Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

The Ultimate Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe for Dinner Magic

Chefs have been reimagining classic chicken cordon bleu meatloaf with unexpected twists that surprise even seasoned home cooks.

Layers of savory ham and melted swiss cheese create a decadent interior that promises comfort and excitement.

Each slice reveals a delightful combination of tender meat and rich, gooey ingredients.

The traditional meatloaf gets a seriously luxurious upgrade through this innovative preparation.

Perfectly seasoned ground chicken brings a lighter protein option to this hearty dish.

Weeknight dinners suddenly feel like special occasions when you slice into this incredible creation.

Prepare to impress everyone at the table with this mouthwatering culinary adventure.

How To Prep Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Create Meaty Magic

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Ground chicken
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend everything together with gentle love, keeping the mixture soft and tender. Preheat your oven to a toasty 350°F and prep a loaf pan with parchment paper or a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Layer Flavor Wonderland

Press half the chicken mixture into the pan. Lovingly arrange ham slices across the surface. Sprinkle a generous blanket of Swiss cheese over the ham. Crown with remaining chicken mixture, sealing the edges like a delicious treasure chest.

Step 3: Add Crunchy Topping

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and dried parsley. Shower this golden mixture across the meatloaf’s surface for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your creation into the oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes – patience rewards deliciousness!

Step 5: Whip Up Creamy Dijon Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook until lightly golden. Slowly pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper

Simmer and stir until the sauce transforms into a silky masterpiece.

Step 6: Serve and Celebrate

Slice the meatloaf into beautiful portions. Drizzle with the dreamy Dijon sauce. Complement with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Top Tips For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

  • Prevent Dry Meatloaf: Mix ground chicken gently and avoid overmixing to maintain moisture and tender texture, ensuring a juicy and delicious result.
  • Layer Strategically: Place ham and Swiss cheese evenly between chicken mixture layers to create delicious pockets of flavor and ensure consistent taste in every bite.
  • Master the Breadcrumb Topping: Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter for a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds delightful crunch and visual appeal to the meatloaf.
  • Nail the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the meatloaf reaches 75C (165F), guaranteeing perfectly cooked chicken and food safety.
  • Sauce Consistency Trick: Whisk continuously while adding liquids to the Dijon sauce to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that complements the meatloaf beautifully.

How To Store Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

  • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
  • Keep the meatloaf and sauce separately to maintain the best texture and flavor.
  • Stored properly, the meatloaf will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or place in sealed containers to prevent moisture loss.
  • When reheating, warm slices in the oven at 160C (325F) for about 15 minutes to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Always ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 74C (165F) when reheating to maintain food safety and delicious taste.

Best Side Dishes For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Complement the rich, creamy Dijon sauce and savory meatloaf with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, cutting through the dish's richness while enhancing its delicate flavors.
  • Match with Tangy Side Salad: Create balance by serving a light, zesty green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, which will brighten the meatloaf's hearty profile and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve Alongside Roasted Root Vegetables: Enhance the meal with caramelized carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, adding depth and earthy sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the chicken and Swiss cheese blend.
  • Finish with Sparkling Apple Cider: Introduce a slightly sweet, effervescent beverage that cleanses the palate and offers a gentle counterpoint to the meatloaf's dense, creamy texture.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Variations To Try

  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Meatloaf: Swap Dijon mustard for chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Add diced jalapeños and replace Swiss cheese with pepper jack. Top with salsa and serve alongside Mexican-style rice.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Meatloaf: Incorporate chopped fresh basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes into the meat mixture. Use feta cheese instead of Swiss. Serve with tzatziki sauce and Greek salad.
  • Bacon Wrapped Chicken Meatloaf: Wrap the entire meatloaf with bacon strips before baking. Brush bacon with maple syrup during last 15 minutes of cooking. Garnish with crispy bacon bits and green onions.
  • Mushroom Swiss Chicken Meatloaf: Sauté sliced mushrooms and fold into the meat mixture. Increase Swiss cheese quantity and add a layer of sautéed mushrooms between meat layers. Drizzle with additional mushroom gravy when serving.

Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Questions

FAQs for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf:

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor profile to ground chicken.

  • How can I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

The key is to not overmix the meat and to use ingredients like milk and egg that help retain moisture. Adding the Swiss cheese and ham layers also helps keep the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Not in its current form. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

  • Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the breadcrumb topping right before baking to keep it crisp.

Why Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe Is Bold And Cheesy

  • Unleash Flavor Fusion: This chicken cordon bleu meatloaf brilliantly combines classic French-inspired flavors with a comforting American meatloaf style, creating a unique and exciting dish that surprises taste buds.
  • Effortless Gourmet Cooking: The recipe transforms a traditional meatloaf into an elegant meal with minimal complex techniques, making sophisticated cooking accessible to home chefs of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Packed with layers of ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon sauce, this meatloaf delivers maximum satisfaction for both kids and adults, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
  • Versatile Meal Solution: Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe works wonderfully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, offering a delicious alternative to standard meatloaf variations.

Everything You Need For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Main Protein and Base:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean protein base for the meatloaf, providing structure and flavor.
  • Ham Slices: Classic cordon bleu ingredient, adding rich, salty flavor.
  • Swiss Cheese: Creamy, melty cheese that brings traditional cordon bleu essence.
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and adds texture.
  • Milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
  • Egg: Provides additional binding and structure.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth of savory flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: Brings tangy, sharp flavor to the dish.
Seasoning and Topping Ingredients:
  • Garlic Powder: Provides subtle, consistent garlic flavor.
  • Onion Powder: Adds mild, sweet onion undertone.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden topping.
  • Dried Parsley: Optional herb for additional flavor and color.
  • Butter: Used for moistening breadcrumb topping and sauce base.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base for the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates rich, smooth sauce texture.
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent chicken cordon bleu meatloaf merges classic comfort with gourmet flair, blending tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese. Hearty slices promise a delightful culinary journey that satisfies with each rich, cheesy bite you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein:

  • 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
  • 6 slices deli ham
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
  • 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft the meatloaf foundation by thoroughly blending ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, Dijon mustard, and seasonings in a spacious mixing vessel. Ensure ingredients harmonize without aggressive manipulation to maintain a delicate texture.
  2. Strategically layer the loaf pan with half the chicken mixture, creating a robust base for the interior elements. Carefully arrange ham slices across the initial layer, then generously distribute Swiss cheese to establish a rich, melty core.
  3. Seal the meatloaf by gently pressing the remaining chicken mixture over the ham and cheese, ensuring complete encapsulation of the inner ingredients. Smooth the surface to create an even profile.
  4. Elevate the exterior with a luxurious panko and butter coating, sprinkling the mixture uniformly across the meatloaf’s surface for a crisp, golden finish.
  5. Position the prepared meatloaf in a preheated oven calibrated to 180C. Allow it to roast for approximately 55 minutes, monitoring internal temperature until it reaches the safe threshold of 75C.
  6. While the meatloaf transforms, craft a velvety Dijon sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour to create a delicate roux. Gradually introduce chicken broth and heavy cream, incorporating Dijon mustard and aromatic seasonings.
  7. Let the meatloaf rest briefly after removing from the oven, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensure optimal moisture retention.
  8. Plate the meatloaf by slicing into generous portions and drizzling with the rich, creamy Dijon sauce. Complement the dish with complementary sides like roasted vegetables or creamy potato puree.

Notes

  • Prevent Dryness by not overmixing the ground chicken mixture, which can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked without becoming dry.
  • Create a leaner version by substituting ham with turkey ham and using low-fat Swiss cheese for a lighter protein-packed meal.
  • Enhance flavor depth by adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage into the meatloaf mixture for extra aromatic complexity.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 490
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 145 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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