When it comes to elevating a dish like Cordon Bleu, finding the perfect accompaniments can make all the difference. The harmonious combination of chicken filling, Swiss cheese, and crispy batter is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser.
But what really takes this classic dish to the next level are its expertly paired side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and adventurous, there’s an array of options that can complement Cordon Bleu’s rich flavors.
From humble roasted carrots to decadent garlic butter rice, here are 15 mouthwatering side dishes that will make your taste buds sing in harmony with this beloved dish.
Balsamic Green Beans
When it comes to pairing green beans with Chicken Cordon Bleu, we recommend taking the flavor up a notch by incorporating balsamic vinegar into your side dish. The tangy twist adds depth and complexity to the dish, allowing you to enjoy the natural sweetness of the green beans alongside the savory chicken.
With this recipe, you’ll not only get the added texture and pop of color from the green beans, but also a rich sauce made with sautéed onions, sugar, and chicken broth – a trifecta that perfectly complements the Cordon Bleu.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a culinary chameleon that effortlessly pairs with an array of main courses, including chicken Cordon Bleu. The comforting warmth and soothing texture make them an ideal accompaniment. To craft this versatile side dish, combine fresh potatoes with milk and butter. For added depth of flavor, introduce garlic and cheese, which harmoniously complement the Gruyère in your Cordon Bleu. This creamy delight is a match made in heaven.
Steamed Broccoli
One of the best ways to enhance the flavor and visual appeal of chicken Cordon Bleu is by pairing it with a variety of colorful vegetables. The addition of bell peppers, steamed broccoli, or even sautéed spinach adds texture and vibrancy to the dish. Broccoli, in particular, offers a subtle yet complementary flavor profile that allows the rich, umami taste of the chicken Cordon Bleu to shine through.
You’re free to choose your preferred type of broccoli – classic sprouts or fine stem varieties – to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Sauces
When it comes to serving chicken Cordon Bleu, you don’t have to stick to traditional sides. Instead, consider pairing your dish with a variety of flavorful sauces that complement its rich and creamy elements. From classic ketchup and BBQ sauce to tangy Dijon mustard or spicy mustard, the options are endless. You can think of these sauces as a way to add an extra layer of depth and complexity to your meal, much like you would with any other dish.
And because chicken Cordon Bleu is already a decadent treat, adding a little extra something on the side won’t overpower its natural flavors. In fact, the creamy cheese and spices can actually be enhanced by the right sauce – think Dijon mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Of course, the beauty of serving sauces with chicken Cordon Bleu lies in the freedom to experiment and find your own favorite pairings.
Try pairing it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad – the possibilities are endless.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
When it comes to pairing chicken Cordon Bleu with a side dish, sweet potatoes are an excellent choice. Rather than relying on traditional mashed or cheesy options, consider baking sweet potatoes instead. This method yields a delightful contrast of textures – a crispy outside and a fluffy interior. The best part? Baking sweet potatoes is incredibly straightforward. Simply whisk together the ingredients, including oil and herbs, then pop them in the oven.
For an added boost of flavor, you can’t go wrong with a pat of extra butter or some savory garlic. With its natural sweetness and satisfying texture, baked sweet potatoes make a perfect accompaniment to this classic dish.
Parmesan Garlic Butter Pasta
If you’re a pasta enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that it can be easily paired with chicken Cordon Bleu. The rich flavors of the creamy pasta perfectly complement the savory cheese in your Cordon Bleu schnitzel, creating a well-rounded and satisfying combination. What’s more, the leftover pasta can be repurposed as a main course for the next day, making this dish an excellent choice for meal prep or cooking ahead of time.
To make garlic butter pasta with Parmesan cheese, you won’t need to dirty multiple pots, as it’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal extra equipment.
