Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce: Elevate Your Dish

Elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu with a delicious homemade sauce that complements the flavors of this classic dish perfectly. This creamy, tangy sauce is easy to make and adds an extra layer of richness to your meal. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce that will impress your family and guests.

Ingredients List

Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 cups whole or 2% milk
• 4 tablespoons Dijon or spicy brown mustard
• 6 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Saucepan: For cooking the sauce.
2. Whisk: To blend the ingredients smoothly.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
4. Cheese Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce-making experience.

Preparing the Roux

Making the Base

1. Melt the Butter:
   In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely but do not let it brown.
2. Add the Flour:
   Once the butter is melted, add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously to combine the flour and butter, creating a smooth paste. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.

Incorporating the Milk

1. Gradually Add the Milk:
   Slowly pour in 2 1/4 cups of whole or 2% milk, whisking constantly. This helps to prevent lumps from forming and ensures a smooth sauce. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture begins to thicken.
2. Cook Until Thickened:
   Once all the milk is incorporated, continue to cook the sauce, whisking frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Adding Flavor to the Sauce

Now that the base of the sauce is prepared, it’s time to add the key ingredients that will give your Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce its distinctive flavor.

Incorporating the Mustard and Cheese

1. Add the Mustard:
   Stir in 4 tablespoons of Dijon or spicy brown mustard. This adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that complements the creamy base.
2. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
   Gradually add 6 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly to ensure the cheese melts evenly and fully incorporates into the sauce, enhancing its richness and depth of flavor.

Seasoning the Sauce

1. Add Salt and Pepper:
   Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
   Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This helps to meld the flavors together and ensures the sauce reaches its optimal thickness and creaminess.

Finalizing and Serving the Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

1. Check the Consistency:
   Once the sauce has simmered, check its consistency. It should be smooth, creamy, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the sauce one last time and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or mustard, depending on your taste preference.

Serving the Sauce

1. Pour the Sauce:
   When the Chicken Cordon Bleu is ready to be served, pour the hot, creamy sauce over the top. Ensure each serving gets a generous amount of sauce to fully enjoy the rich flavors.
2. Garnish:
   For an elegant presentation, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu with sides that complement its flavors, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Storing and Reheating

1. Storage:
   If you have leftover sauce, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating:
   To reheat the sauce, place it in a saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until it is heated through, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce is a delightful addition to your meal, enhancing the classic dish with its creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors. By following this recipe, you can create a sauce that’s perfect for pouring over your homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu or any other dish that could use a touch of elegance and richness.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciously smooth and flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Sauce. Your family and friends will be impressed by the extra effort, and you’ll love the added depth of flavor this sauce brings to your meal.