Introduction to What to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu
What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu that isn’t just any ordinary chicken dish; it’s a symphony of flavors. This delectable dish, with its roots in French cuisine, combines chicken breast, ham, and cheese, breaded and cooked to perfection. But what makes it even more special is the sides you serve with it. The right accompaniments can transform a good meal into a great one, enhancing the flavors and textures in delightful ways.
When choosing sides for Chicken Cordon Bleu, consider balance. The dish is rich and hearty, so pairing it with something light, crunchy, or tangy can create a harmonious meal. From Dijon sauce to garlic butter rice, and from fresh salads to roasted vegetables, each side brings something unique to the table.
Let’s dive into the best side dishes to serve with your Chicken Cordon Bleu and make your next meal a memorable one.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Sauces for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Dijon Sauce for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Anything deep-fried begs for a thick, flavorful sauce, and Chicken Cordon Bleu is no exception. A Dijon sauce can elevate the dish to new heights. It’s quick to make and adds a delightful tangy note that complements the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese, it is a perfect answer to What to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Ingredients and Preparation: To make a simple Dijon sauce, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add flour and stir until it forms a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens. Flavor it with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Voilà, a luscious sauce ready to drizzle over your Chicken Cordon Bleu!
Why It Complements Chicken Cordon Bleu: The tanginess of the mustard cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a zesty contrast that balances the overall flavor profile perfectly.
Starches for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Garlic Butter Rice
When serving Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’ll want a side that can soak up all those delicious juices. Garlic butter rice is an excellent choice. Its mild flavor and satisfying texture make it a perfect counterpart to the rich main dish.
Recipe and Preparation Tips: Start with steamed white rice. In a pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss the steamed rice in the garlic butter until well coated. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of chicken broth if desired, to enhance the flavor.
Balancing the Richness: Garlic butter rice provides a neutral base that allows the bold flavors of the Chicken Cordon Bleu to stand out while adding a subtle, savory note. For more rice ideas, explore this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. Plus, it’s incredibly filling, making it an ideal choice for rounding out your meal.
Whipped Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish, but whipped roasted garlic mashed potatoes take it to another level. For another fluffy delight, try this Secret to Angel Food Cake. Creamy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying, they’re a match made in heaven for Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Ingredients and Preparation: Roast a few garlic cloves until soft. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash them with roasted garlic, butter, and cream. Whip until smooth and fluffy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Flavor Profile and Pairing: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy exterior of the Chicken Cordon Bleu, while the roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall meal. For more mashed potato recipes, take a look at this potato recipe guide. It’s comfort food at its finest, offering a hearty side that’s hard to resist.
Vegetables for Chicken Cordon Bleu
Fresh Salad
To balance the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu, a fresh salad is an excellent choice. It adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the main dish beautifully.
Types of Salads that Work Best: Consider a simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, a more elaborate salad with fruits, nuts, and cheese can add an extra layer of flavor.
Dressing Options and Preparation: A tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey works wonders. You might also enjoy this Mango Salsa Recipe as a flavorful side. For a creamier option, a light Caesar dressing or ranch can also be delightful.
Health Benefits: Besides adding flavor and texture, a fresh salad brings nutritional benefits, balancing the meal with vitamins and fiber.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Broccoli or Broccolini
For a side that’s both nutritious and delicious, broccoli or broccolini is a fantastic choice. Their mild flavors balance the umami richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu, adding a touch of greenery to your plate.
Steaming vs. Roasting Methods: You can steam broccoli or broccolini to keep it simple and healthy. Just steam until tender and sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper. For a more flavorful twist, roast them. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder, then roast at 400°F until the edges are crispy and slightly caramelized.
Nutritional Benefits and Flavor: These cruciferous veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals, offering a healthy counterbalance to the richness of the main dish. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of roasted broccoli or broccolini pairs well with the savory and cheesy notes of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Asparagus in Lemon Butter Sauce
Asparagus is another excellent vegetable side, especially when prepared in a lemon butter sauce. This dish adds a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Recipe and Preparation: Trim the asparagus and blanch in boiling water for a couple of minutes. In a separate pan, melt butter and add lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt. Toss the asparagus in the lemon butter sauce until well coated.
How the Lemon Butter Sauce Enhances the Dish: The acidity of the lemon brings a refreshing contrast, while the butter ties it back to the rich and savory elements of Chicken Cordon Bleu. This combination makes each bite delightful and well-balanced.
Balsamic-Glazed Green Beans
Green beans add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your meal, and glazing them with balsamic vinegar elevates their flavor profile.
