Unlock the secret recipe: how to recreate the legendary raley’s chicken cordon bleu at home!

Craving the delectable flavors of Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu but prefer the comfort of home cooking? This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of preparing this iconic dish, ensuring a restaurant-quality experience in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup grated ham
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
• Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a medium bowl, combine Swiss cheese, ham, bread crumbs, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Cordon Bleu

• Place a chicken breast on a cutting board.
• Spread a layer of filling in the center of the chicken breast.
• Fold the chicken over the filling and press the edges together to seal.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

• Dredge the chicken in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs.
• Finally, coat the chicken in bread crumbs.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

• Place the chicken cordon bleu on a greased baking sheet.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts.
• Serve the chicken cordon bleu with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.

Variations

• For a richer flavor, use Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss cheese.
• Add a slice of prosciutto to the filling for an extra layer of savory goodness.
• If you prefer a crispy crust, double-bread the chicken by repeating steps 4 and 5.

How to Cook Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu in an Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the breaded chicken cordon bleu in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown.
• Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.

How to Cook Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu in a Skillet

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sear the chicken cordon bleu for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet.
• Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

The Verdict: A Culinary Masterpiece

With its tender chicken, flavorful filling, and crispy breading, Raley’s Chicken Cordon Bleu is a culinary delight that’s easy to recreate at home. By following these step-by-step instructions and experimenting with variations, you can impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish.

FAQ

Q: How can I make the breading extra crispy?
A: Double-bread the chicken by repeating steps 4 and 5.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese in the filling?
A: Yes, you can use Gruyère, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C).