Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, combining the savory flavors of ground chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese into a comforting, hearty meatloaf. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something special. Topped with a creamy Dijon gravy, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
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- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup diced ham
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- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
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- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
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- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
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- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
3.In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4.Pour the egg mixture into the chicken mixture and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatloaf
5.Transfer half of the meatloaf mixture into a greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
6.Create a layer of ham slices on top of the meat mixture, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese slices.
7.Cover with the remaining meatloaf mixture, pressing down gently to form a loaf shape.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf
8.Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
9.Remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle the top with additional panko breadcrumbs, and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Make the Creamy Dijon Gravy
10.While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
11.Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden brown.
12.Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
13.Stir in the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the gravy warm over low heat until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
14.Once the meatloaf is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
15.Serve the slices topped with the creamy Dijon gravy for a meal that is rich, savory, and absolutely delicious.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
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- Ground Chicken: Use fresh ground chicken for the best flavor and texture.
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- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of Swiss cheese or even substitute with Gruyère for a richer flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crunch to the top of the meatloaf. You can also mix them with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling on top for extra crispiness.
- Gravy: The creamy Dijon gravy is what really sets this dish apart. Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
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- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the rich gravy.
- Steamed Vegetables: Keep it simple with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and layer it in the pan up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also bake the meatloaf and reheat it before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
A: Absolutely. Once the meatloaf is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: What can I use instead of ground chicken?
A: Ground turkey is a great alternative and will give a similar flavor and texture. Ground pork or a mixture of meats can also be used for a different twist.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delicious and creative way to enjoy the flavors of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu in a new and exciting form. With its savory layers of ham and Swiss cheese, complemented by a creamy Dijon gravy, this meatloaf is sure to impress and satisfy. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you want to treat yourself to a comforting, delicious meal.
Try this recipe today and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Happy cooking!
