There's something irresistible about the creamy, cheesy flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, and this meatloaf version is the ultimate comfort food makeover. Imagine all the best parts of the classic dish—juicy chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese—wrapped into an easy-to-make loaf that's perfect for weeknights or special family dinners.
I first tried this recipe when I was looking for a fun twist on traditional meatloaf, and it instantly became a hit. It’s hearty, satisfying, and a breeze to make. Let’s dive in and discover why this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this creative take on a timeless classic. Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a meal that checks all the boxes for deliciousness, convenience, and appeal.
First off, this recipe transforms a beloved dish into an easy-to-make option that doesn’t require rolling or frying. The meatloaf method means less prep and cleanup while still delivering the same amazing flavors.
It’s also perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. The leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
If you're worried about picky eaters, don't be. The familiar flavors of chicken, ham, and cheese make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can customize the ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.
With just a few pantry staples and a little prep time, you’ll have a dinner that feels both indulgent and achievable, even on busy nights.
Ingredients Notes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf relies on simple, accessible ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays a key role in bringing the dish to life.
Ground chicken serves as the base for this meatloaf, offering a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. If you prefer, ground turkey is a great substitute.
Diced ham is the star of the show, adding a smoky, salty bite to the mix. You can use pre-packaged ham cubes or chop up leftovers from a previous meal.
Swiss cheese, shredded or thinly sliced, gives the dish its signature creamy, tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan of Swiss, mozzarella or provolone can work as well.
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together while keeping it moist. Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for their light, airy texture.
A blend of eggs and milk ensures the meatloaf stays tender and juicy without falling apart.
Optional: For an extra indulgent touch, consider topping your meatloaf with a drizzle of creamy Dijon mustard sauce.
Special equipment needed: A standard loaf pan is perfect for shaping and baking this meatloaf. You’ll also want a sharp knife for slicing clean portions after it’s baked.
How To Make This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Crafting this delightful meatloaf is straightforward and satisfying. Follow these steps for a foolproof meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing your loaf pan. This ensures the meatloaf won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Spread half of the chicken mixture into the loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Layer the diced ham and Swiss cheese on top, leaving a small border around the edges. This ensures the filling stays inside during cooking.
Top with the remaining chicken mixture, sealing the edges well. Smooth out the surface with a spatula for even cooking.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful.
Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal.
Storage Options
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal prep.
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the reheated portions even more delicious.
For longer storage, wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to three months. Be sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
To reheat, thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Warm slices in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker results.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. You can make small tweaks to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Swap out the Swiss cheese for a milder option like mozzarella if you’re cooking for kids or those who prefer less tangy flavors.
Add a handful of chopped spinach or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for an extra serving of vegetables.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers as a binding agent.
Love bold flavors? Mix some minced garlic or Italian herbs into the chicken mixture for added depth.
Feeling indulgent? Top the baked meatloaf with a creamy cheese sauce or sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.
Whether you're sticking to the classic flavors or trying a new twist, this recipe is forgiving and versatile—perfect for experimentation.
With its creamy, savory layers and effortless preparation, Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a dish you’ll return to time and time again. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
PrintChicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf recipe combines the flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in an easy-to-make meatloaf that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture into the bottom of the loaf pan. Layer with ham and Swiss cheese.
- Add the remaining chicken mixture on top, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey. Spread over the top of the meatloaf in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if preferred.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra texture.
- This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of meatloaf)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
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