National Chicken Cordon Bleu Day celebrates a sophisticated dish consisting of chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. The term “cordon bleu” translates to “blue ribbon” in French, signifying excellence in culinary achievement.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 4th annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #ChickenCordonBleuDay, #NationalCordonBleuDay
- When was it founded?: First documented mention in 2005
- Who founded it?: Origin unclear, but first appeared in Michigan newspapers
History
The dish itself, while bearing a French name, is actually an American creation from the 1960s. The term “cordon bleu” originates from a 16th-century French order of knights called “Les Cordon Bleus,” who wore blue ribbons. The name eventually became associated with culinary excellence.
Timeline
- 1500s: Term “cordon bleu” first used by French knights
- 1958: First reference to veal cordon bleu in Los Angeles Times
- 1967: First mention of chicken cordon bleu in The New York Times
- 2005: First documented celebration of National Cordon Bleu Day
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April | 4 | Friday |
| 2026 | April | 4 | Saturday |
| 2027 | April | 4 | Sunday |
| 2028 | April | 4 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | April | 4 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | April | 4 | Thursday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by preparing homemade chicken cordon bleu, sharing recipes on social media, dining at French restaurants, or organizing cordon bleu-themed dinner parties.
Fun Facts About Cordon Bleu
- The dish didn’t originate at the famous Le Cordon Bleu cooking school
- Swiss versions use Emmentaler or Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss cheese
- Many cultures have adapted the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions
- The dish can be baked or air-fried for a healthier version
- Mini versions called “Cordon Bleu bites” are popular party appetizers
Quiz
- What does “cordon bleu” mean in French?
- In which year was chicken cordon bleu first mentioned in The New York Times?
- What are the three main ingredients in traditional chicken cordon bleu?
(Answers: 1. Blue ribbon 2. 1967 3. Chicken breast, ham, and cheese)
FAQs
Q: Is chicken cordon bleu French?
A: Despite its French name, it’s actually an American creation.
Q: Can it be made healthier?
A: Yes, it can be baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried.
Related
- National French Cuisine Day
- National Cheese Day
- National Fried Chicken Day
- International Cooking Day