Preparation Steps: Start by sautéing onions in butter until they’re soft. Add balsamic vinegar, a bit of sugar, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Toss cooked green beans in the balsamic glaze for a couple of minutes until well coated.
Texture and Flavor Contrasts: The crispy texture of the green beans complements the tender Chicken Cordon Bleu. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze adds a delicious contrast, making each bite interesting and satisfying.
Whipped Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
No meal is complete without a comforting side of mashed potatoes. Whipping them with roasted garlic transforms this classic dish into something extraordinary.
Ingredients and Preparation: Roast several garlic cloves until they’re soft and caramelized. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash them with the roasted garlic, butter, and cream. Whip the mixture until smooth and fluffy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Flavor Profile and Pairing: The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu, while the roasted garlic adds a rich, savory depth that complements the main dish perfectly.
More Vegetable Side Dishes
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots bring a natural sweetness and mild flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Roasting Technique: Slice carrots into sticks or use baby carrots. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a bit of thyme, then roast at 400°F until tender and slightly caramelized.
Complementing the Umami Flavors: The natural sweetness of the roasted carrots balances the umami richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu, while their soft texture provides a nice contrast to the crispy breading of the chicken. For more carrot recipes, visit this carrot recipe collection.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts may have a bad reputation, but when roasted correctly, they can be a delicious and healthy side dish.
Overcoming the Vegetable’s Bad Reputation: Cut the Brussels sprouts in half, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Roast them at 400°F until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Recipe and Flavor Profile: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delightful caramelized exterior. If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts, check out this roasted Brussels sprouts recipe. This pairs wonderfully with the savory Chicken Cordon Bleu, offering a flavorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
Zucchini Fries
Zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional French fries, offering a crispy texture without the extra grease.
Healthy Alternative to French Fries: Cut zucchini into sticks, coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake at 425°F until golden brown and crispy.
Preparation and Baking Tips: Serve these zucchini fries with a light dipping sauce or sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt. They provide a satisfying crunch and a mild flavor that pairs well with the rich Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Additional Hearty Sides
Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Their natural sweetness and creamy texture provide a perfect balance to the savory main dish.
Simple Preparation Method: Wash and prick the sweet potatoes with a fork. Bake them at 400°F for about 45-60 minutes until they are tender. Serve them with a dollop of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Sweet and Savory Pairing: The subtle sweetness of the baked sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the Chicken Cordon Bleu. This pairing creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Risotto with Mushrooms
A mushroom risotto is a luxurious and hearty side that pairs wonderfully with Chicken Cordon Bleu. The creamy texture and earthy flavors of the risotto enhance the overall dining experience.
Recipe and Preparation: Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter. Add Arborio rice and cook until slightly toasted. Gradually add warm chicken broth, stirring constantly until the rice is creamy and tender. Stir in sautéed mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream.
Why It Works Well with Chicken Cordon Bleu: The rich and creamy risotto complements the crispy and cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu. The earthy mushrooms add depth to the dish, making it perfect for a special occasion.
Additional Tips
Tips for Pairing Sides with Chicken Cordon Bleu
Pairing sides with Chicken Cordon Bleu is all about balance and contrast. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect meal:
Balancing Flavors and Textures: Choose sides that balance the rich and savory flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Light and fresh sides like salads or roasted vegetables provide a refreshing contrast. Creamy or starchy sides like mashed potatoes or risotto add a satisfying richness.
Presentation Tips: Presentation matters! Arrange your sides thoughtfully around the Chicken Cordon Bleu to create an appealing and appetizing plate. Consider the colors, textures, and shapes of each side to make your meal visually pleasing.
FAQs about What to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu
FAQs about Serving Sides with Chicken Cordon Bleu
What vegetables go well with Chicken Cordon Bleu? Vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, green beans, and roasted carrots pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu. Their mild flavors and crunchy textures complement the rich main dish.
Can I serve pasta with Chicken Cordon Bleu? Yes, pasta can be a great side dish for Chicken Cordon Bleu. Consider a light pasta salad or a simple pasta with a creamy or tomato-based sauce to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
What are some healthy side dish options? Healthy side options include fresh salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, and baked sweet potatoes. These sides add nutritional value and balance to the meal without adding extra richness.
How do I make a simple side sauce for Chicken Cordon Bleu? A simple Dijon sauce is a great option. Melt butter in a pan, add flour to make a roux, then whisk in milk until thickened. Flavor with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right side dishes can elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu meal from great to unforgettable. Whether you choose a tangy Dijon sauce, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, or fresh and crunchy vegetables, each side dish adds its unique touch. Experiment with these options and enjoy a well-balanced, flavorful meal.
