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If you’re looking for a fun twist on two classic favorites, you absolutely must try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe. Combining the comforting heartiness of meatloaf with the indulgent flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, this dish creates a sensational harmony of taste and texture. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with something familiar yet excitingly new. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe, it might just become your go-to weeknight meal.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe relies on simple, approachable ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role — from the creamy melt of Swiss cheese to the crispy breadcrumb topping, every bite is bursting with delicious layers.

2 lbs ground chicken: The lean protein base for a lighter meatloaf with great moisture.
½ small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a sweet, mellow crunch to balance the richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatloaf with a deep savory aroma.
1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, keeping everything perfectly together.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy kick that complements the creamy cheese.
½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and boosts umami.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings freshness and a pop of color.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicious flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of subtle heat.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs, divided: Half mixed inside for texture, half on top for a golden crust.
6 slices Black Forest ham: Layered inside to mirror the classic cordon bleu taste.
6 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of goodness.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Mixed with breadcrumbs to create a crisp, buttery topping.
For the Sauce: Butter, flour, milk, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, plus salt and pepper—these enrich and tie the whole dish together perfectly.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by warming up your oven to 350°F (177°C) and greasing your loaf pan. This step primes your pan so the meatloaf won’t stick and bakes evenly, setting you up for success.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground chicken, finely diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup of the panko breadcrumbs. Mixing all these ingredients creates the tender, flavorful base with just the right texture to hold itself without being dense.

Step 3: Assemble with Ham and Swiss Cheese

Lay out a large piece of parchment paper, then spread the meat mixture into a flattened rectangle. Layer six slices of Black Forest ham evenly across the top, followed by six slices of Swiss cheese. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the meat into a tight log, encasing the ham and cheese inside like a delicious surprise. Place the meatloaf seam-side down in your prepared pan to keep it sealed during baking.

Step 4: Add the Crispy Topping and Bake

Combine the remaining ¾ cup of panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your meatloaf. This step is the key to that irresistible golden crust. Bake for 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is safe and perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Dijon Parmesan Sauce

While the meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to create a roux, then slowly add milk while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy sauce is a luxurious complement that brings the entire dish to the next level.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute so your slices hold together nicely and are juicy in every bite. Serve with the warm Dijon Parmesan sauce ladled over top for maximum flavor impact.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the meatloaf slices adds a bright, herbal freshness and visual appeal. You could also add a few thin slices of extra Swiss cheese on top immediately after slicing for extra gooey indulgence.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. The creaminess of the potatoes balances the savory meatloaf, while the greens add a refreshing crunch to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, slice the meatloaf thickly and arrange the pieces on a platter with the Dijon Parmesan sauce drizzled artistically. You can also serve slices stuffed inside soft sandwich buns with a touch of Dijon mustard for a hearty sandwich twist that kids love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or an easy next-day dinner that tastes just as good.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meatloaf whole or in individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen properly, it will maintain great flavor and texture for up to 3 months—perfect for those weeks when you need a reliable homemade meal ready to go.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel or warm in a 350°F oven wrapped loosely in foil until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or extra sauce keeps the meatloaf moist during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will yield a slightly different flavor but the same wonderful texture and moistness when prepared as directed.

Is it necessary to use Black Forest ham?

While Black Forest ham brings a lovely smoky sweetness, you can substitute with other deli hams or even prosciutto for a different take. Just choose a ham with enough flavor to stand up to the cheese and mustard.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way to check is using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to guarantee your chicken is safely cooked and juicy.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use your favorite plant-based milk to make the sauce. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe tastes even better after a day in the fridge and can be portioned easily for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and just a bit special. Whether family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy all the layers of deliciousness that make this dish stand out from the usual weeknight fare.

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