Description: A delightful twist on a classic, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines the comfort of meatloaf with the elegance of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Layers of Swiss cheese and savory turkey ham are nestled within a juicy, flavorful ground chicken base, creating a culinary experience that is both familiar and exciting. This recipe offers a healthier and more approachable way to enjoy the beloved flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget the fussy breading and frying; this baked meatloaf is simple to prepare and delivers a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra texture)
- 2 teaspoons minced onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder for convenience)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices turkey ham (or regular ham if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and added flavor)
For the Gravy:
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or whole-grain mustard for a rustic touch)
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet, parchment paper (or aluminum foil), and a small saucepan. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready to bake the meatloaf as soon as it’s assembled.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will prevent the meatloaf from sticking and make cleanup much easier. If using aluminum foil, lightly grease it with cooking spray to further prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, egg, bread crumbs, minced onion (or onion powder), garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. The mixture should be evenly distributed but not overworked.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf Place a large piece of parchment paper (approximately 16 inches long) on your counter. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Press the meatloaf mixture onto the parchment paper into a rectangle approximately 12 inches long and 10 inches wide. Aim for an even thickness to ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Step 4: Layer the Cheese and Ham Carefully lay the Swiss cheese slices on top of the meatloaf mixture, overlapping them slightly to cover the entire surface. Then, place the turkey ham slices on top of the cheese, also overlapping them to ensure full coverage. The cheese and ham should create a uniform layer that extends to the edges of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Roll the Meatloaf Using the parchment paper as a guide, carefully roll the meatloaf up tightly, starting from one of the longer sides. As you roll, gently tuck in any loose bits of meatloaf mixture to create a neat and even roll. Once the meatloaf is rolled up, pinch the ends to seal them tightly, preventing the cheese from leaking out during baking. Place the meatloaf seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until it is cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The top of the meatloaf should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 7: Prepare the Gravy (While the Meatloaf Bakes) While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a small saucepan, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. If desired, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream for extra richness. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Rest and Slice Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices and serve immediately with the prepared gravy.
Why you will love this recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a winner for several reasons:
- It’s a comforting classic with a twist: It takes the familiar flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu and presents them in an easy-to-make meatloaf form.
- It’s healthier: Using ground chicken instead of breaded chicken cutlets and baking instead of frying makes this a lighter and healthier option.
- It’s packed with flavor: The combination of juicy ground chicken, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
- It’s easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this delicious and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, and leftovers make great sandwiches!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or carrots.
- Mashed potatoes or rice make a great accompaniment to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
- For a complete meal, serve with a crusty bread or dinner rolls.
- Leftover meatloaf makes excellent sandwiches – try it with Dijon mustard and lettuce on a baguette.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground chicken and ground turkey.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or provolone, for a unique twist.
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or horseradish sauce.
- To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, brush it with melted butter or olive oil before baking.
- For a crispy top, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of baking.
- Make ahead: Prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Freezing: Cooked meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 50-55 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 600-800mg (depending on the sodium content of the ham and broth)
Conclusion
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful and approachable dish that brings the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu to your table in a comforting meatloaf form. With its juicy ground chicken base, savory ham and cheese filling, and flavorful Dijon gravy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a winning choice. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a culinary experience that is both familiar and exciting.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
- Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe. Ground turkey will provide a similar flavor and texture, although it may be slightly drier than ground chicken. To compensate, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil or a beaten egg to the meatloaf mixture to keep it moist.
- Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the meatloaf as directed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature slightly.
- What can I serve with this meatloaf besides vegetables?
- While vegetables are a great side dish for this meatloaf, there are many other options to choose from. Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, or couscous are all excellent choices. You could also serve it with a side of mac and cheese or a simple pasta salad. For a lighter option, consider a fresh fruit salad or a cucumber and tomato salad.
- Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
- Yes, leftover meatloaf freezes well. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can also slice the meatloaf before freezing it for easier portioning. Frozen meatloaf can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or in the microwave using the defrost setting.
- What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?
- If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, you can substitute it with another type of cheese that melts well, such as Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella. Each of these cheeses will add a slightly different flavor profile to the meatloaf, but they will all provide a delicious and cheesy filling. You can also use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
