I’m so excited to share my Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with you! This dish is one of those delightful surprises that combines two seemingly different classics—chicken cordon bleu and meatloaf—into a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell incredible, and it always earns rave reviews from family and friends.
I remember the first time I tried to make this dish. I wanted to impress my friends with something unique for dinner, and let’s just say, the looks on their faces when I presented a beautiful, cheese-filled meatloaf were priceless! They weren’t sure whether to ask if it was a meatloaf or a heartier take on chicken cordon bleu, but once they dug in, they quickly understood that I had created something special. It’s unique, indulgent, and unbelievably delicious—what’s not to love?
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our meatloaf. You can use lean ground chicken to keep it on the healthier side, or go for the standard ground chicken for a juicier outcome.
Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham adds that amazing saltiness and flavor reminiscent of traditional chicken cordon bleu. I personally love using honey ham for that perfect sweet-salty balance!
Swiss Cheese: The gooey, melty Swiss cheese is what really pulls this meatloaf together. It adds creaminess and a bit of a nutty flavor. You could also use Gruyère for an extra touch of sophistication.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold your meatloaf together while keeping it tender. I like to use plain breadcrumbs, but if you have herbed ones on hand, go right ahead; that will add an extra layer of flavor.
Egg: The binding agent of the group! It helps keep the meatloaf together while cooking and adds moisture.
Mustard: A bit of Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick that really elevates the overall flavor profile. Trust me, don’t skip this!
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Good for You?
This meatloaf can be a healthier option compared to traditional meatloafs, especially since we’re using ground chicken instead of beef or pork.
Ground Chicken: Lower in fat and calories, ground chicken is a fantastic lean protein source, making it a good option for health-conscious eaters.
Ham: While delicious, ham can be high in sodium and nitrates, so it’s worth considering how much you add.
Swiss Cheese: It adds calcium and protein, but keep in mind it’s also higher in fat, so use it judiciously.
Overall, this meatloaf can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with plenty of vegetables on the side!
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
– 8 ounces thinly sliced deli ham
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
– Cooking spray (for greasing the loaf pan)
*Yields: 6-8 servings*
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
3. In a separate bowl, lay out the ham slices to create a nice “bed” in the pan. Leave some overhang so you can fold it over later.
4. Once the meat mixture is ready, layer half of it over the ham in the loaf pan.
5. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the meat layer, then add the remaining ham slices on top of the cheese.
6. Finally, add the rest of the meat mixture, pressing it down gently, and fold the ham slices over the top to seal in all that cheesy goodness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The edges should be golden and the top slightly crisp.
8. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm!
A Few Extra Tips for Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
– If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey instead of chicken—the flavor will still be fantastic.
– You can swap the Swiss cheese for cheddar or even pepper jack cheese for a little heat!
– This meatloaf goes perfectly with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. I sometimes make a simple side salad to bring in some freshness.
– Feel free to turn leftovers into sandwiches; they make divine lunchtime treats!
I really hope you give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf a shot! It’s such a fun twist on classic flavors, and I would love to hear how it turns out for you. Food is a great way to bring people together, and trust me, this dish will do just that! Don’t forget to share your experience or any cool twists you added. Happy cooking!
