French Airline Chicken, also known as Chicken Cordon Bleu, is a dish that has been a staple of fine dining for decades. The name “Airline Chicken” was coined in the 1960s, when this dish was a popular choice on airline menus. It is a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. In this article, we will explore the history of French Airline Chicken, its ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it.
History of French Airline Chicken
French Airline Chicken has its roots in the classic Swiss dish, Chicken Cordon Bleu. The name “Cordon Bleu” refers to the blue ribbon that was awarded to chefs who prepared this dish to perfection. The original recipe consisted of a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried. Over time, the recipe evolved, and different variations emerged. The French Airline Chicken version became popular in the United States in the 1960s, where it was served on airline menus as a premium dish.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make French Airline Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken breasts, ham, cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, and oil for frying. The type of cheese used can vary, but Emmental or Gruyère are the most traditional choices. The ham should be thinly sliced and of high quality, such as prosciutto or Black Forest ham. The breadcrumbs can be plain or seasoned, depending on your preference.
Preparing the Chicken
To prepare the chicken, you will need to butterfly the breast, which means cutting it in half and opening it up like a book. This will allow you to stuff the chicken with the ham and cheese. Be careful not to cut the chicken too deeply, as this can cause it to fall apart during cooking.
Cooking the French Airline Chicken
Once the chicken is prepared, you can start cooking it. The first step is to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Then, you will need to dip the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken in beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Finally, roll the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
Frying the Chicken
To fry the chicken, heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry until it is golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the size of the chicken breast. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Baking the Chicken
If you prefer not to fry the chicken, you can also bake it in the oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serving and Variations
French Airline Chicken can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a salad. You can also serve it with a sauce, such as a cream sauce or a fruit sauce. To add some extra flavor to the dish, you can sprinkle some paprika or chopped herbs on top of the chicken before serving.
Common Variations
There are many variations of French Airline Chicken, and the recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes. Some common variations include:
- Using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella
- Adding other ingredients to the stuffing, such as mushrooms or spinach
- Using a different type of meat, such as pork or veal
Conclusion
French Airline Chicken is a classic dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, it is a dish that is both elegant and delicious. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create your own French Airline Chicken at home. Whether you choose to fry or bake the chicken, the result is sure to be a dish that you will want to make again and again. So why not give it a try and see why French Airline Chicken has been a staple of fine dining for decades?
What is French Airline Chicken and where did it originate?
French Airline Chicken, also known as Chicken Cordon Bleu, is a classic dish that consists of a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried. The dish is believed to have originated in the 1960s, when it was served on airlines as a premium meal option for first-class passengers. The name “Airline Chicken” refers to the fact that it was a popular dish among airlines, while “French” refers to the dish’s French-inspired cuisine.
The dish gained popularity in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s, where it became a staple in many upscale restaurants. The original recipe consisted of a chicken breast stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then coated with a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and finally fried until golden brown. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, with some chefs adding their own twist to the classic dish. Despite its evolution, French Airline Chicken remains a beloved dish around the world, known for its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
What are the essential ingredients needed to make French Airline Chicken?
To make French Airline Chicken, you will need a few essential ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and butter or oil for frying. You will also need some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and paprika, to add flavor to the dish. Additionally, you may want to have some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on hand to garnish the dish before serving.
The quality of the ingredients is crucial to the success of the dish, so be sure to choose the freshest and highest-quality ingredients available. For example, use thinly sliced ham that is low in sodium and high in flavor, and choose a good-quality Swiss cheese that is nutty and creamy. Fresh breadcrumbs are also essential, as they will help to create a crispy and golden-brown coating on the chicken. By using the right ingredients, you will be able to create a delicious and authentic French Airline Chicken dish that is sure to impress your guests.
How do I prepare the chicken breasts for stuffing and breading?
To prepare the chicken breasts for stuffing and breading, you will need to butterfly them, which involves cutting them in half and opening them up like a book. This will allow you to stuff the chicken breasts with the ham and cheese filling. Start by placing the chicken breast on a flat surface and cutting it in half lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through the breast. Then, open up the breast and flatten it slightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Once the chicken breast is butterflied, you can stuff it with the ham and cheese filling, making sure to leave a small border around the edges of the breast. Then, fold the breast over the filling and press the edges together to seal the chicken. Next, dip the stuffed chicken breast in the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, coating it evenly and pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to help them stick. Finally, heat some butter or oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through.
What is the best way to stuff the chicken breasts with ham and cheese?
The best way to stuff the chicken breasts with ham and cheese is to use a gentle and even touch, making sure not to overstuff the breast. Start by placing a slice or two of ham on one half of the butterflied chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, add a slice or two of Swiss cheese on top of the ham, making sure to cover the entire surface of the breast. Finally, add any additional seasonings or ingredients, such as chopped herbs or grated nutmeg, to the filling.
When stuffing the chicken breast, be sure to handle the meat gently and avoid applying too much pressure, which can cause the breast to tear. Also, make sure to leave a small border around the edges of the breast, as this will help the filling to stay inside the chicken while it is cooking. Once the chicken is stuffed, fold the breast over the filling and press the edges together to seal the chicken. Then, proceed with the breading and frying process, making sure to cook the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through.
Can I bake French Airline Chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake French Airline Chicken instead of frying it, which is a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative. To bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the chicken with a little bit of oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Baking the chicken will result in a slightly different texture and flavor than frying, but it can still be a delicious and satisfying option. To get a crispy coating on the chicken, you can try broiling the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking, which will help to brown the breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can try using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, which will help to create a crispy and golden-brown coating on the chicken. By baking the chicken, you can enjoy a healthier and lower-calorie version of French Airline Chicken that is still full of flavor and texture.
How do I serve French Airline Chicken, and what are some popular side dishes?
French Airline Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. Some popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad, and steamed rice. You can also serve the chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, such as a mushroom or cream sauce, which will help to add flavor and moisture to the dish.
To serve the chicken, slice it thinly and arrange it on a plate with your chosen side dishes. You can also garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, and serve it with a wedge of lemon or a side of fruit. For a more formal presentation, you can serve the chicken on a platter or individual plates, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. By serving French Airline Chicken with a variety of side dishes and garnishes, you can create a delicious and elegant meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Can I make French Airline Chicken ahead of time, and how do I store it?
Yes, you can make French Airline Chicken ahead of time, which is a great option for those looking to save time and effort. To make the chicken ahead of time, prepare the chicken breasts as directed, but do not fry them until you are ready to serve. Instead, store the breaded chicken breasts in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
To store the chicken, place the breaded chicken breasts on a plate or tray, cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate or freeze them until you are ready to cook. When you are ready to cook the chicken, simply remove it from the refrigerator or freezer and fry it in hot oil until it is golden brown and cooked through. You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it, which is a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative. By making French Airline Chicken ahead of time, you can enjoy a delicious and convenient meal that is perfect for special occasions or everyday dining.