Delectable Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Zesty Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe: A Clever Twist

Crafting a savory chicken cordon bleu meatloaf brings comfort food to exciting new heights.

Layers of ham, swiss cheese, and tender ground chicken create a mouthwatering twist on classic meatloaf.

Weeknight dinners just got way more delicious and sophisticated.

Crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that makes this dish impossible to resist.

Imagine cutting into a slice and seeing melted cheese oozing out between perfectly seasoned meat.

Succulent and rich, this recipe transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

You’ll want to bookmark this crowd-pleasing creation for your next family dinner.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf to Try

  • Reinvent Classic Comfort: Transform the traditional chicken cordon bleu into a hearty meatloaf that delivers all the beloved flavors in an easy-to-serve format.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe with different cheese types or add herbs to make it uniquely yours, perfect for home cooks who love personalization.
  • Family-Friendly Fusion: Combine kid-approved meatloaf with the sophisticated taste of ham and Swiss cheese, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies both children and adults.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Prepare this dish ahead of time, store in the refrigerator, and bake when ready, making it an ideal option for busy households seeking convenient dinner solutions.

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Main Protein:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile protein that serves as the base for the meatloaf.
  • Ham: A savory meat that adds rich flavor and classic Cordon Bleu character to the dish.
Cheese:
  • Swiss Cheese: A mild, smooth cheese that melts beautifully and provides creamy texture to the meatloaf.
Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg, Milk: These ingredients help bind the meatloaf together and maintain a tender, moist texture.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the meatloaf.
Topping:
  • Dijon Mustard, Mayonnaise: A tangy and creamy mixture that adds moisture and a zesty finish to the top of the meatloaf.

How to Prepare Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a loaf pan and either grease it thoroughly or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Meat Blend

Combine ground chicken with the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend everything until ingredients are fully incorporated and create a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Layer First Meat Base

Spread half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.

Press down gently to create an even, compact layer.

Step 4: Add Delicious Filling

Create a delectable middle layer by adding:
  • Thin ham slices
  • Swiss cheese slices

Arrange these ingredients carefully across the first meat layer.

Step 5: Complete Meatloaf Construction

Cover the ham and cheese with remaining meat mixture. Smooth the top surface carefully to seal the filling inside.

Step 6: Craft Tangy Topping

Whisk together Dijon mustard and mayonnaise in a small bowl. Spread this zesty mixture evenly across the meatloaf’s surface.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Place meatloaf in preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Allow meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven. Slice and serve your mouthwatering creation hot.

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf

  • Use lean ground chicken for a healthier twist, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.
  • Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and minimal cleanup after baking.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.
  • Experiment with different cheese options like provolone or mozzarella for unique flavor variations.
  • Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich, creamy texture of the meatloaf.

Flavor Twists on Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Turkey Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Replace ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner protein option, maintaining the same flavor profile and cooking method.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Substitute breadcrumbs with finely riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrate content, keeping the classic ham and cheese layers intact.
  • Vegetarian Cordon Bleu Loaf
  • Gluten-Free Herb Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Replace traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour, ensuring the same texture and adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.

Pairings to Enjoy with Meatloaf

  • Picnic Perfect Slice: Pack individual meatloaf slices in lunch containers with fresh salad greens for a delightful portable meal that stays moist and flavorful.
  • Cheesy Comfort Plate: Serve warm slices alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans to create a comforting dinner that highlights the rich ham and Swiss cheese flavors.
  • Wine Pairing Feast: Match this meatloaf with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, which complements the tangy Dijon mustard and balances the meat's richness.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Transform leftover slices into a weekend brunch star by topping them with a sunny-side-up egg and fresh chopped herbs for an elegant morning twist.

Best Storage for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze whole meatloaf or individual slices for up to 2-3 months by placing in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
  • Reheat refrigerated meatloaf in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive drying and maintain juiciness.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor profile for this meatloaf.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in the egg, milk, and use breadcrumbs to help retain moisture. Don’t overmix the meat and avoid overcooking to keep the meatloaf juicy.

  • What can I use if I don't have Swiss cheese?

Provolone or mild white cheddar cheese are excellent alternatives that will melt nicely and provide a similar creamy texture.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a replacement.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Delectable Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Delectable Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent chicken cordon bleu meatloaf combines classic comfort food with elegant French-inspired flavors. Ham and Swiss cheese create a rich, savory center that delivers hearty satisfaction when you slice into this comforting main dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) ground chicken
  • 4 ounces (4 oz) deli ham slices
  • 4 ounces (4 oz) Swiss cheese slices

Binding and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk

Seasoning and Sauce:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a loaf pan with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
  2. Combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and seasonings in a mixing bowl, blending thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Transfer half of the meat mixture into the prepared pan, carefully pressing and creating an even, compact layer.
  4. Arrange ham slices across the initial meat layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Place Swiss cheese slices directly on top of the ham, creating a uniform cheese layer.
  6. Gently cover the cheese and ham with remaining meat mixture, smoothing the surface to seal the filling completely.
  7. Whisk Dijon mustard and mayonnaise together, then generously spread the creamy mixture across the meatloaf’s top surface.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, verifying doneness by checking that internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
  9. Remove from oven and allow meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes, which helps stabilize the structure and makes slicing easier.
  10. Slice and serve warm, revealing the delicious ham and cheese center.

Notes

  • Customize the meatloaf by swapping ground chicken with turkey or lean beef for varied protein options.
  • Reduce breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Use low-fat ham and Swiss cheese to create a lighter version of this indulgent dish without compromising flavor.
  • Add finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star