Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Juicy Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe: Comfort Food Magic

Crafting a delightful chicken cordon bleu meatloaf brings comfort food to new heights of deliciousness.

Layers of savory ham and melted swiss cheese nestle inside tender ground chicken.

Familiar flavors merge into a surprising culinary creation that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

Traditional meatloaf gets a gourmet makeover with this elegant twist on a classic dish.

Juicy meat combines with rich, creamy cheese for a mouthwatering experience that will impress everyone at the table.

Weeknight dinners just became more exciting with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

You’ll want to slice into this golden-brown masterpiece and savor every single bite.

  • Rustic Family Dinner Delight
  • Serve this hearty meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting family meal that brings everyone together.
  • Elegant Dinner Party Centerpiece
  • Slice the meatloaf into beautiful medallions and plate with roasted asparagus and a light herb salad, creating a sophisticated presentation that impresses guests.
  • Sandwich Lover's Dream
  • Transform leftover meatloaf into delicious cold sandwiches with crisp lettuce, tangy mustard, and Swiss cheese on crusty artisan bread for a quick lunch option.
  • Picnic Perfect Protein
  • Pack sliced meatloaf wedges with a small container of honey mustard dipping sauce for an easy portable meal perfect for outdoor adventures and picnics.

Storing Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Properly

  • Store leftover chicken cordon bleu meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Warm slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

FAQs

  • What makes this meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?

This version combines classic meatloaf with the flavors of chicken cordon bleu by layering ham and Swiss cheese inside the ground chicken mixture, creating a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute and will give you similar results with nearly identical texture and cooking method.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this meatloaf?

No special equipment is required – just a standard loaf pan or baking sheet, mixing bowl, and basic kitchen tools like a spatula and measuring cups.

  • How can I tell if the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), which ensures the ground chicken is safely cooked through.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf’s Unique Flavor

  • Speed Up Meal Prep: These French Dip Sliders come together quickly with minimal ingredients and simple assembly, making them perfect for busy families or last-minute gatherings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with tender roast beef, melted provolone, and a savory butter sauce, these sliders deliver irresistible flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
  • Versatile Party Starter: Great for game day, potlucks, movie nights, or casual get-togethers, these sliders are easy to serve and guaranteed to disappear fast from the serving plate.
  • Customizable Delight: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping roast beef with turkey, adding different cheese varieties, or experimenting with additional seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Ingredients For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

For the Proteins:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean meat that provides the base structure and flavor for the meatloaf.
  • Ham: Adds a classic salty and rich taste to the center of the meatloaf.
  • Swiss Cheese: Brings a creamy, mild flavor and helps create a gooey center.
  • Egg: Helps bind the meatloaf ingredients together and provides moisture.
For the Dry Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps to keep the meatloaf tender and adds structure.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, savory flavor to the chicken mixture.
For the Seasonings and Liquids:
  • Milk, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Mustard, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor profile and keep the meatloaf moist and well-seasoned.
  • Melted Butter: Creates a golden, crispy exterior when brushed on top of the meatloaf.

Cooking Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare Oven Temperature

Heat your oven to a perfect 375°F (190°C), ensuring an ideal cooking environment for your meatloaf.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Chicken Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
  • Ground chicken
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend these ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf Base

Transfer the chicken mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or carefully mold it into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet, creating a smooth, even surface.

Step 4: Add Delicious Filling

Strategically layer slices of ham and Swiss cheese directly in the center of the meatloaf.

Gently fold the chicken mixture’s edges over the filling, completely encasing the ham and cheese.

Step 5: Enhance with Butter Glaze

Generously brush the top of the meatloaf with melted butter, adding a rich, golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Confirm doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful slice.

Cut and serve to eager diners.

Insider Tips For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Swap ground chicken with ground turkey for a similar lean protein option with identical texture and flavor profile.
  • Ensure ham and cheese layers are thin and evenly distributed to prevent dense pockets inside the meatloaf.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of store-bought for lighter, more tender meatloaf texture and enhanced moisture retention.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety and prevent overcooking, which can dry out the chicken mixture.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or gruyère for unique flavor variations that complement the ham and chicken combination.

Creative Versions Of Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Keto-Friendly Spin: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, use low-fat ham, and add extra cheese for a low-carb version packed with protein.
  • Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and oregano into the chicken mixture for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Version: Mix diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese into the chicken blend, creating a zesty and fiery meatloaf experience.
  • Herb Garden Remix: Blend fresh chopped basil, thyme, and rosemary into the ground chicken for an aromatic and fragrant alternative.
Print
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


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4.7 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory chicken cordon bleu meatloaf combines classic comfort with French-inspired flavors. Swiss cheese and ham create a luxurious center that elevates this hearty dish for home cooks seeking delicious dinner options.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 oz Swiss cheese
  • 4 oz sliced ham
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C), preparing a 9×5-inch loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Parmesan, seasonings, creating a cohesive meat mixture.
  3. Spread the chicken blend into the prepared pan, forming an even rectangular base.
  4. Create a central channel in the meat mixture, carefully arranging alternating layers of ham and Swiss cheese.
  5. Gently fold the chicken mixture over the cheese and ham, sealing the filling completely within the meatloaf.
  6. Drizzle melted butter across the surface, ensuring even coverage for a golden, crispy exterior.
  7. Position the meatloaf in the preheated oven, baking for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature precisely hits 165F (74C).
  8. Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and enhance overall flavor.
  9. Slice carefully and serve immediately, revealing the rich, cheesy interior.

Notes

  • Swap ground chicken with ground turkey for a different protein profile while maintaining a similar texture and lean quality.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
  • Reduce cheese and ham portions for a lighter version, perfect for those watching calorie intake without compromising flavor.
  • Create a crispy golden top by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese before baking, which adds a delightful crunchy texture and enhanced cheesy taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 337 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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