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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Elevate the exterior with a luxurious panko and butter coating, sprinkling the mixture uniformly across the meatloaf’s surface for a crisp, golden finish.
- 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.
- 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.
- Let the meatloaf rest briefly after removing from the oven, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensure optimal moisture retention.
- 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