Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

The Juiciest Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe Ever Made

Comfort food reaches new heights with this delectable chicken cordon bleu meatloaf that blends classic flavors in one hearty dish.

Tender ground chicken mingles with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese, creating a mouthwatering fusion of traditional meatloaf and beloved French-inspired cuisine.

Each slice promises a delightful surprise with its rich, creamy center and golden-brown exterior.

The recipe combines simple ingredients to deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Home cooks will adore how effortlessly this meal comes together, making weeknight dinners both exciting and delicious.

Serve this crowd-pleasing meatloaf alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and memorable meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: What Makes It Stand Out

  • Transform traditional meatloaf into a gourmet chicken version with rich ham and cheese layers, elevating a humble dish to restaurant-quality excitement.
  • Combine ingredients swiftly, layer with minimal fuss, and bake for a satisfying dinner that requires little hands-on cooking time and delivers maximum flavor.
  • Blend familiar chicken and classic meatloaf elements to create a crowd-pleasing recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.
  • Enhance the dish with a luxurious homemade gravy featuring Dijon mustard and Parmesan, turning a simple meatloaf into a sophisticated culinary experience that feels indulgent.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Full Ingredient List

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Lean ground meat that forms the primary structure of the meatloaf.
  • Ham: Provides a classic cordon bleu flavor and additional protein.
  • Egg: Helps bind the meat mixture together and adds moisture.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Swiss Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty element that is signature to cordon bleu style.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the gravy with a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Cream: Creates a smooth and luxurious base for the gravy.
  • Milk: Helps thin and balance the gravy consistency.
Seasoning and Binding:
  • Breadcrumbs, Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide texture and help hold the meatloaf together.
  • Onion, Garlic Powder: Add depth and aromatic flavor to the meat mixture.
  • Parsley: Brings a fresh herbal note to the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall taste.
Gravy Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the gravy.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the gravy.
  • Worcestershire Sauce, Dijon Mustard: Add tangy and complex flavor to the gravy.
  • Nutmeg: Provides a warm, subtle spice to the gravy.

Tools for Crafting Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Loaf Pan: Essential for shaping and baking the meatloaf with the perfect rectangular form.
  • Mixing Bowl: Large bowl for combining chicken mixture ingredients smoothly and evenly.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending gravy ingredients and creating a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for preparing ingredients and slicing meatloaf.
  • Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for chopping ingredients and slicing the final meatloaf.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for mixing ingredients without overworking the meat.
  • Saucepan: Used for preparing the creamy gravy on the stovetop.

Baking Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: The Easy Way

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F, getting ready for some delicious cooking magic.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

In a mixing bowl, combine these tasty ingredients:
  • Ground chicken
  • Egg
  • Mayonnaise
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Diced onion
  • Garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend everything until well mixed and the ingredients are friends with each other.

Step 3: Build Your Flavor Layers

Grab your loaf pan and start constructing delicious layers:
  • Spread half the chicken mixture as the first foundation
  • Add a layer of sliced chicken ham
  • Sprinkle cheese generously
  • Top with remaining chicken mixture

Smooth out the top like you’re creating an edible masterpiece.

Step 4: Bake And Crisp

Slide the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

Then sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and gorgeous.

Step 5: Craft Luxurious Gravy

In a saucepan, create a velvety sauce:
  • Melt butter
  • Whisk in flour
  • Pour cream and milk
  • Add Worcestershire sauce
  • Mix in Dijon mustard
Simmer the mixture, then enrich with:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir until smooth and irresistible.

Step 6: Rest And Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes, slice into beautiful portions, and drench with your homemade gravy.

Enjoy your culinary creation!

Meatloaf Tips for Cheesy, Moist Results

  • Press cheese between ham slices to prevent leakage during baking, ensuring a delicious melted center without messy spillover.
  • Select ground chicken with moderate fat content for a juicy, tender meatloaf that won't dry out during cooking.
  • Mix breadcrumbs gradually to maintain ideal meat mixture consistency, preventing a dense or crumbly texture.
  • Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the gravy for a more complex, rich taste that complements the meatloaf.
  • Allow meatloaf to rest 10 minutes after baking, helping it set and making slicing cleaner and more precise.

