Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe – Homestyle Magic

Comfort food takes a delightful twist with this chicken cordon bleu meatloaf that blends classic flavors into one mouthwatering dish.

Tender ground chicken meets the rich, creamy essence of swiss cheese and savory ham.

Each slice promises a delectable blend of traditional meatloaf and the beloved French-inspired chicken cordon bleu.

The combination creates a hearty meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Layers of melted cheese and smoky ham peek through each perfectly seasoned bite.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf, Why You’ll Like It

  • Craft Comfort Classic: Transform traditional meatloaf into a gourmet chicken cordon bleu experience with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Quick Family Pleaser: Packed with protein and cheesy goodness, this dish satisfies hungry family members while being simple to prepare and customize.
  • Elevated Weeknight Dinner: Combines elegant French-inspired flavors with everyday ingredients, turning an ordinary meal into something special without complicated techniques.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Easily reheats for delicious leftovers and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy households seeking convenient, nutritious meals.

What’s Inside Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Main Protein:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean meat that provides the base for the meatloaf's structure and flavor.
  • Ham Slices: Classic deli meat that adds a savory and salty element to the dish.
Cheese:
  • Swiss Cheese: Mild and creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds richness to the meatloaf.
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg, Milk: Essential components that help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist.
Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that enhance the overall taste and provide depth of flavor.
Sauce:
  • Dijon Mustard: Tangy condiment that adds a zesty and sharp flavor to complement the meat and cheese.

Steps to Bake Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Warm up the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Chicken Mixture

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

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Build First Meat Layer

Press half of the chicken mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating a solid base for the filling.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Ham Layer

Carefully arrange ham slices over the first meat layer, then top with Swiss cheese for a classic cordon bleu flavor profile.

Step 5: Spread Mustard Flavor

Drizzle Dijon mustard over the cheese layer, ensuring even coverage to enhance the overall taste.

Step 6: Complete Meatloaf Structure

Gently spread the remaining chicken mixture over the cheese and ham, pressing down firmly to seal the edges and create a complete meatloaf.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes.

Confirm doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.

Slice and serve hot.

Tips for Chicken Meatloaf Success

  • Press meat mixture firmly to prevent cheese and ham from leaking during baking.
  • Select high-quality deli ham and Swiss cheese for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe 165°F without overcooking.
  • Pat ham and chicken dry before layering to prevent soggy meatloaf.
  • Allow meatloaf to sit 10 minutes after baking to help it hold shape and retain juices.

Meatloaf Variations for Extra Flavor

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, use low-carb ham, and swap milk for heavy cream to create a low-carb chicken cordon bleu meatloaf.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute Swiss cheese with feta, replace ham with prosciutto, and add dried oregano and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds instead of traditional breadcrumbs, ensuring the recipe remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Variation: Mix diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture, use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss, and add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Plating Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Creatively

  • Dinner Party Delight: Serve slices alongside roasted vegetables or crisp green salad for an elegant meal presentation.
  • Comfort Combo Plate: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus to create a hearty, satisfying dinner experience.
  • Sandwich Style Spin: Slice cold meatloaf and stack between crusty bread with lettuce and extra mustard for next-day lunch enjoyment.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the rich flavors with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio for balanced taste.

Keeping Chicken Meatloaf Fresh for Leftovers

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality and taste.
  • Place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place meatloaf slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

  • Is chicken cordon bleu meatloaf healthy?

Packed with protein from chicken and moderate amounts of cheese and ham, this dish offers a balanced meal. While nutritious, it contains some saturated fat, so enjoy in moderation.

  • Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground beef work great as substitutes for ground chicken. Just ensure the meat is fresh and cooked to the proper internal temperature.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in milk and egg to keep the ground chicken moist. Also, avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature and letting it rest after baking to retain juices.

  • Do I need any special kitchen tools for this recipe?

No special equipment required. A standard loaf pan, mixing bowl, and basic measuring tools are all you need to create this delicious meatloaf.

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
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent chicken cordon bleu meatloaf blends classic comfort with gourmet flair, wrapping tender chicken around savory ham and melted Swiss cheese. Hearty slices promise a delightful dinner that satisfies both traditional and adventurous palates.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground chicken
  • 6 slices deli ham
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly coat a loaf pan with cooking spray.
  2. Combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, thoroughly blending all ingredients.
  3. Carefully distribute half of the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating a uniform base layer.
  4. Arrange ham slices in a neat, overlapping pattern directly on top of the initial meat layer.
  5. Distribute Swiss cheese slices uniformly over the ham, ensuring complete coverage.
  6. Spread Dijon mustard in a thin, consistent layer across the cheese surface.
  7. Gently place the remaining chicken mixture over the cheese and mustard, carefully sealing the edges to create a complete enclosure.
  8. Transfer the loaf pan to the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  9. Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes, which helps maintain moisture and makes slicing easier.
  10. Slice and serve the meatloaf warm, revealing the delicious ham and cheese center.

Notes

  • Ensure ground chicken is fresh and lean for optimal texture and flavor profile.
  • Pat ham and cheese dry before layering to prevent excess moisture in the meatloaf.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check internal temperature, avoiding overcooking.
  • Try different cheese varieties like provolone or gruyère for unique taste variations.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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