Looking for a fun and flavorful twist on classic meatloaf? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines tender ground chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or preparing a meal prep favorite, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 lb deli ham, sliced thin
- 1/2 lb Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the chicken mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Layer the deli ham and Swiss cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Gently fold the sides of the meatloaf over the ham and cheese to encase them.
- Drizzle the top of the meatloaf with olive oil to help with browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Kcal: 320 kcal per serving Servings: 4
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: A Twist on the Classic Comfort Food
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic dish loved for its delicious combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, often served with a creamy sauce. But what if you could enjoy all those flavors in a new and fun way? Enter Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf, a dish that brings together the savory, comforting goodness of meatloaf with the timeless flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
This innovative recipe features ground chicken as the base, which is mixed with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and a few simple seasonings. The magic happens when layers of delicate deli ham and Swiss cheese are wrapped inside the meatloaf, transforming a classic dinner into something special. When baked, the meatloaf becomes juicy, and the cheese melts into the layers, creating a mouthwatering, cheesy center that oozes out with every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: It’s a simple, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals.
- Comforting & Hearty: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese gives you all the flavors of a classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, but in a cozy meatloaf form.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, tender interior and flavorful crust are sure to be a hit with children and adults alike.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or swap the Swiss cheese for your favorite variety. Add a little garlic or fresh herbs for extra flavor!
How to Serve: Pair this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can also drizzle it with a creamy mustard or béchamel sauce for an added touch of elegance.
Storage & Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This meatloaf also freezes well – simply slice it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is great for meal prepping because it can be made ahead of time and reheated. Make it on the weekend, slice it up, and enjoy it throughout the week for lunches or quick dinners!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: The Perfect Fusion of Comfort and Elegance
Introduction: If you’re a fan of Chicken Cordon Bleu, you’re going to love this innovative twist—Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf! This dish combines the comforting, homestyle nature of meatloaf with the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, offering a deliciously unique meal that’s both hearty and elegant. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, but fancy enough for family gatherings or special occasions.
A Fusion of Classic Flavors: Traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu is a dish made with chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, usually breaded and fried. This recipe swaps the chicken breasts for ground chicken, making it easier to prepare and more suitable for a quick meal, while keeping all the signature flavors intact.
By using ground chicken as the base, the meatloaf becomes tender and juicy, while the ham and Swiss cheese create an irresistible cheesy center that melts beautifully with every slice. It’s a combination that’s hard to beat, offering comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Ground Chicken: The base of this meatloaf, providing a leaner and lighter alternative to traditional beef or pork.
- Deli Ham: Thinly sliced ham is layered into the middle of the meatloaf for that authentic Cordon Bleu flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: This mild, creamy cheese is the perfect companion to the salty ham, melting wonderfully during the cooking process.
- Breadcrumbs & Parmesan Cheese: These ingredients provide structure and flavor to the meatloaf, giving it that perfect texture.
- Egg & Milk: The binding agents that help hold the meatloaf together while keeping it moist.
- Dijon Mustard & Garlic Powder: These two ingredients add a tangy depth of flavor and a subtle kick, enhancing the overall taste of the meatloaf.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil to finish it off and ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf:
- Mix the Meatloaf: Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This mixture creates a flavorful, moist base for the meatloaf.
- Layer the Ham and Cheese: Once you’ve formed the meatloaf, layer slices of ham and Swiss cheese over the top. Gently fold the sides of the meatloaf around the filling to enclose the ham and cheese. This ensures that each slice reveals a cheesy, flavorful center.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake it at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The top will turn golden brown, and the cheese inside will melt into gooey perfection.
Serving Suggestions: This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. For an extra indulgent touch, consider serving it with a creamy mustard or béchamel sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Simple Yet Impressive: It’s easy enough for a weeknight but looks and tastes like something special. Perfect for when you want to impress guests without hours of prep.
- Comforting & Hearty: The layers of melted cheese, savory ham, and tender chicken create a filling meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful filling is a surefire hit with kids and picky eaters alike. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein while keeping things delicious.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the cheese or use turkey or beef instead of chicken if you prefer. You can even add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf:
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they’re incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice and more flavorful.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with the spices! Add some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist, or throw in a bit of paprika for a smoky note.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is the perfect dish for anyone craving the comfort of a traditional meatloaf with the added excitement of a classic Cordon Bleu. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to be a family favorite. Give it a try, and watch it become your new go-to dinner recipe!