This Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining the savory flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a hearty meatloaf. Topped with a rich and creamy Dijon gravy, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
For the Dijon Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
Shape and Bake:
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it into an even layer.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Make the Dijon Gravy:
- Prepare the Roux: While the meatloaf is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Thicken the Gravy: Cook for 3-5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the rested meatloaf and drizzle generously with the warm Dijon gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Serve with Sides: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf takes the classic flavors of the beloved dish and transforms them into a family-friendly, easy-to-make meal. The combination of juicy ground chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor. The rich Dijon gravy elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality level, making it perfect for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals.
Enjoy this comforting dish and impress your loved ones with a creative twist on a classic favorite!
