Chicken cordon bleu is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time gracing dinner tables for decades. But have you ever wondered why this breaded, ham-and-cheese stuffed chicken is called “cordon bleu”?
The name itself hints at a fascinating history intertwined with French cuisine prestigious honors, and evolving culinary traditions. By exploring the origins and evolution of chicken cordon bleu we can better understand the storied journey of this celebrated dish.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The term “cordon bleu” is French, translating literally to “blue ribbon.” Historically, it referred to the highest order of knights in France during the 16th century, who wore a ceremonial blue ribbon. The knights were known for their lavish banquets, so “cordon bleu” became associated with excellent cooking and gastronomy.
Later the designation was bestowed upon female cooks who demonstrated exceptional culinary skills especially in French cuisine. The blue ribbon came to signify mastery of the culinary arts.
So how did this prestigious French title become tied to breaded chicken stuffed with ham and cheese? The dish itself evolved over many years across various cultures.
The Murky Origins of Chicken Cordon Bleu
While the name “cordon bleu” is undoubtedly French, pinpointing the exact origins of the dish itself is difficult. Competing narratives point to possible roots in both French and Swiss cuisine.
According to some accounts, a version was created in the 1940s by a chef in Switzerland hastily preparing a stuffed veal cutlet for unexpected guests. The delighted diners deemed it worthy of the “cordon bleu” distinction.
Others link it to French cooking schools popularizing a veal or pork dish in the late 19th century. Regardless, it gained wide popularity internationally by the 1960s.
The Pivotal American Adaptation
Chicken emerged as the protein of choice for cordon bleu in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. Relative to veal or pork, chicken was affordable, versatile, and increasingly viewed as a healthier option.
The American adaptation paved the way for chicken cordon bleu to become a staple weeknight dinner or special occasion meal in households nationwide.
The name maintained its sophisticated French flair, while the accessible ingredients made executing the dish easy for home cooks. It was the perfect marriage of high-end cuisine and family comfort food.
Mastering the Technique
Preparing chicken cordon bleu requires some finesse to yield the perfect melding of flavors and textures. Here are the key steps:
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Pound chicken breasts to an even thinness
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Layer thinly sliced ham and Swiss cheese on the chicken
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Roll up each breast and secure with toothpicks
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Coat in flour, egg wash, then breadcrumbs
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Pan fry or bake until golden brown and the cheese melts
Executing each step properly, from the delicate rolling to the crispy breading, elevates the components into a cohesive, refined dish worthy of its lofty name.
The Satisfying Flavor Combination
Biting into a properly cooked chicken cordon bleu reveals a harmonious blend of savory, salty, and creamy flavors. The ham lends a subtly smoky bite, while the melted Swiss cheese provides a smooth, rich contrast. The chicken remains juicy and tender. This classic flavor profile, fusing protein and cheese, is likely why it has remained popular for so long.
An Enduring Legacy
From noble French roots to an American dinner table staple, chicken cordon bleu has certainly come a long way. Its legacy is a testament to the dish’s versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor. While its exact origins may remain nebulous, the name itself has become intrinsically tied to the preparation of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese.
More than just a recipe, chicken cordon bleu embodies a food tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to delight diners. Understanding the meaning behind the name allows us to fully appreciate how each bite connects us to a long, fascinating history.
What’s the difference between a Cordon Bleu and Chicken Kiev?
Both are stuffed and breaded dishes, but chicken Kiev uses herbed butter instead of ham and cheese.
What is Cordon Bleu?
A classic French favorite, Cordons Bleus are tender pieces of meat wrapped around ham and cheese, then breaded and baked or fried to golden, melty perfection. While they’re most often made with chicken, you’ll also find delicious versions using pork or veal.
The name Cordon Bleu means “blue ribbon” in French—a symbol of excellence in cooking. In the 19th century, it referred to elite chefs from aristocratic circles who wore a blue ribbon on their uniforms. Over time, the term came to describe any talented cook. As for why this particular dish carries the name… well… the origin is still a bit of a mystery.
Some say the recipe was born in the traditional bistros of Lyon, others claim it hails from Switzerland—where cheese-stuffed meats are a staple in Alpine cuisine. Either way, it’s now a beloved staple of the French culinary repertoire.
Crispy, melty, savory, and comforting—Cordon Bleu was always a treat at the school cafeteria when I was a kid. As an adult I stopped eating it for a while, turned off by the bland, mass-produced versions from supermarkets. But once I started making it from scratch at home, everything changed.
I’m so happy to share this recipe with you, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
The Royal Origins Behind Chicken Cordon Bleu
FAQ
Why is a cordon bleu called a cordon bleu?
Name. The French term cordon bleu is translated as “blue ribbon”. According to Larousse Gastronomique, the cordon bleu “was originally a wide blue ribbon worn by members of the highest order of knighthood, L’Ordre des chevaliers du Saint-Esprit, instituted by Henri III of France in 1578.
What does cordon mean in chicken cordon bleu?
Literally translated, “cordon bleu” means blue ribbon—meaning an award for excellence! The term also refers to thin, boneless pieces of chicken; topped with a slice of each of a variety of ham and cheese types. Traditionally, the stacks are rolled up and sauteed in a skillet.
What is the bleu in chicken cordon bleu?
What is chicken cordon bleu? The term cordon bleu (literally “blue ribbon”) was originally a title given to Chevaliers (Knights) of the Order of Saint Esprit, who all wore a special blue sash. The title eventually expanded to anyone who showed particular excellence in their field.
What is the story behind the Cordon Bleu chicken?
Chicken Cordon Bleu The truth is, while chicken cordon bleu gets its name from the French term for blue ribbon (denoting excellence), this dish actually stems from Switzerland. The base of this dish, the breaded chicken is commonly known around the world as schnitzel.
Why is cordon bleu chicken called Cordon Bleu?
To understand why it is called cordon bleu chicken, one must first look at the origins of the term itself. “Cordon Bleu” literally translates to “blue ribbon” in French. Historically, it has been associated with culinary excellence as it was awarded to chefs and restaurants that met high standards of cooking.
When did cordon bleu chicken become popular?
The dish became popular in French culinary schools and has since gained international fame. As a culinary creation, Cordon Bleu Chicken made its way into mainstream dining, especially in the United States, around the mid-20th century.
What is a similar dish to chicken Cordon Bleu?
Similar dishes to chicken cordon bleu include veal cordon bleu, where veal is used instead of chicken, and Chicken Kiev, a Russian dish that also features stuffed and breaded chicken. Both dishes are equally delicious and worth giving a try.
Is cordon bleu French?
While the name “Cordon Bleu” is undeniably French, the dish itself is not considered a traditional or classic part of French cuisine in the same way as, say, coq au vin or crème brûlée. Its exact origins are a bit murky, and the popular version we know today is more commonly associated with American or Swiss-American cooking.
Is chicken Cordon Bleu a main course?
Yes, Chicken Cordon Bleu is typically served as a main course accompanied by suitable side dishes. In conclusion, Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delectable dish that owes its name to the prestigious Cordon Bleu cooking school and its association with culinary excellence.
What does chicken Cordon Bleu taste like?
Chicken Cordon Bleu, despite its somewhat fancy name, often evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. The combination of familiar flavors like chicken, ham, and cheese creates a satisfying and comforting eating experience. It represents a kind of elevated simplicity, where basic ingredients are transformed into something special.