Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Craving the flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but looking for a simpler preparation method? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf recipe combines the classic taste of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a hearty and easy-to-make meatloaf. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoons minced onion
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 6 slices Virginia chicken ham
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup skim or 1% milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures the oven is hot and ready to cook your meatloaf evenly.

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, mayonnaise, plain bread crumbs, minced onion, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Assemble the Meatloaf

In a loaf pan, spread half of the chicken mixture evenly on the bottom. Layer the chicken ham slices on top of the chicken mixture, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Finally, spread the remaining chicken mixture on top, ensuring it covers the ham and cheese layers completely.

Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top of the meatloaf. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the meatloaf is cooked through.

Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy

While the meatloaf is baking, start making the creamy Dijon gravy. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling and slightly golden. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly grated nutmeg, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf slices with the creamy Dijon gravy on top. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

• Side Dishes: Pair your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. These options complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf and gravy perfectly.
• Garnishing: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing the meatloaf with chopped parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and a hint of flavor.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the creamy Dijon gravy.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat individual slices in the microwave.

Gravy Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover gravy in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.

Pro Tips:

• Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes slicing easier and helps maintain the shape.
• Portioning: If planning to freeze, consider portioning the meatloaf into individual servings before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.
• Gravy Freshness: Make a fresh batch of the creamy Dijon gravy if you’ve stored the meatloaf for more than a few days to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with these serving and storage tips to make the most of your meal!

Variations:

1. Cheesy Spinach Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 1 cup of cooked, chopped spinach (squeezed dry) and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the chicken mixture.
• Layering: Along with the ham and Swiss cheese, add a layer of the spinach mixture in the center.
• Taste Twist: This variation adds a nutritious touch with spinach and an extra cheesy flavor.

2. Low-Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Bread Crumbs Substitution: Replace plain bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce carbs.
• Panko Breadcrumbs Substitution: Use crushed pork rinds for the topping instead of panko breadcrumbs.
• Diabetic-Friendly: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

3. Gluten-Free Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs: Use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular ones.
• Panko Breadcrumbs Substitution: Opt for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the topping.
• Safe for Celiacs: Ensures that the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. Herb and Garlic Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano) to the chicken mixture.
• Flavor Boost: Enhance the garlic flavor by doubling the garlic powder or adding 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
• Aromatic and Flavorful: Perfect for herb lovers, adding an aromatic depth to the meatloaf.

5. Mediterranean Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese to the chicken mixture.
• Cheese Variation: Replace Swiss cheese with provolone or mozzarella cheese.
• Mediterranean Flair: Brings a tangy and savory Mediterranean twist to the dish.

6. Spicy Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
• Cheese Variation: Use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss cheese.
• Heat Up: Adds a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

7. BBQ Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Flavor Twist: Mix 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce into the chicken mixture.
• Topping: Brush the top of the meatloaf with additional BBQ sauce before adding the panko breadcrumbs.
• Smoky Sweet: Adds a smoky, sweet flavor profile that complements the ham and cheese.

8. Italian Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture.
• Cheese Variation: Use provolone cheese instead of Swiss cheese.
• Sauce: Serve with marinara sauce instead of Dijon gravy.
• Italian Flavors: Perfect for fans of Italian cuisine, offering a different but delicious flavor profile.

9. Veggie-Packed Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Ingredients Addition: Add 1/2 cup each of finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini to the chicken mixture.
• Nutritional Boost: Incorporates more vegetables, adding nutrition and flavor.
• Healthy Twist: Great for getting extra veggies into your diet.

10. Ham and Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

• Layering: Instead of layering the ham and cheese in the middle, roll the chicken mixture out on a piece of parchment paper, layer the ham and cheese, then roll it up jelly-roll style before placing it in the loaf pan.
• Presentation: Creates a beautiful swirl of ham and cheese throughout each slice.
• Fun and Fancy: Adds a gourmet touch to your meatloaf presentation.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic dish, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient and satisfying form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.