Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs
Everybody has that one dish or flavor that transports them back to a cherished moment in life, and for me, it’s the hearty combination of chicken, ham, and cheese embraced in crispy breadcrumbs. When I first left home, this Chicken Cordon Bleu was a taste of comfort that eased my homesickness. Fast forward to today, I’ve found a fun and delectable twist on the classic: Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs. These meatballs are a delightful melding of that nostalgic taste, presenting a fun and shareable option for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
About Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs
What are Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs are bite-sized marvels inspired by the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu dish. They blend ground chicken infused with savory ham and rich Swiss cheese into the perfect, mouthwatering meatball. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown, these meatballs provide all the flavors we adore in Chicken Cordon Bleu but are perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings. Not only do they satisfy cravings for comfort food, but they also look stunning on a platter, drizzled with a tasty sauce.
The origin of Cordon Bleu Recipe
Cordon Bleu, a classic gourmet dish, has its origins in Switzerland, registered in various recipes dating back to the 1940s. The name “Cordon Bleu” literally translates to “blue ribbon,” symbolizing excellence in culinary arts. Traditionally, it consists of thinly sliced chicken or veal wrapped around ham and cheese, all tightly breaded and pan-fried to crispy perfection. This classic dish has found its way into multiple adaptations, and Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs reflect that tradition while introducing a new, fun experience for food lovers.
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A dash of paprika for garnish
Necessary Cooking Tools
List of cooking tools
To ensure a smooth cooking experience, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Pans for frying (if preferred)
- A meat thermometer (to check for doneness)
- Whisk for the sauce
- Spatula for flipping meatballs
Step by Step Preparation
Filling Preparation
To start, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper according to taste. Whisk the mixture together until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This step introduces a robust flavor that will be the heart of your meatballs, ensuring every bite is packed with that unforgettable Cordon Bleu essence. Set the filling aside while preparing the chicken meatball mixture.
How to Shape and Cook the Meatballs
In another mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to blend all the ingredients until fully incorporated.
Now, it’s time to shape the meatballs! Begin by taking a generous amount of the chicken mixture in your hands. Flatten it slightly, place a teaspoon of the filling in the center, and carefully fold the meat around the filling. Roll it into a ball, ensuring the filling won’t escape. Repeat this process until you’ve formed all meatballs.
Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the shaped meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How to prepare the Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, let’s make the sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Adding a dash of paprika can give it a lovely color and an extra layer of flavor. This sauce will act as a dipping companion to the delicious meatballs, bringing a tangy bite that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Final Assembly
Once the meatballs are golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the flavors to settle while maintaining juiciness inside. Now, arrange the meatballs on a serving platter. Drizzle the sauce generously over the meatballs or serve it on the side for your guests to dip into. For a polished touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a bit of paprika over the top for added appeal.
Serve these delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs immediately, while they are warm for a fantastic party appetizer or family meal. They can stand alone but are equally delicious when paired with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Cooking tips & Serving Suggestions
Tips to Consider when Cooking
Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your meatball ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until incorporated for a lighter meatball.
- Taste Test: Before forming all the meatballs, sauté a small patty, then taste it. Adjust seasonings as needed, since you want the flavors to shine through.
Sauce
- Customize: Feel free to customize the sauce by adding ingredients like garlic or crushed red pepper to give it a kick.
- Balance: If it’s too tangy, balance it with a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Stuffing & wrapping
- Keep it Cool: If your filling is too warm, it might make stuffing the meatballs a messy task. Ensure your filling is at room temperature for easy handling.
- Sealing: Make sure to completely seal the meatball around the filling to avoid any leaks during baking.
How to serve Cordon Bleu Meatballs
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs can be served warm as a delightful appetizer, on a platter for parties, or even as a main dish paired with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad. You can garnishing them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives to elevate the presentation.
Most Commonly Asked Questions
What are the best side dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs?
When serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs, there are several delightful side dishes you can choose from:
- Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with olive oil provide a healthy, colorful balance.
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make for a comforting side.
- Mixed green salad: Tossing together a fresh salad with vinaigrette boosts the freshness of the meal.
Each of these side dishes complements the savory flavors of meatballs, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Can Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! These meatballs can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. You can prepare the meatballs completely and store them in the fridge, uncooked, for up to 24 hours. If you wish to store them longer, freeze the shaped, uncooked meatballs. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs and for how long?
Yes, Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Once you’ve shaped them but before you cook, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. These can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to bake them straight from frozen. You may need to extend the baking time slightly.
What can I use as a substitute for certain ingredients?
If you find yourself missing some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes you can use:
- Ground Chicken: If you can’t find ground chicken, ground turkey is a great alternative.
- Swiss cheese: You can swap Swiss with mozzarella or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Dijon mustard: If Dijon isn’t available, regular mustard can work too, though it will lack the same tang.
- Mayonnaise: A Greek yogurt can make a healthier substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce.
- Breadcrumbs: Use crushed cornflakes or panko for an equally delicious texture.
Conclusion
Recap
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs serve as a fantastic and playful presentation of a beloved classic. Combining flavorful chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a crispy golden crust, creates a satisfying experience in every bite. They are versatile, allowing for easy customization based on personal preferences and available ingredients.
Encourage Trial
Don’t hesitate to invite friends and family over for a meal featuring these scrumptious meatballs; they are sure to impress! Whether you’re making them for a party, a cozy dinner, or just to satisfy your cravings, these meatballs will not disappoint. So roll up your sleeves and dive into these Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs – your taste buds will thank you!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, these meatballs are filled with ham and Swiss cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
1 cup diced ham, 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 pound ground chicken, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, beaten, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, Salt and pepper to taste, A dash of paprika for garnish
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste and whisk until combined. Set aside., In another mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated., Take a portion of the chicken mixture, flatten it slightly, place a teaspoon of the filling in the center, and fold the meat around the filling to form a ball. Repeat until all meatballs are formed., Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C)., While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste and add a dash of paprika., Once the meatballs are done, let them cool for a few minutes, then arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle with sauce or serve it on the side.
Notes
These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cool Time: 0
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swiss
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu, Meatballs, Comfort Food, Appetizer