New Twists on Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Vegetarian Swiss Delight: Replace chicken with plant-based ground meat or lentils, use vegetarian ham alternative, and swap cheese for dairy-free version for a meatless protein-packed meal.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring celiac-friendly preparation without compromising flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Protein Powerhouse: Use ground turkey instead of chicken, eliminate breadcrumbs, add extra herbs, and serve with cauliflower mash for reduced carbohydrate intake.
  • Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate feta cheese, add sun-dried tomatoes, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and sprinkle oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired transformation.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

  • Creamy Comfort Plate: Pair the meatloaf with smooth mashed potatoes that soak up the rich gravy perfectly.
  • Veggie Rainbow Side: Add roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, carrots, and Brussels sprouts for a colorful and nutritious complement.
  • Crisp Green Freshness: Serve alongside a light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich and creamy meatloaf flavors.
  • Wine Pairing Delight: Choose a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir to enhance the meal's savory profile.

Storing Cordon Bleu Meatloaf for the Next Day

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
  • Place cooled meatloaf slices in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Cover meatloaf with foil to retain moisture. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Add extra gravy to prevent drying.

FAQs

  • Is chicken cordon bleu meatloaf difficult to make?

Not at all! It’s a simple recipe that combines classic meatloaf with the delicious flavors of chicken cordon bleu. Just mix ingredients, layer with ham and cheese, and bake.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests traditional cheese, you can experiment with Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

  • Do I need special cooking skills to prepare this?

No special skills required. This recipe is beginner-friendly and uses basic mixing and layering techniques that anyone can master.

  • How can I ensure my meatloaf stays moist?

The combination of egg, mayonnaise, and careful mixing helps keep the chicken meatloaf tender and juicy. Don’t overmix the meat mixture and follow the baking instructions precisely.

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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


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4.6 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Savory chicken cordon bleu meatloaf combines classic comfort with elegant French-inspired flavors. Ham and Swiss cheese create a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf, promising a satisfying meal for hungry diners.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 6 slices Virginia chicken ham
  • 6 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 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 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 cup skim or 1% milk
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly blend ground chicken with beaten egg, creamy mayonnaise, aromatic herbs, and seasoned breadcrumbs until uniformly mixed.
  2. Create a strategic layering technique in a prepared loaf pan, alternating chicken mixture with delicate slices of ham and rich cheese for maximum flavor distribution.
  3. Carefully construct the meatloaf with precise layers, ensuring even coverage and balanced ingredient placement throughout the pan.
  4. Slide the assembled meatloaf into a preheated 400°F oven, allowing initial cooking for approximately 25 minutes to develop foundational flavors and structural integrity.
  5. Sprinkle crisp panko breadcrumbs across the surface, returning to the oven for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.
  6. Craft a luxurious accompanying gravy by gently melting butter and whisking in flour to create a smooth roux foundation.
  7. Gradually incorporate cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard into the roux, stirring consistently to prevent lumping and develop deep, complex flavors.
  8. Enhance the gravy with freshly grated Parmesan, a whisper of nutmeg, and carefully balanced seasoning.
  9. Remove meatloaf from oven and allow a brief resting period to stabilize internal structure and redistribute moisture.
  10. Slice the meatloaf with a sharp knife, drizzle with prepared gravy, and serve immediately while flavors remain vibrant and textures optimal.

Notes

  • Ensure uniform mixing of chicken mixture to prevent dry or uneven texture, which guarantees consistent flavor in every slice.
  • Use high-quality ham and Swiss cheese for enhanced taste and creamy melting properties, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Consider gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the recipe’s delicious profile.
  • Allow meatloaf to rest completely before slicing to help proteins redistribute, resulting in juicier and more tender meat that holds its shape better.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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