Looking for a way to make dinner feel a little bit fancy without turning your kitchen upside down? Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is your answer! Imagine all the comforting flavors of classic chicken cordon bleu — juicy chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese — but baked up in an easy, sliceable meatloaf that everyone at the table will absolutely love. It’s a delightful twist that brings timeless flavors together in a cozy, family-friendly dish that looks stunning and tastes even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list may be simple, but each element plays an important role in building layers of flavor, keeping everything moist, and nailing that signature Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf look. These are everyday items, but put together, they create pure magic.
- Ground chicken: The foundation! It keeps the meatloaf light and tender, perfect for absorbing all the flavors.
- Plain breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together and ensures your meatloaf slices hold up beautifully.
- Large egg: Acts as a natural binder so everything sticks, and gives the right texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture, ensuring the meatloaf stays juicy from start to finish.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang that cuts through the richness and highlights the classic cordon bleu flavor.
- Garlic powder: For a touch of aromatic warmth to make those flavors pop.
- Onion powder: Adds a mellow sweetness and depth without the texture of actual onions.
- Salt: Seasons everything, making those savory notes sing.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle kick of peppery warmth.
- Deli ham: Brings that signature cordon bleu taste — choose thin slices for perfect layering.
- Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts into gooey, delicious pockets and crusts — absolutely essential.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and fresh flavor for a gorgeous final touch.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). For easy cleanup and a meatloaf that lifts out easily, line your loaf pan with parchment paper or give it a quick mist of nonstick spray. This small step saves you hassle and ensures your finished meatloaf slices come out picture-perfect.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, plain breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to mix until just combined — careful not to over-mix! You want things incorporated but not compacted, which can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Layer the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Press half of the chicken mixture into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan and gently pat it into an even layer. Next, drape your slices of deli ham right over the chicken base, followed by half of the Swiss cheese. This little “sandwich” layer is what gives Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf its irresistible flavor. Top with the remaining chicken mixture and use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should reach 165°F/74°C in the center). In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle on the remaining Swiss cheese so it melts into a bubbly, golden crown. If you love crispy edges, broil for an extra minute or two at the very end!
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Garnish
Let your meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven—this allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly, making neat, beautiful slices. Finish with a shower of freshly chopped parsley if you like a splash of green.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Garnishes
For a restaurant-worthy finish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a fresh herbal kick. Cracked black pepper or a few extra shreds of Swiss cheese melted over the top are simple but stunning. If you want to go all out, a drizzle of creamy Dijon sauce or even a touch of honey mustard on the side brings another pop of flavor to your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf slices.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf loves classic sides! Try it with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or simple steamed broccoli. A lightly dressed salad or tangy coleslaw brings refreshment to balance the rich, cheesy chicken goodness. Crusty bread for soaking up juices or a scoop of rice rounds out a comforting dinner everyone will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, slice the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf thickly and serve it atop a bed of wilted spinach, with a ladle of Dijon cream sauce gently poured over. For weeknights, stack slices on top of a piece of toast or a split baked potato for a playful, hearty twist. Leftovers make show-stopping sandwiches the next day—don’t be shy with a little extra cheese!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the meatloaf cool, then wrap slices tightly or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf stays fresh for up to 3 days and tastes just as amazing reheated.
Freezing
This meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled, unsliced portions (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then foil, or stash them in a freezer-safe bag. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient dinner down the road.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 15 to 20 minutes. If you want to bring back that gooey cheese top, add a sprinkle of Swiss cheese in the last few minutes. Microwave in short bursts if you’re in a hurry, but the oven really keeps things moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and delivers a similar texture and flavor. The end result will still be a fabulous take on Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf, with maybe just a slightly different twist in taste.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re all set. Just double-check your deli ham and Dijon mustard labels to be sure they’re gluten-free, too.
What sauce goes best with Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
A simple creamy Dijon or honey mustard sauce is wonderful, or even a drizzle of homemade béchamel if you’re feeling fancy. These sauces complement the flavors of ham, cheese, and chicken in every bite.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The most foolproof way is to check the internal temperature with a thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) right in the center. The top should be golden and the cheese bubbly, too!
Can I prep Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf ahead?
You bet! Assemble the loaf a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake straight from the fridge—just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket, ready for both cozy family meals and impressing guests. With its nostalgic flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s a slice of comfort that never goes out of style. Give it a try—you’ll love the smiles around your table!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with a twist in this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf recipe. This dish combines the classic elements of ham, Swiss cheese, and seasoned ground chicken, baked to perfection for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Filling:
- 6 slices deli ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (divided)
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
- Mix ingredients: Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Dijon mustard, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Layer: Press half of the chicken mixture into the loaf pan, add ham, Swiss cheese, and top with remaining chicken mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes until cooked through, adding cheese on top towards the end.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a crispier top, broil for 1–2 minutes after adding the cheese.
- You can substitute Gruyère for Swiss cheese if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
