Hey y’all! If you’re a fan of comfort food with a gourmet twist, then you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza recipe. It’s the perfect blend of savory chicken, gooey cheese, and smoky ham, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to impress your taste buds. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It combines classic flavors in a new, exciting way.
- Easy to make, yet impressive enough for guests.
- Perfectly cheesy and savory with every bite.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Gluten-free option available.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 ounces sliced ham
- 4 ounces Swiss cheese slices
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
Layer with Ham and Cheese
On a sheet of parchment paper, spread the meatloaf mixture into a 9×13-inch rectangle. Lay the ham slices evenly over the mixture, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Gently roll up the meatloaf from one end, using the parchment to help create a tight roll.
Bake the Meatloaf
Transfer the rolled meatloaf to a greased baking dish. Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For a crispier crust, broil the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes. Check out this guide for broiling tips.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Variations
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
- Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra earthiness.
Required Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Suggested Pairings
Serve with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly ground black pepper for a bolder taste. Learn more about its benefits here.
- Chill the meatloaf in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking.
FAQ
- Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Oats or crushed crackers are great substitutes for breadcrumbs.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out? Ensure the meat mixture is tightly sealed around the edges before baking.