Introduction

The classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, a beloved dish featuring breaded chicken stuffed with ham and cheese, takes on a comforting twist in this meatloaf adaptation. This version combines all the flavors of the original with the ease and heartiness of meatloaf, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

In this recipe, ground chicken is blended with herbs and spices and layered with savory ham and melty cheese, resulting in a dish that delivers on flavor and nostalgia. With its deliciously crispy exterior and tender center, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is sure to impress while being simple enough for everyday cooks.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground chicken
The base of this meatloaf, ground chicken keeps the dish lean while allowing it to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and fillings. Its mild taste makes it a perfect canvas for the cheese and ham.
1 cup breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs provide structure to the meatloaf, holding the mixture together without making it too dense. They also help absorb moisture, giving the meatloaf a pleasant texture.
2 large eggs
Eggs act as a binder, ensuring all the ingredients hold together as the meatloaf cooks. They also add a richness to the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor that enhances the chicken and complements the ham.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses the meatloaf with aromatic flavor, giving it a savory punch without overpowering the other ingredients.
1 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder adds an earthy sweetness and flavor complexity that pairs well with the meat and cheese layers.
½ teaspoon black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds heat and a touch of sharpness, balancing the richness of the cheese and ham.
Salt to taste
Salt enhances all the flavors in the meatloaf, ensuring that each bite is seasoned to perfection.
6 ounces thinly sliced ham
The savory ham adds a delectable saltiness and additional moisture, keeping the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
6 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
Swiss cheese brings a creamy texture and nutty flavor that melts beautifully throughout the meatloaf, mirroring the traditional Cordon Bleu experience.
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the meatloaf will cook evenly from the moment you place it inside. An adequately heated oven creates a nice crust while cooking the meatloaf through, preventing dryness.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

Mixing the ingredients in a large bowl allows for even distribution of seasonings throughout the chicken, creating a cohesive flavor in every bite. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Gently fold in the shredded Swiss cheese and sliced ham into the chicken mixture.

Folding in the cheese and ham helps distribute these flavorful fillings throughout the meatloaf without breaking down the mixture. This step is crucial to ensure that each slice has a good portion of the gooey cheese and savory ham.

Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.

Forming the meatloaf into an even shape allows for consistent cooking. Using a baking sheet promotes better airflow, preventing sogginess and allowing the exterior to crisp up.

Step 5: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cooking the meatloaf to the correct internal temperature ensures that it is safe to eat while retaining moisture. Monitoring the temperature helps avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Resting the meatloaf allows juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice stays moist. Cutting too soon can cause the juices to spill out, leaving you with a drier loaf.

Step 7: Slice and serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.

Serving the meatloaf warm will enhance the flavors and ensure the cheese is still gooey and delicious. Garnishing with parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish visually.

Secret to Moisture in Meatloaf

Keeping a meatloaf moist can be daunting, but with this Chicken Cordon Bleu version, the ingredients work together to create a juicy and flavorful dish. Using ground chicken, which is leaner than beef and pork, helps maintain a delicate texture. The addition of ham and cheese also contributes moisture, as they melt and infuse the meatloaf with richness, making every bite satisfying.

Layering Flavors for Maximum Impact

Incorporating layers of ham and Swiss cheese in the center of your meatloaf not only adds to the classic Cordon Bleu flavor but also creates a delightful surprise when you slice into it. The key is to fold these ingredients gently into the chicken mixture to ensure even distribution without compromising the structure. This pitch for flavor layering sets the meatloaf apart from traditional recipes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables or buttered noodles also complement the flavors beautifully, providing a well-rounded meal that appeals to families and guests alike.

FAQs

What if the meatloaf seems too dense?

If your meatloaf turns out dense, it's likely due to overmixing the ingredients. Next time, mix just until combined and avoid compressing the mixture too much when shaping.

Can I make a smaller meatloaf?

Yes, you can scale this recipe down. Just halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller pan, adjusting the cooking time accordingly since it will cook faster.

What if I want to add more vegetables?

Feel free to mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Just ensure they are well-drained to keep the meatloaf from becoming too wet.

How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure your binder, the eggs and breadcrumbs, are well distributed. Additionally, letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps it maintain its shape.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like cheddar or provolone for different flavor profiles.

Why is my meatloaf cooking unevenly?

If your meatloaf is cooking unevenly, it could be that the oven is not fully preheated or that the loaf is not shaped evenly. Check the shape and the oven's temperature for even cooking.

Conclusion

Incorporating the beloved flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into a hearty meatloaf creates a dish that is both comforting and delightful. Whether you're hosting family or just cooking for yourself, this recipe allows for creativity while maintaining classic flavours.

With its simple preparation and beautiful presentation, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf will become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire, ready to impress at any table.

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