Chicken Cordon Bleu stands out as a dinner favorite due to its rich combination of chicken, ham, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. The right side dishes are essential, not just for complementing these flavors but for turning a simple meal into a feast. Selecting the perfect accompaniments ensures every bite is balanced and satisfying, enhancing the main dish’s textures and tastes without overpowering it. In this guide, we’ll share a variety of side dishes to serve with your Chicken Cordon Bleu, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Table of Contents
Starchy Sides to Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu
Starchy sides offer comforting textures and flavors that complement the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Let’s explore some popular options that can elevate your meal.
Rice Dishes
Butter rice is a classic choice that provides a subtle, comforting flavor, acting as a perfect backdrop to the rich sauces often paired with Chicken Cordon Bleu. For those looking to add a bit more flair, garlic parmesan rice introduces a savory burst that resonates well with the cheesy elements of the main dish.
Potato Dishes
Potatoes are a versatile side that can be adapted in various delicious forms. Garlic mashed potatoes blend creaminess with a rich garlic punch, making them a hearty companion to Chicken Cordon Bleu. If time is of the essence, microwave mashed potatoes are a speedy alternative that still delivers on taste and texture. For a more indulgent option, scalloped potatoes with their layers of creamy, tender slices, add a luxurious dimension to your meal.
Pasta
Often an unexpected choice, pasta can be a light yet satisfying addition. Parmesan garlic butter pasta, with its subtle flavors, does not overshadow the main dish but rather complements the creamy and savory notes of the cordon bleu.
Vegetable Sides to Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu
Vegetable sides not only introduce a nutritional aspect to your meal but also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Here’s how to incorporate them effectively.
Green Vegetables
Steamed broccoli and green beans are excellent choices for a lighter, vibrant side. The mild flavor of broccoli complements the umami of the cordon bleu, while green beans with almonds add a crunchy texture and nutty taste that enhances the dish. These greens provide a visual and textural contrast, making your plate more appealing and balanced.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a cornerstone for an aromatic and hearty side. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and a mix of marinated vegetables can be roasted to caramelized perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and depth. This roasting process intensifies their flavors, which stands up well to the savory notes of the chicken.
Salads
For those seeking a lighter touch, salads like a carrot raisin salad or a Caesar salad add a crisp and refreshing element. The carrot raisin salad offers a sweet and slightly tangy profile, which pairs wonderfully with the saltiness of the cordon bleu. A well-dressed Caesar salad, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, complements without overwhelming the main course.
Each of these vegetable sides provides a distinct flavor and texture that can elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu from a simple dish to a well-rounded meal. Choosing the right vegetable side depends on your taste preferences and the overall balance you want to achieve with your meal.
Unique Sides to Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu
Exploring unique side dishes can transform your Chicken Cordon Bleu meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Here are some inventive options that add flair and surprise to your dinner table.
Zucchini Fries
A healthier alternative to traditional French fries, zucchini fries offer a crispy texture without the guilt of deep frying. Baked or air-fried, they are seasoned to perfection and can be dipped in a light herbed yogurt or a spicy aioli to enhance their flavor.
Creamed Spinach
For a touch of elegance and richness, creamed spinach is a superb choice. Its creamy texture pairs excellently with the crispy exterior of Chicken Cordon Bleu. The subtle earthiness of spinach contrasts nicely with the salty ham and creamy cheese filling of the main dish, bringing a balanced richness to your meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a colorful and versatile side dish. They can be filled with a mixture of cheeses, rice, and spices, or even include meat for added substance. The peppers themselves roast to a soft consistency, offering a sweet contrast to the savory fillings and complementing the textures of the cordon bleu.
These unique sides are not just about taste but also about making your meal visually appealing and gastronomically satisfying. They introduce new textures and flavors that make your dinner more interesting and enjoyable.
FAQ
What are the best quick side dishes for chicken cordon bleu?
For those short on time, quick side dishes like microwave sweet potatoes or a simple green salad are ideal. Microwave sweet potatoes are easy to prepare and offer a sweet, soft complement to the crunchy chicken. Green salads, dressed lightly, provide a fresh counterbalance to the rich flavors of the main dish.
How can I make a side dish more flavorful?
Enhancing the flavor of a side dish can be as simple as incorporating herbs, spices, or cheese. For instance, adding fresh rosemary to roasted potatoes or a sprinkle of Parmesan on steamed vegetables can elevate the dish significantly. These additions bring depth and can tie the sides beautifully with the main course.
What are some low-carb side options?
For a low-carb approach, consider vegetables like zucchini noodles or a roasted radish salad. Zucchini noodles are light and can be seasoned in various ways, while roasted radishes offer a delightful crunch and peppery flavor, making them excellent for balancing the creamy and meaty textures of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right side dishes for Chicken Cordon Bleu is key to creating a memorable and balanced meal. Whether you opt for starchy sides like garlic mashed potatoes, vegetable accompaniments like roasted Brussels sprouts, or unique options like zucchini fries, the goal is to complement the rich, savory flavors of the main dish without overwhelming it. Remember, the variety and preparation of side dishes can enhance the dining experience by adding different textures and flavors that resonate with every palate.
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