If you adore the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu but are looking for a comforting, family-friendly twist, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender ground chicken blended with savory garlic and onion, wrapped around layers of smoky Black Forest ham and creamy Swiss cheese, all baked into a juicy meatloaf topped with a golden buttery crumb crust. To top it off, a rich, cheesy Dijon sauce makes every bite irresistibly flavorful. This recipe brilliantly combines elegance and homestyle comfort in one dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the foundation for making this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe sing. Each component adds its own magic—whether it’s the sharpness of Dijon mustard, the nuttiness of Parmesan, or the satisfying crunch from panko crumbs—working together to create a luscious texture and complex flavors.
- 2 lbs ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps this meatloaf tender and moist without overwhelming heaviness.
- ½ small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meat mixture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic punch that elevates every savory bite.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as the perfect binder to hold everything together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds tang and a bit of kick inside the meat and also in the sauce later.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Offers a salty, slightly sharp note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, divided: Half mixes into the meat to keep it light, and the other half combines with butter to create a crispy topping.
- 6 slices Black Forest ham: The smoky, slightly sweet layers inside the meatloaf create authentic cordon bleu flavor.
- 6 slices Swiss cheese: Creamy and nutty, melted cheese is the soul of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Used to crisp up the breadcrumb topping for that irresistible golden finish.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Don’t forget to grease a loaf pan well—it’s crucial to prevent sticking and help the meatloaf keep its shape while cooking. This simple step sets you up for success and a stress-free release after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with diced onion, minced garlic, the beaten egg, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and half of the panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup). Mixing all these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with balanced flavor and perfect texture. It’s the heart of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf Roll
Place the meat mixture onto a large piece of parchment paper and flatten it into a neat rectangle. Now comes the fun part: layer the ham slices evenly over the chicken, then add the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the meat into a tight log, securing all those delicious layers. Transfer the rolled meatloaf seam-side down into the prepared loaf pan. This step creates the signature cordon bleu effect inside the meatloaf.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
Mix the remaining ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the meatloaf. This topping crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing a delightful textural contrast to the tender interior. Bake for 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s perfectly cooked and safe.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute to eliminate the raw flavor. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Finish by whisking in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until smooth and velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is the crowning glory that brings out the richness of the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making slices clean and moist. Slice thickly and serve drizzled with the luscious Dijon Parmesan sauce for a comforting meal that feels special every time.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation and flavor with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives over the sauce. Thinly sliced green onions also add a mild crunch and freshness that contrast nicely with the meatloaf’s richness. A few lemon zest shreds can brighten the dish if you want a subtle twist.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby carrots for classic comfort. For something lighter, try a crisp arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans with toasted almonds. These sides balance out the hearty main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve slices atop a bed of buttery polenta or with a side of garlic sautéed spinach for an elegant dinner. Alternatively, slice and serve the meatloaf on toasted baguette slices as a gourmet open-faced sandwich with extra sauce spooned on top. Any way you choose, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a super convenient lunch or quick dinner option where all the delicious flavors remain intact.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture, so cooking ahead is a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, which helps keep it moist and preserves the crispy breadcrumb topping. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop or microwave and serve warm for best results.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this meatloaf?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work similarly, offering a lean and mild-flavored base for the other ingredients in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe.
What if I don’t have Black Forest ham—what can I use instead?
Smoked ham or even cooked bacon can be used as alternatives. They’ll add a smoky, savory layer that mimics the essential flavor of Black Forest ham in the recipe.
Can I prepare this meatloaf without the sauce?
While the sauce really elevates the dish, you could serve the meatloaf with a simple mustard or mayonnaise-based dressing, or even a light gravy. But honestly, the sauce is a highlight you don’t want to skip!
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the sauce. This allows everyone to enjoy the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe safely.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the ground chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe is a brilliant way to bring the classic flavors of a beloved dish into a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its tender meat, smoky ham, melty cheese, and luscious sauce, it’s a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. I promise, once you give it a try, it will become a cherished staple in your recipe collection.
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines tender ground chicken with layers of Black Forest ham and Swiss cheese, creating a delicious twist on the classic cordon bleu. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust and served with a creamy Dijon Parmesan sauce, this hearty dish makes a perfect family dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, divided
- 6 slices Black Forest ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup of the panko breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: Lay a sheet of parchment paper on your work surface and spread the meat mixture into a rectangle. Layer the ham slices evenly over the meat, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the meat mixture into a log shape, making sure to encase the ham and cheese inside. Transfer the rolled meatloaf to the prepared loaf pan, placing it seam-side down.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping and Bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¾ cup of panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 75 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, accompanied by the creamy Dijon Parmesan sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Use parchment paper for easy rolling and to maintain the shape of the meatloaf.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps keep it moist.
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
