Here’s a detailed recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf – a delicious twist on the classic dish, combining the flavors of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, all in a comforting meatloaf format.
🧾 Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
📌 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken (or a mix of ground chicken and turkey)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko)
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
For the Filling:
- 6–8 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 6–8 slices of Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard for brushing
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together:
- Ground chicken
- Eggs
- Milk
- Breadcrumbs
- Onion
- Garlic
- Dijon mustard
- Paprika
- Salt, pepper, and parsley
Mix just until combined – don’t overmix, or the meatloaf may be tough.
3. Assemble the Meatloaf
- On a sheet of wax/parchment paper or plastic wrap, flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle (approx. 10×12 inches).
- Lay the slices of ham evenly over the surface.
- Top the ham with Swiss cheese slices.
- (Optional) Brush with a thin layer of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
4. Roll It Up
- Using the parchment paper to help, roll the meatloaf tightly like a jelly roll, sealing the edges and ends.
- Carefully transfer to a loaf pan or onto the prepared baking sheet seam-side down.
5. Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the panko, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.
- A drizzle of Dijon cream sauce or simple chicken gravy is also a nice touch.
🔁 Variations
- Use mozzarella or provolone instead of Swiss if preferred.
- Add a layer of spinach or sautéed mushrooms inside.
- Use ground turkey for a slightly leaner version.