Blue-Ribbon Chicken
Blue-Ribbon Chicken features tender chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, coated with seasoned bread crumbs, offering a savory, cheesy delight perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- To form a pocket, cut each chicken breast in half horizontally, almost but not all the way through.
- Cut each ham and cheese slice lengthwise in half.
- Place a slice of ham and cheese in each pocket of the chicken breasts.
- Combine the seasoned dried bread crumbs and paprika in a small bowl.
- Brush each chicken breast with melted butter or margarine.
- Coat the buttered chicken breasts with the seasoned bread crumbs mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary inside the chicken pockets. If Jackstring or Muenster cheese isn't available, Swiss cheese can be a great substitute. Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy; using a meat thermometer can help achieve perfectly cooked chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Blue-Ribbon Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with My Own Famous Chicken Salad(Formerly A Secret Recipe) for a delightful lunch option. A light sauce, such as a lemon butter sauce, can elevate the dish even further.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain the chicken's moisture and crispiness from the bread crumb coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue-Ribbon Chicken contains roughly 111 calories, with 8g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Jackstring or Muenster cheese works well, other cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or provolone can be used. Just ensure the cheese melts well to complement the flavors of the chicken and ham.
How can I ensure the chicken stays moist during cooking?
To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Brining the chicken for a few hours before cooking can also help retain moisture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the ham and cheese and coat it with bread crumbs a few hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to adjust cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).