BBQ Chicken Cordon Bleu: Discover the Perfect Recipe for Grilling Success

Who says chicken cordon bleu is only for the kitchen? With the right ingredients and a bit of ingenuity, you can enjoy this classic dish on the grill this summer. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our ultimate guide on how to BBQ chicken cordon bleu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup cooked ham, chopped
• 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
2. Butterfly the Chicken: Use a sharp knife to carefully butterfly the chicken breasts, creating a pocket in each.
3. Fill the Pockets: Divide the ham and Swiss cheese evenly between the chicken pockets, pressing down to secure.
4. Coat the Chicken: Brush the melted butter over the chicken and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
5. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavors of your chicken cordon bleu will only be as good as the ingredients you use. Opt for fresh, quality chicken and cheese.
• Don’t overfill the pockets: If you overfill the pockets, the cheese and ham may leak out during grilling.
• Cook over indirect heat: This will help prevent the chicken from burning on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Variations and Substitutions

• Try different cheeses: Instead of Swiss, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Add your favorite vegetables: Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and texture.
• Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are a more flavorful and juicy cut of meat than chicken breasts.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Green salad: A fresh green salad will balance out the richness of the chicken cordon bleu.
• Grilled vegetables: Grilled zucchini, peppers, or onions add a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Key Points: Elevate Your BBQ Experience with Chicken Cordon Bleu

Grilling chicken cordon bleu is a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. With its juicy chicken, melty cheese, and crispy breading, this dish is sure to become a summer favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let’s create an unforgettable meal together!

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I grill chicken cordon bleu without a grill?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes.

2. How can I make my chicken cordon bleu more flavorful?
Use a flavorful marinade and add herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture.

3. What should I do if my chicken cordon bleu is still raw after grilling?
Continue grilling over indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before butterflying and grilling.

5. How can I make my chicken cordon bleu sauce from scratch?
Combine melted butter, flour, milk, and seasonings in a saucepan and cook until thickened.