Name: Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each); 4 slices Swiss cheese; 4 slices ham; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko bread crumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Prepare to experience a culinary collision of comfort food and classic French elegance! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of a traditional Cordon Bleu, but instead of the usual chicken, ham, and Swiss, it's all swirled together with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Yes, you read that right! This isn't your nonna's spaghetti, but trust me, it's a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

While Cordon Bleu itself boasts a rich history, often attributed to a Swiss origin and later popularized in France, this spaghetti twist is a more modern invention. It cleverly marries the sophisticated flavors of Cordon Bleu with the universally loved simplicity of pasta. Think of it as a culinary love letter to both cultures!

What makes Cordon Bleu Spaghetti so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender spaghetti, the savory ham, the melted Swiss cheese, and the creamy sauce all come together in a symphony of deliciousness. It's also surprisingly easy to make, making it a fantastic weeknight meal that feels a little bit fancy. Plus, who can resist a dish that combines cheese, ham, and pasta? Get ready to elevate your spaghetti game with this unforgettable recipe!

Ingredients:

1 pound spaghetti
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices ham
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken Cordon Bleu

Okay, let's get started with the heart of our dish – the chicken cordon bleu! This is where the magic happens, transforming simple chicken breasts into cheesy, ham-filled delights.

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First, we need to get our chicken breasts ready for their cheesy, hammy makeover. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to about 1/4-inch thickness. This helps tenderize the chicken and makes it easier to roll. Be gentle, you don't want to tear the chicken!
Season the Chicken: Now, let's add some flavor! In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the flattened chicken breasts. This simple seasoning will really enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Assemble the Cordon Bleu: Time for the fun part! Place one slice of Swiss cheese and one slice of ham on top of each chicken breast. Make sure the cheese and ham don't extend beyond the edges of the chicken.
Roll the Chicken: Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end. Secure the roll with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking. Don't be shy with the toothpicks – use as many as you need to keep everything snug.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, combine the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. This is our breading assembly line!
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, making sure to coat it completely. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the bread crumbs adhere. The panko bread crumbs will give the chicken a lovely crispy texture.

Cooking the Chicken and Spaghetti

Now that our chicken cordon bleu is prepped and ready, it's time to cook it to golden-brown perfection while simultaneously preparing the spaghetti. This part requires a little multitasking, but I promise it's worth it!

Cook the Spaghetti: While you're working on the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. Don't rinse it, as the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing a beautiful color and crispy crust.
Simmer in Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The simmering in marinara sauce ensures the chicken is moist and flavorful.
Remove Toothpicks: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the toothpicks. Be extra careful, as the chicken will be hot!

Assembling and Serving

We're almost there! Now it's time to bring everything together and create a delicious and satisfying Cordon Bleu Spaghetti masterpiece.

Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the chicken and marinara sauce. Toss gently to coat the spaghetti evenly with the sauce.
Serve: Divide the spaghetti and chicken cordon bleu among plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Cordon Bleu Spaghetti! This dish is best served hot, so don't wait too long to dig in.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your Cordon Bleu Spaghetti? Here are a few ideas:

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella.
Ham Variations: Use prosciutto, Black Forest ham, or even turkey ham for a different flavor profile.
Sauce Variations: Try using a creamy Alfredo sauce or a pesto sauce instead of marinara.
Vegetable Additions: Add some sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, to the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little heat.

Make-Ahead Instructions

If you're short on time, you can prepare the chicken cordon bleu ahead of time. Simply follow the steps for preparing and breading the chicken, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, follow the remaining steps.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Cordon Bleu Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
Protein: 40-50 grams per serving
Fat: 25-35 grams per serving
Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams per serving

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Cordon Bleu Spaghetti! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Cordon Bleu Spaghetti isn't just another pasta dish; it's a flavor explosion that brings the elegance of classic Cordon Bleu to your weeknight dinner table. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the savory ham, and the crispy breadcrumb topping create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe is a must-try because it's surprisingly simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect way to elevate your pasta game without spending hours in the kitchen. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere is traditional for Cordon Bleu, but Swiss, provolone, or even a blend would work beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, comforting note. For a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. Serving Suggestions: * Serve it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. * A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. * For a more complete meal, add a side of steamed green beans or broccoli. * Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. * A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat for those who like a little kick. Variations to Explore: * Spicy Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery twist. * Deluxe Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Incorporate some sautéed mushrooms and onions into the sauce for added depth of flavor. * Lightened-Up Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Use skim milk and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on the calories without sacrificing flavor. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber. * Kid-Friendly Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Cut the ham into smaller pieces and use a milder cheese like mozzarella for a kid-approved version. * Baked Cordon Bleu Spaghetti: Transfer the cooked spaghetti to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown and bubbly for a comforting casserole. I’m so excited for you to try this Cordon Bleu Spaghetti recipe! It’s become a staple in my own kitchen, and I know it will become one of yours too. The combination of familiar flavors in a new and exciting format is what makes this dish so special. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience! I'd love to hear your thoughts, see your photos, and learn about any variations you try. Tag me in your posts on social media and let's spread the Cordon Bleu Spaghetti love! Happy cooking! I can't wait to see what you create! Let me know in the comments below how it turns out!