If you’re craving serious comfort food with a twist, Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf takes everything you love about the classic dish and transforms it into a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing main course. Imagine layers of savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese rolled inside tender, flavorful ground chicken, all finished with a tangy Dijon topping. This meatloaf isn’t just a dinner; it’s an experience your family will request again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is in its familiar, easy-to-find ingredients—each one playing a starring role in flavor, texture, or that signature swirl inside. Here’s what you’ll need, and why every item matters:
- Ground chicken: The gentle flavor soaks up all the seasonings and stays wonderfully moist inside the loaf.
- Breadcrumbs: They give the meatloaf its perfect, tender texture and help bind everything together.
- Milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatloaf juicy throughout.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, making sure your meatloaf slices hold together beautifully.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a balanced, subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion powder: Adds depth and savory goodness to the chicken blend.
- Salt: Brightens up all the flavors—don’t skimp!
- Black pepper: A pinch of mild heat to round things out.
- Dijon mustard: Used inside and on top, it adds tang and signature French flair to the dish.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Lends freshness and a touch of color to your meatloaf.
- Deli ham slices: Classic smoky, savory layers that make the cordon bleu magic happen.
- Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistibly cheesy, creamy spiral.
- Mayonnaise (for topping): Creates a creamy, golden crown when baked.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This little bit of prep makes cleanup a breeze and gives your meatloaf the perfect surface for even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and parsley (if you’re using it). Stir until everything is just mixed. The key here is a gentle hand—overmixing can make your meatloaf dense instead of tender.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Meatloaf
Lay out a large piece of parchment or plastic wrap on the counter, and pat the meat mixture into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Imagine you’re making a canvas for the good stuff: next, layer those thin ham slices evenly, then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top. This is where the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf really starts to come to life!
Step 4: Roll It Up
With the short side facing you, use the parchment to help you carefully roll the filled meat up jelly-roll style (like making cinnamon rolls, but savory!). Seal the ends gently so all that cheesy ham stays tucked inside, then place your meatloaf seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Add the Signature Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise. Slather this creamy, tangy mixture across the top of your meatloaf, then sprinkle the rest of the shredded Swiss cheese over everything. This not only amps up the flavor, it turns into an irresistible golden topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Bake your masterpiece for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow all those amazing layers to settle. This ensures perfect slices every time!
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Garnishes
Brighten up your platter with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika for color. A squeeze of lemon over each slice adds unexpected freshness, and a few extra thin ham ribbons on top can really highlight those signature flavors.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes or buttery rice are always a hit with Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf. For something lighter, try a crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. Even some steamed broccoli pairs wonderfully with those cheesy, savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your meatloaf slices into sliders by tucking them into soft rolls with a smear of mustard. Or, fan out the slices on a large platter and drizzle with a little honey mustard glaze for an elegant, party-ready presentation. Remember, that striking spiral of ham and cheese is the star!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap cooled slices tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf stays fresh and delicious for up to four days, making lunches and quick dinners a breeze.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the whole cooked meatloaf or just individual slices. Cool completely, double-wrap in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For juicy results, reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (163°C) covered with foil until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but a quick oven refresh keeps the edges crispy and the cheese melty.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the meatloaf up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the topping and pop it in the oven.
What type Main Course
A smoky, thinly sliced deli ham adds the perfect flavor and texture, but feel free to experiment with Black Forest or honey ham for something a little different.
How do I ensure the meatloaf holds together when sliced?
Letting the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after baking allows the juices and cheese to settle, making for pretty, tidy slices every time.
Can I use other cheeses besides Swiss?
Definitely! Gruyère is a classic swap, or even a mild provolone will melt beautifully and add another twist on the traditional flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you need to make this recipe gluten-friendly, simply use your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t be missing a thing!
Final Thoughts
Once you try Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf, you’ll see just how easy and exciting it is to bring this retro classic to your own kitchen table. With layers of flavor, a gorgeous spiral effect, and serious crowd appeal, it’s comfort food that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a go—and let this twist on a favorite become a new family tradition!
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the flavors of a classic Chicken Cordon Bleu in the form of a juicy, flavorful meatloaf. This dish combines tender ground chicken with savory ham and gooey Swiss cheese, wrapped in a delectable Dijon mustard glaze.
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- 6 slices deli ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
For the topping:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet. Combine chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, spices, mustard, and parsley.
- Assemble: Flatten meat mixture, layer with ham and cheese, roll into a log, and place on baking sheet.
- Add Topping: Mix Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, spread over meatloaf, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes until fully cooked. Rest before slicing.
Notes
- Consider using smoked ham or different cheese variations for a unique twist.
- Baking the meatloaf in a loaf pan is an alternative to rolling it for a different presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
