This French-inspired classic transforms ordinary chicken breast into an extraordinary entrée with its combination of salty ham and nutty Swiss cheese. The crispy breaded exterior gives way to a moist interior with a melty cheese center, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
The perfect accompaniments to Chicken Cordon Bleu should balance its richness while complementing its savory profile. These four sides listed below offer a variety of textures and flavors that elevate the main dish without competing for attention.
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Side Dishes
1. Lemon Garlic Asparagus
This bright, vibrant side brings a welcome freshness to counter the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic cuts through the heaviness while accentuating the chicken’s savory notes.
Why it works: The slight bitterness of asparagus provides a sophisticated counterpoint to the richness of breaded chicken and melted cheese. The lemon adds acidity that refreshes the palate between bites, while garlic ties everything together with its savory depth.
What makes it special: This side comes together in just minutes, requiring only a hot skillet and a handful of ingredients. The bright green spears add visual appeal to the plate while offering nutritional balance to the protein-heavy main dish.
2. Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, indulgent mashed potatoes provide the ultimate comfort food companion to Chicken Cordon Bleu, creating a luxurious foundation for the crispy chicken.
Why it works: The silky texture of well-made mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior of the chicken. Their mild flavor acts as a canvas that complements rather than competes with the main dish, while their richness echoes the decadence of the ham and cheese filling.
What makes it special: Though simple in concept, truly exceptional mashed potatoes elevate the entire meal. Their capacity to absorb any sauce or juices from the chicken creates a harmonious eating experience where every element works together.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf
This aromatic side brings subtle complexity and elegant simplicity to the plate, allowing the Chicken Cordon Bleu to remain the star while providing an interesting textural element.
Why it works: The light, fluffy nature of properly prepared rice pilaf offers a more delicate alternative to heavier potato sides. The herb infusion brings freshness while complementing the savory chicken without overwhelming it.
What makes it special: Despite its sophisticated flavor profile, herbed rice pilaf requires minimal active preparation time. The varied textures from perfectly cooked rice and optional nuts provide delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Arugula Salad With Cheese
This peppery, fresh salad delivers the perfect counterpoint to rich Chicken Cordon Bleu, cleansing the palate while adding vibrant color to the plate.
Why it works: The slight bitterness and peppery notes in arugula cut through the richness of the breaded chicken and cheese. Adding cheese to the salad creates a flavor bridge to the main dish, tying the meal together with complementary notes.
What makes it special: Unlike heavier sides that might compete with the richness of Chicken Cordon Bleu, this light salad provides balance and brightness. Its simplicity belies its importance in creating a well-rounded meal experience.
Serving suggestion: Present your Chicken Cordon Bleu on a warmed plate with a small mound of herbed rice pilaf, a generous spoonful of buttery mashed potatoes, and bright spears of lemon garlic asparagus arranged alongside. Add the arugula salad to provide color contrast and freshness. A glass of crisp Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir completes this elegant yet approachable meal, too!