Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re ever torn between craving a cozy meatloaf and the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu, you’re in for a treat! Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf weaves together juicy ground chicken, smoky ham, and nutty Swiss cheese into one epic comfort dish. The result? Each bite is melty, savory, and gently seasoned, capturing everything you love about the traditional dish but in an easy, impressive loaf—perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Trust me, once you try this spin, it’ll become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the magic fool you—this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf comes together with just a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient truly counts, adding its own flavor, texture, or color to create a layered, delicious experience in every bite.

• Ground chicken (1 1/2 pounds): Look for ground chicken breast for a lighter loaf, or use a mix of light and dark meat for extra juiciness.
• Plain breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): These help bind everything and give the meatloaf its perfect sliceable texture.
• Large egg (1): The egg acts as a glue, holding your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf together as it bakes.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Splashing in a bit of milk ensures your loaf is tender, never dry.
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds classic cordon bleu tang with a subtle punch—don’t skip it!
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Just the right amount for flavor depth without overpowering the star ingredients.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings gentle sweetness and big meatloaf flavor.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances everything and brings out each flavor in the loaf.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a hint of warmth and rounds out the seasoning.
• Deli ham slices (6 slices): Classic for true cordon bleu vibes—choose a good-quality ham for best results.
• Shredded Swiss cheese (1 cup, divided): Shred it fresh for ultimate meltiness throughout your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf.
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): For a pretty pop of green and fresh flavor as a garnish.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease with nonstick spray. This step ensures your meatloaf pops out easily and slices perfectly once it’s ready.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, add your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a large spoon to gently combine until everything is just mixed—you don’t want to overwork it or your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf might end up dense.

Step 3: Build the Layers

Press about half of your meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan. Layer the ham slices directly over the top, making sure to overlap them all the way to the edges so every slice gets a bite of ham. Sprinkle half of your shredded Swiss cheese over the ham, spreading it out for gooey goodness in every bite.

Step 4: Add the Final Layer and Smooth

Spoon the rest of your chicken mixture on top, gently spreading and smoothing with a spatula so you seal in all that cheesy, ham-filled goodness. Take your time here—it’s what gives your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf its picture-perfect layers when you cut into it.

Step 5: Bake to Melted Perfection

Pop your loaf pan into the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. You’re looking for the meatloaf to cook through completely (it should register 165°F or 74°C in the center). About five minutes before the end, sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top and bake until melty and golden. For an extra bubbly, slightly crisp cheese finish, switch on the broiler for the final 1–2 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Garnish

Once your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is baked to perfection, let it rest in the pan for 5–10 minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes slicing a breeze. Lift it out, transfer to a platter, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’re using it. Slice away and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds bright color and a touch of freshness, beautifully balancing those rich, cheesy flavors. If you like, add a crack of black pepper or a dusting of extra Swiss for a bistro-style flourish.

Side Dishes

Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf shines next to buttery mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a crisp green salad. Even a simple side of roasted carrots or a scoop of creamy rice makes it a cozy, family-friendly dinner everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your meatloaf thick and plating each piece atop a swirl of Dijon cream sauce for a restaurant-inspired look. Or, make mini loaves in a muffin pan for adorable individual servings—perfect for entertaining and perfect portion control.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf tightly in foil or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to three days, staying just as flavorful and tender when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, simply let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Stash in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). You can microwave individual pieces on medium power, but watch carefully to prevent drying the meatloaf out. A splash of chicken broth or a pat of butter adds a bit of moisture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe. It brings a similar lean texture and soaks up the flavors of ham and Swiss beautifully—just make sure to use turkey with a bit of fat to keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf juicy.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If Dijon is missing from your pantry, yellow mustard or even a bit of spicy brown mustard will do the trick. It’ll slightly change the flavor, but your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf will still taste amazing.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the regular kind and double-check that your ham is gluten-free. Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf will turn out just as delicious for everyone at the table.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center—the loaf is ready when it hits 165°F (74°C). Resting it for a few minutes helps juices settle and makes for easier slicing of your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf.

What’s the best way to keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

The egg and breadcrumbs help bind everything together, so make sure to measure them accurately and mix thoroughly without overworking. Letting the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf rest before slicing also helps it hold its shape beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about sharing a dinner that lands squarely between classic comfort food and something a little bit special—just like this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf. If you’re looking to wow your family or just treat yourself, give this recipe a try. You may discover it’s the kind of meal everyone wants you to make again and again!

Print