If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a meal that combines comfort and elegance, look no further than this Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf. This recipe takes the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu—juicy chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese—and transforms them into a deliciously hearty meatloaf. Perfect for dinner parties or a special weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs of ground chicken
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 6-8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 6-8 slices of Swiss cheese (thinly sliced)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Meatloaf:
- Divide the meatloaf mixture in half. Press the first half into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating an even layer.
- Layer the ham slices evenly over the meatloaf mixture, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese slices.
- Press the remaining meatloaf mixture over the top, sealing the edges to encase the ham and cheese filling.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Brush the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a moist and tender meatloaf.
- Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality ham and Swiss cheese will elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Seal the Edges: When assembling the meatloaf, make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Adjust the Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier glaze, adjust the honey and vinegar ratios to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the richness of the meatloaf.
- Steamed Asparagus: A simple and elegant vegetable that adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: The crispiness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the savory meatloaf.
Conclusion
This Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering the best of both worlds—comfort food with a gourmet touch. The combination of ground chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a tangy glaze creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this meatloaf is sure to impress and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.