Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Savory Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe for Family Dinners

Succulent chicken meets classic comfort in this irresistible cordon bleu meatloaf that redefines weekend dinner magic.

Layers of savory ground chicken blend seamlessly with rich ham and melted Swiss cheese.

The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, juicy interior that bursts with flavor in every single bite.

Delicate herbs and perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs create a golden-brown crust that seals in all the delicious goodness.

Each slice promises a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This recipe transforms an everyday meal into a gourmet experience that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Prepare to fall in love with a new family favorite that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Calories: 360 kcal

Servings: 7

Ingredients Breakdown For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

For Meat Base:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean protein that provides a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, selecting fresh and high-quality meat ensures better flavor and texture.
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps bind ingredients and creates a tender texture, using fresh or panko breadcrumbs adds great moisture and structure.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory depth and richness, selecting aged Parmesan delivers more intense flavor.
  • Milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist and helps blend ingredients smoothly, whole milk works best for richness.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatloaf together, fresh eggs provide better cohesion.
For Filling and Layering:
  • Ham Slices: Traditional cordon bleu element that brings salty and smoky flavor, choosing high-quality deli ham enhances overall taste.
  • Swiss Cheese: Provides creamy melting quality and classic cordon bleu character, selecting freshly grated cheese melts more evenly.
For Topping and Sauce:
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy golden exterior, selecting Japanese-style panko ensures maximum crunchiness.
  • Butter: Helps create a golden, rich topping and provides base for sauce, using unsalted butter gives better control of saltiness.
  • Dried Parsley: Adds subtle herbaceous note to topping, fresh or dried work well.
  • Chicken Broth: Builds depth in sauce, selecting low-sodium allows better seasoning control.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, smooth sauce texture, full-fat cream provides best consistency.
  • Dijon Mustard: Delivers tangy, sharp flavor profile, selecting smooth Dijon.

Tools And Supplies For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ground chicken and other meatloaf ingredients.
  • Loaf pan: Crucial for shaping and baking the meatloaf perfectly.
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
  • Small bowl: Needed for preparing the breadcrumb topping.
  • Saucepan: Used for creating the creamy Dijon sauce.
  • Whisk: Helps blend sauce ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Spatula: Useful for mixing and scraping ingredients.
  • Meat thermometer: Checks internal temperature for safe cooking.
  • Sharp knife: Required for slicing the meatloaf.

How To Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

  • Craft the Meatloaf Foundation

Blend ground chicken with breadcrumbs, creating a smooth mixture that captures the essence of classic comfort food. Infuse the meat with Parmesan, egg, and delicate seasonings to ensure rich flavor and tender texture.

  • Layer the Flavor Surprise

Spread a foundation of chicken mixture in your loaf pan, then strategically arrange ham slices and sprinkle Swiss cheese for a delightful hidden core. Carefully cover with remaining chicken mixture, sealing the delicious interior.

  • Create Crispy Topping

Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, transforming the meatloaf’s surface into a golden, crunchy landscape that promises textural excitement.

  • Bake to Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into a preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 50-60 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe 75C, guaranteeing juicy, fully cooked delight.

  • Whip Up Creamy Dijon Drizzle

In a saucepan, craft a velvety sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour. Gradually introduce chicken broth and cream, then enhance with Dijon mustard. Simmer until the sauce reaches a luxurious, silky consistency.

  • Serve and Celebrate

Slice the meatloaf and cascade the creamy Dijon sauce over top. Accompany with roasted vegetables or smooth mashed potatoes for a meal that transforms an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.

Helpful Ideas And Tweaks For Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

  • Meat Moisture Magic: Add a splash of milk or grated onion to your ground chicken to keep the meatloaf incredibly juicy and prevent dryness during baking.
  • Cheese Lover's Swap: Replace Swiss cheese with provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles and exciting taste variations.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace regular flour with almond flour or cornstarch in the sauce to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Healthier Protein Option: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground chicken breast for a lower-fat version of this classic comfort dish.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or herbs like thyme to the meat mixture for extra depth and personalized flavor complexity.

