### Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna: A Delicious Fusion of Flavors
#### **Introduction**
Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna combines the comforting layers of traditional lasagna with the rich, savory elements of Chicken Cordon Bleu. This innovative dish takes tender chicken, layers of pasta, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce, offering a unique twist on both lasagna and the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. It’s an impressive, flavorful, and hearty meal that can easily become a family favorite.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Chicken Cordon Bleu has its roots in French cuisine, with “cordon bleu” meaning “blue ribbon,” a symbol of excellence. The dish typically features a breaded chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then fried or baked. The lasagna version draws inspiration from Italian and French cooking, blending two beloved dishes into a new creation. While lasagna itself originates from Italy, this fusion recipe reflects the global love of combining different cultural culinary traditions to create new and exciting meals.
#### **Ingredients and Quantity**
*For the lasagna:*
– **12 lasagna noodles** (regular or no-boil)
– **2 tablespoons olive oil**
– **4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts** (about 1 lb)
– **1 cup cooked ham**, diced
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1 teaspoon onion powder**
– **1 teaspoon dried thyme**
– **1/2 teaspoon paprika**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
*For the cheese sauce:*
– **4 tablespoons butter**
– **1/4 cup all-purpose flour**
– **3 cups whole milk** (or 2% for a lighter version)
– **1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese**
– **1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese**
– **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **1/2 teaspoon mustard powder** (optional)
– **1 teaspoon dried basil** (optional)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
#### **Optional Additions**
– **1/2 cup spinach**, for added nutrition and color.
– **1/2 cup grated Gruyère** or **Fontina** cheese for a more intense flavor.
– **1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs** (for topping, for added crunch).
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped, for garnish.
#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Use no-boil lasagna noodles** if you want to save time, but make sure to use extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook fully.
2. **Layer thoughtfully**: Start with sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by noodles, chicken, ham, and cheese sauce. Repeat, finishing with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
3. **Rest the lasagna** for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make slicing easier.
4. **Use a high-quality cheese**: Swiss and mozzarella are traditional, but opting for freshly grated cheese enhances flavor and melt quality.
5. **Add a dash of white wine** to the sauce for a depth of flavor, but use sparingly.
#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the chicken**: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
2. **Cook the noodles**: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the cheese sauce**: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the mozzarella, Swiss, and Parmesan cheeses. Add mustard powder, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. **Assemble the lasagna**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of cheese sauce at the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of chicken, diced ham, and another layer of cheese sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of cheese sauce on top. Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella or Parmesan, and if desired, add panko breadcrumbs for crunch.
5. **Bake**: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. **Rest and serve**: Let the lasagna sit for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
#### **Description**
Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is a rich and indulgent dish with layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and a velvety cheese sauce. It merges the best elements of a classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with the comfort of lasagna, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The combination of mozzarella and Swiss cheese creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the ham adds a savory, slightly salty contrast to the creamy chicken.
#### **Nutritional Information (per serving)**
*Based on 8 servings*
– **Calories**: 520 kcal
– **Protein**: 35g
– **Carbohydrates**: 40g
– **Fat**: 30g
– Saturated fat: 14g
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 4g
– **Sodium**: 850mg
– **Cholesterol**: 100mg
– **Calcium**: 300mg
– **Iron**: 2mg
*Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient choices.*
#### **Conclusion**
Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is a fantastic choice for a special family dinner or a hearty gathering. It combines comfort, indulgence, and creativity, making it an easy-to-love dish for both Chicken Cordon Bleu fans and lasagna aficionados alike. Its creamy, cheesy layers, tender chicken, and smoky ham come together in perfect harmony, making every bite an indulgent experience.
#### **Recommendation**
This dish is perfect for occasions like family dinners, holiday meals, or dinner parties where you want to impress guests with something out of the ordinary. Pair it with a light green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat noodles or adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While Chicken Cordon Bleu Lasagna is an indulgent dish, there are plenty of ways to make it more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. Opting for lean chicken breast, using reduced-fat cheese, or adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini can make it a bit lighter while still keeping all the deliciousness intact. Remember, a healthy approach to indulgence is all about balance and making thoughtful ingredient choices!