This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s made with ground chicken, ham, and melted cheese, all rolled into a flavorful meatloaf. Yum!
The best part? It’s quick to make, and you’ll love the gooey cheese in every bite! I like to serve mine with some mashed potatoes on the side. Comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the dish. If you’d like a leaner option, turkey also works well. You can even use a mixture of ground meats like chicken and turkey for added flavor.
Onions: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth. If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute with onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) or use shallots for a milder flavor.
Deli Ham: I find that thinly sliced deli ham is convenient and tasty, but you can also swap it with turkey ham or even cooked bacon for a smokier flavor. Just make sure everything is thinly sliced!
Swiss or Gruyère Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully in this recipe, but feel free to use mozzarella or even cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work, but you can choose panko for added crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free meal.
How Do I Layer the Meatloaf for Maximum Flavor?
The layering technique is key to achieving that classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by shaping half of your meat mixture into a flat rectangular shape.
- Evenly layer with half of the ham and cheese slices. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of the flavor comes from!
- Add the other half of the meat mixture on top. Press down gently to seal those edge openings.
- Top off with more ham and cheese—this is the tasty surprise waiting inside!
- Make sure the layers are evenly spaced and sealed well to keep all the goodness inside as it bakes.
Additionally, letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep it moist and allows for easier slicing. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6-8 slices deli ham
- 6-8 slices Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 55-65 minutes of baking time. After that, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Altogether, you’ll need about an hour and a half from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a loaf pan or, for easier cleanup, line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Meat Loaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onions, minced garlic, half of the chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix it gently until everything is combined. Just be careful not to overmix, as that can make your meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Meat Mixture:
Now, take about half of your meat mixture and pat it into an oval shape or a loaf onto a clean parchment-lined surface or shaping tray.
4. Add the Layers of Ham and Cheese:
Evenly layer with half of the ham slices, followed by half of the cheese slices. This will give your meatloaf that amazing Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor!
5. Top with Remaining Meat Mixture:
Take the remaining meat mixture and cover the layers you just created. Flatten it out slightly so it’s even.
6. Finish with More Ham and Cheese:
Add another layer of ham and cheese on top. Ensure you seal the edges nicely so all the yummy filling stays inside while baking!
7. Place in the Loaf Pan:
Carefully move your shaped meatloaf into the prepared loaf pan.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This will create a delicious, caramelized topping.
9. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. You can check if it’s done by inserting a thermometer into the center; it should read 165°F (74°C).
10. Let it Rest:
After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and helps keep all those juices inside.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with the remaining chopped parsley before slicing. Serve your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
This chicken cordon bleu meatloaf features layers of juicy ground chicken with savory ham and melted cheese inside, all glazed with a sweet-savory topping. It’s a delicious twist on the classic chicken cordon bleu that your family will love. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and can provide a slightly different flavor while still keeping the dish light and delicious. Just ensure it’s fully cooked to the same temperature as chicken.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Meatloaf?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some spices like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. Mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese can also enhance the taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can easily make this meatloaf dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and opting for dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that melt well, making it a suitable swap for this recipe.