Roasted Parsnips
Parsnips are an unsung hero of the vegetable world, but they’re a game-changer when it comes to adding depth and warmth to a meal. When paired with chicken and chicken Cordon Bleu, roasted parsnips bring a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. By roasting them with aromatic herbs and a squeeze of lemon, you can elevate this humble veggie into a delicious side dish that complements the richness of the chicken. The best part?
You can prepare the parsnips simultaneously while your chicken Cordon Bleu is cooking, ensuring everything is ready to serve together.
Garlic Butter Rice
The indulgent combination of chicken meat, batter, and rich cheese in Chicken Cordon Bleu makes it an inherently satisfying dish. To strike a balance, it’s essential to pair it with something lighter or starchy that can offset the heaviness of the carbs. A classic solution is to serve it alongside a portion of fluffy rice. The simplicity of this side dish belies its effectiveness, as the starch and subtle flavor of the rice provide a pleasant contrast to the bold flavors of the Cordon Bleu.
For an added layer of depth, consider adding some garlic butter to give the rice an aromatic boost. When combined with the Cordon Bleu, this duo makes for a well-rounded and filling meal.
Fresh Salad
A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with Cordon Bleu is a fresh and vibrant salad. This versatile option complements the rich flavors of the chicken dish, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables and a drizzle of dressing for added depth. For an extra burst of flavor, consider incorporating some fruit into your mix – the tangy sweetness will provide a delightful contrast to the savory Cordon Bleu.
Additionally, salads are incredibly light, ensuring that you won’t feel overwhelmed by the carb-heavy main course. With this thoughtful side dish, you’ll have a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Roasted Carrots
While carrots are often enjoyed raw as a healthy snack, they also shine when cooked. In fact, roasted carrots make a fantastic side dish that pairs perfectly with flavors like those found in chicken Cordon Bleu. The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness in carrots, making them an ideal addition to any meal. Take it to the next level by incorporating aromatics like garlic and herbs into your carrot preparation.
Not only will this add depth of flavor, but it will also introduce a pop of vibrant orange color to your plate.
Mushroom Risotto
While Cordon Bleu is certainly a satisfying meal on its own, it truly shines when paired with a rich and flavorful side dish – particularly when hunger pangs are at their peak. Mushroom risotto, with its creamy texture and depth of flavor, proves the perfect accompaniment to this classic dish.
The harmonious union of chicken and mushrooms elevates the overall culinary experience, transforming your Cordon Bleu from a humble meal into an elegant affair fit for family gatherings or special occasions. For an added touch of luxury, consider sprinkling shaved truffles over the risotto for an opulent finish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
While it’s true that Brussels sprouts are often associated with the holiday season, their unique flavor profile is worth exploring beyond Christmas dinner. When roasted gently, these green veggies undergo a remarkable transformation, shedding their earthy taste and taking on a nutty, caramelized quality that complements a wide range of dishes.
One such pairing is Cordon Bleu, where the subtle bitterness of the Brussels sprouts provides a delightful contrast to the rich, chicken-y flavor of the dish. For added depth, consider wrapping your sprouts in cheese or bacon for an indulgent twist. Best of all, roasted Brussels sprouts are surprisingly quick to prepare, making them an ideal option for a last-minute side dish or a speedy snack.
Asparagus In Lemon Butter Sauce
Asparagus brings a plethora of vitamins and minerals to the table, elevating your side dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Its crunchy texture also adds depth to dishes like Cordon Bleu. While asparagus can be mild on its own, it’s incredibly receptive to a wide range of flavors – think fragrant herbs and zesty lemon butter. The harmonious union of tangy lemon and rich butter creates a match made in heaven, making it an ideal accompaniment to your Cordon Bleu.
For the best results, be sure to use asparagus when it’s in season during spring, when its natural flavors are at their peak.
Final Thoughts
While chicken Cordon Bleu is a rich and decadent dish on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side options that complement its creamy, savory flavors.
From the earthy sweetness of mushroom risotto to the bright, green crunch of asparagus or the comforting simplicity of a well-cooked rice dish, there are countless ways to round out this impressive main course.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.