How To Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe With Style

  • Creamy Comfort Plate: Spread a bed of smooth mashed potatoes as a luxurious base, then place thick slices of the meatloaf on top, drizzling the Dijon sauce generously.
  • Veggie Companion Delight: Roast colorful seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and zucchini as a vibrant side that complements the rich meatloaf flavors.
  • Fresh Salad Contrast: Create a crisp green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty meatloaf and cut through its richness.
  • Wine Pairing Elegance: Serve with a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir to enhance the dish's complex flavors and creamy sauce.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe Prep And Storage Tips

  • Quick Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining optimal flavor and texture.
  • Freezing Friendly Option: Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months for future quick meals. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Smart Reheating Technique: Warm slices in oven at 160C (325F) for 15-20 minutes to prevent drying. Add a splash of chicken broth or extra sauce to maintain moisture and restore original juiciness.
  • Sauce Storage Solution: Keep creamy Dijon sauce separately in sealed container. Refrigerate up to 4 days. Gently reheat in small saucepan, stirring constantly to prevent separation and maintain smooth consistency.
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Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Crispy Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Savory chicken cordon bleu meatloaf combines classic comfort with elegant French-inspired flavors. Hearty layers of ground chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese create a satisfying main dish perfect for family dinners. Serve alongside roasted vegetables and you’ll enjoy a delightful meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large egg
  • 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
  • 6 slices deli ham
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mixture Preparation: Gently combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, Dijon mustard, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl, blending until ingredients are just incorporated to preserve a tender consistency.
  2. Layer Formation: Spread half the chicken mixture into a loaf pan, creating a foundational layer. Arrange ham slices across the surface, then distribute Swiss cheese to establish a flavorful, molten interior.
  3. Sealing and Topping: Delicately cover the ham and cheese with remaining chicken mixture, ensuring complete encapsulation. Crown the meatloaf with a panko and butter mixture, pressing gently to create an even, golden crust.
  4. Baking Process: Slide the prepared meatloaf into a preheated oven at 180C. Roast for approximately 55 minutes, verifying the internal temperature reaches 75C for optimal food safety.
  5. Sauce Creation: Simultaneously craft a luxurious Dijon sauce by developing a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisking in chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and select seasonings until smooth and velvety.
  6. Resting and Serving: Allow the meatloaf to rest briefly after removing from the oven, enabling juice redistribution. Slice into generous portions and cascade with the rich Dijon sauce, presenting alongside roasted vegetables or creamy potato puree.

Notes

  • Prevent Dry Meat: Mix ground chicken gently to avoid compacting, which creates dense, tough texture. Use light hand when combining ingredients.
  • Cheese Placement Strategy: Position ham and Swiss cheese centrally to prevent melting outside meatloaf during baking, ensuring perfect cheesy core.
  • Temperature Control: Use instant-read thermometer to confirm 75C internal temperature, guaranteeing food safety without overcooking chicken.
  • Sauce Balance: Whisk Dijon sauce slowly to prevent lumps, controlling heat to maintain smooth, creamy consistency without separation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

Nutritional Analysis​, Dietary Accommodations​, Food Writing and Blogging​,

Education

University of Texas at Austin

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • Focus: Emphasis on dietary planning, food science, and the relationship between nutrition and health.​

Institute of Culinary Education, New York, NY

  • Program: Plant-Based Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized training in vegetarian and vegan cooking techniques, emphasizing whole foods and sustainability.​

Olivia Bennett is Cooking Crusade’s go-to expert for nutritious, feel-good food. Based in Austin, she blends her degree in Nutrition from the University of Texas with plant-based culinary training from the Institute of Culinary Education.

Olivia’s recipes are all about balance: vibrant, wholesome, and easy-to-love dishes that work for all kinds of eaters. Her mission is simple: to make healthy eating approachable and genuinely tasty, with tips that support your lifestyle, not complicate it.

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