Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to please your taste buds. It’s a French classic that has been loved by people all over the world. The dish consists of chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and then baked until golden brown. It’s easy to make and goes well with several side dishes.
However, choosing a perfect side dish to accompany Chicken Cordon Bleu can be a bit confusing. There are so many options to choose from, and the wrong choice can detract from the flavor of the dish. In this article, we’ll help you select the best side dishes to complement your Chicken Cordon Bleu and make your meal complete.
Classic Accompaniments: A Guide to Pairing Chicken Cordon Bleu with Traditional Sides
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish that has been popular for decades. It’s a dish that combines chicken, ham, and cheese into a delicious and satisfying entrée. When you’re planning a meal with chicken cordon bleu, there are a few traditional sides that pair well with this dish.
One classic side that goes well with chicken cordon bleu is mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes provide a creamy and hearty complement to the dish. Another classic side is green beans. Green beans add a pop of color and a refreshing crunch to the meal. Other traditional sides that work well with chicken cordon bleu include roasted vegetables, a mixed green salad, and rice pilaf. These sides provide a balance of flavors that complement the rich and savory flavors of the chicken cordon bleu.
Upgrading Your Sides: How to Elevate Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Dinner with Creative Pairings
When it comes to Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can’t go wrong with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans or roasted carrots. However, if you’re looking to elevate your meal and impress your guests, consider upgrading your sides with creative and flavorful pairings.
One option is to pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a refreshing and bright salad, such as a mixed greens salad with sliced almonds, goat cheese, and a citrus vinaigrette. Another tasty option is to serve it with roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a honey mustard glaze for a sweet and tangy twist. Pairing your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a unique side not only adds complexity to the overall flavor profile, but also showcases your culinary creativity.
Healthy Sides for Chicken Cordon Bleu: Achieving a Balanced Meal
When enjoying a decadent dish like chicken cordon bleu, it’s important to balance it out with healthy sides. Not only do they add some necessary nutrients and fiber to the meal, but they can also help to cut down on the overall calorie count. Some great healthy sides for chicken cordon bleu include roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, quinoa or brown rice, and a simple side salad.
Roasted vegetables are a great option because they’re flavorful and provide a good amount of vitamins and minerals. Quinoa or brown rice are excellent choices for a more substantial side, as they provide added protein and fiber. Lastly, a side salad with plenty of greens, veggies, and a light dressing can help to round out the meal and provide even more nutrition. By choosing these healthy sides, you’ll be able to enjoy your chicken cordon bleu guilt-free.
Wine Pairings with Chicken Cordon Bleu: Finding the Perfect Sip to Complement Your Dish
When pairing wine with Chicken Cordon Bleu, the key is to choose a wine that can elevate the flavors of the dish without overpowering it. The acidity and tannins of red wines can clash with the creaminess of the chicken, while sweet wines can make the dish taste cloying. Therefore, it is usually recommended to pair Chicken Cordon Bleu with white wines.
One classic wine pairing for Chicken Cordon Bleu is Chardonnay. This full-bodied white wine has a buttery texture and notes of vanilla and oak that complement the rich flavors of the dish. Other white wines that pair well with Chicken Cordon Bleu include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chenin Blanc. To find the perfect sip to complement your dish, experiment with different wines and see which one enhances the flavors of your Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Pasta, Rice or Potato: Which Starch Will Bring Out the Best in Chicken Cordon Bleu?
When it comes to choosing a starch to go alongside chicken cordon bleu, there are a few different options that can work well. One popular choice is pasta, which can be served in a variety of ways. A simple pasta with butter and Parmesan can complement the dish nicely, or for something a bit more indulgent, a creamy Alfredo sauce can be a great option. Another option is rice, which can be prepared in a number of different ways. A simple pilaf-style rice with herbs and broth can be a tasty and flavorful option, while a more indulgent option might be a rich, saffron-infused risotto.
Finally, potatoes can also work well as a side dish for chicken cordon bleu. A classic roasted potato with herbs and seasoning can provide a tasty and hearty accompaniment, while a more elegant option might be a creamy mashed potato. Ultimately, the choice between pasta, rice or potatoes will depend largely on personal preference and the specific flavors of the chicken cordon bleu dish being prepared. Experimenting with different starches can be a fun way to find the perfect side dish pairing.
Veggie Sides to Pair with Chicken Cordon Bleu: Adding Nutrition and Flavor to Your Plate
When it comes to pairing sides with chicken cordon bleu, don’t forget about incorporating some nutritious and tasty veggies onto your plate. Not only will you add color and flavor, but you’ll also boost your meal’s nutritional value.
Some classic veggie options to consider include steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, grilled zucchini, or a simple side salad. You can also experiment with more exotic veggies like sautéed bok choy, roasted brussels sprouts, or stuffed bell peppers for a fun twist. Whatever you choose, be sure to season your veggies with herbs, spices, or a flavorful vinaigrette to complement the savory flavors of chicken cordon bleu. With these veggie options at your disposal, you can create a balanced and delicious meal for yourself or your family.
International Flavors: Exotic Sides to Take Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meal to the Next Level
If you’re someone who likes to take their chicken cordon bleu meal up a notch, then this section is just for you! While traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salads are always great choices, sometimes you may want to try something a bit more exotic to complement the flavors of your dish.
Here are a few ideas to consider: For a taste of the Mediterranean, try serving your chicken cordon bleu with couscous or quinoa salad alongside tabbouleh. Alternatively, if you like bold, spicy flavors, opt for a side of Mexican-inspired rice and black beans or Asian-inspired stir-fried vegetables with rice. No matter which direction you go in, these international flavors are sure to add an exciting touch to your chicken cordon bleu meal.
Final Verdict
To sum it up, chicken cordon bleu is an indulgent and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, try mashed potatoes and green beans. For a lighter option, opt for a mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, roasted root vegetables or a creamy risotto also complement the dish nicely.
No matter which sides you choose, remember that balancing flavors, textures, and colors is key. Experiment with different combinations to discover your own perfect pairing. With a little creativity and a lot of flavor, chicken cordon bleu and its side dishes are sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or family meal.
