Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf takes the classic flavors of the beloved French dish and transforms them into a hearty, comforting meatloaf. Juicy ground chicken is combined with smoky ham, gooey Swiss cheese, and savory seasonings, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect family-friendly dinner that’s both impressive and easy to prepare.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground chickenham (diced or thinly sliced)Swiss cheese (sliced or shredded)eggbreadcrumbsDijon mustardonion (finely chopped)garlic (minced)saltblack pepperItalian seasoningbutter (optional, for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated, but do not overmix.

Divide the meat mixture in half. Press half of it into the bottom of the loaf pan, creating a slight well in the center.

Layer the ham and Swiss cheese evenly over the meat base.

Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing down to seal the filling inside.

Smooth the top and, if desired, brush with melted butter for a golden finish.

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 45-55 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 70-80 minutes

Variations

Swap Swiss for mozzarella or provolone for a milder cheese flavor.

Use turkey instead of chicken for a slightly leaner option.

Add chopped spinach or parsley for a touch of green and extra nutrition.

Top with a creamy mustard or cheese sauce after baking for extra richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.You can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a similar texture and taste.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

Mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar are great substitutes.

How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough binding ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs, and allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard?

Dijon adds flavor, but you can substitute with yellow mustard or omit for a milder version.

Can I bake this without a loaf pan?

Yes, shape it into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake as directed.

Can I add a glaze?

A honey mustard or creamy cheese glaze complements the flavors well.

What kind of ham should I use?

Thinly sliced deli ham or diced cooked ham both work well.

Should I cover the meatloaf while baking?

It’s not necessary, but you can cover it with foil for the first 30 minutes to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the top.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer—when the center reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a timeless classic, offering the elegance of cordon bleu in a cozy, family-friendly format. With its melty cheese center, savory ham layers, and juicy chicken base, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite or a dinner party showstopper.