Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines the classic flavors of ham, Swiss cheese, and seasoned ground chicken baked to perfection in a loaf form. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting main course that’s perfect for family dinners, delivering a juicy, cheesy, and savory meal inspired by the traditional French chicken cordon bleu.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Filling
- 6 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat, to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Assemble Meatloaf Base: Press half of the chicken mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating an even layer that forms the base for the filling.
- Add Ham and Cheese Filling: Layer the six slices of deli ham evenly over the chicken base, then cover the ham with the six slices of Swiss cheese, ensuring an even distribution for every bite.
- Top with Remaining Meat Mixture: Carefully spread the remaining chicken mixture on top, pressing lightly to seal the edges and encase the ham and cheese completely within the loaf.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, melted unsalted butter, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf to create a flavorful, crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for moist, flavorful servings.
Notes
- This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh light salad.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a simple Dijon cream sauce or mustard-based gravy before serving.
- Leftover meatloaf slices make excellent sandwiches for the next day, either cold or warmed up.
- Ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the proper internal temperature to guarantee safety and juiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
