Hey there, friend! I’ve got a super fun twist on a classic comfort food for you today: Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf! This recipe makes my heart sing because it combines the delicious flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese, all wrapped up in a cozy meatloaf. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or even meal prep for the week. Plus, who doesn’t love a good meatloaf?
The best part is how easy it is to whip up. Imagine slicing into this beauty, and you see melted cheese bubbling between the layers. The savory taste of ham pairs so well with the juicy chicken, creating a flavor explosion that everyone at the table will adore. It’s kid-friendly, loved by my husband, and honestly, it might just become a new family favorite! If you love this, you might also enjoy my Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe as a delightful side. Let’s get cooking! 🍽️❤️
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
- Deliciously combines classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu in a meatloaf form
- Moist and tender with a delightful layer of ham and Swiss cheese
- Easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home
- A fun twist on traditional meatloaf that impresses at dinner parties
- Customize with your favorite spices or additional ingredients
- Serves beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad
This recipe gives you all the comforting indulgence of chicken cordon bleu while being incredibly approachable. It’s a great way to showcase your culinary skills with minimal effort!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic favorite! It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and perfect for family dinners—you’ll love how the flavors mingle together. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness wrapped in savory ham?
What You’ll Need:
- Ground chicken – 1 lb. I find that ground chicken has a lovely texture for meatloaf, and it’s a bit lighter than beef.
- Deli ham – 1/2 lb, sliced. Opt for a quality honey or smoked ham for a flavor boost!
- Swiss cheese – 1/2 lb, sliced. I love using a mild Swiss that melts beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup. Use plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs based on your preference.
- Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated. The real stuff elevates the dish; I prefer Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Onion – 1/4 cup, finely chopped. Yellow onion works nicely for sweetness!
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Large eggs – 2. They bind everything together nicely.
- Fresh parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped. Fresh herbs add brightness; feel free to swap in your favorite herb!
- Salt and pepper – 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Always adjust to your taste!
- Dijon mustard – 1 tsp. Adds a nice tang!
- Dried thyme – 1 tsp (optional). If you like its earthy flavor, toss it in!
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp, for drizzling. I love California Olive Ranch for its robust flavor.
The Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes clean-up a breeze!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and optional dried thyme. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
- On a clean surface, shape the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just aim for even thickness!
- Layer the sliced ham evenly over the meat, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Just imagine that melty goodness!
- Carefully roll the meatloaf starting from one end, making sure to keep the ham and cheese tightly enclosed. Pinch the ends to seal; this keeps all that delicious filling inside!
- Place the rolled meatloaf seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor and moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
- Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain those tasty juices!
- Serve warm, garnished with a bit more parsley if you like. Pair it up with some mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Happy cooking! I can’t wait for you to take a slice of this tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It will provide a similar texture, though the flavor might differ slightly. Just ensure it’s cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Swiss Cheese?
If Swiss cheese isn’t available, you can use provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar as a delicious alternative. Each cheese will add a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Can I Make This Meatloaf in Advance?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy your meal again!
