Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite twist on a classic dish: Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf! I mean, who would have thought to combine the rich, gooey goodness of cordon bleu with the comfort of meatloaf? When I first tried this recipe at a friend’s dinner party, I was instantly hooked. It was a unique and surprising take that brought all my favorite flavors together in a cozy, hearty dish.
There’s something so satisfying about a meatloaf that’s stuffed with layers of Swiss cheese and ham, and topped off with a creamy mushroom sauce. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want to cuddle up with a plate of deliciousness. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and will definitely impress any guests you have over!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
Let’s talk about the star ingredients that bring this wonderful meatloaf to life. Each item plays a key role in creating that unforgettable flavor and texture.
Ground Chicken: The main player in this dish, it keeps things light and juicy. I personally prefer using ground chicken rather than turkey because it has a slightly milder flavor and a great texture for a meatloaf.
Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for binding the meatloaf together and giving it a nice crumbly texture. I like using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This cheesy goodness adds a salty, umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. A little sprinkle here and there goes a long way in the flavor department.
Parsley: Fresh herbs always liven up a dish! Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but a refreshing flavor as well.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These are my secret weapons for flavor! They create such a warm, savory aroma.
Swiss Cheese: The star of the filling! Its rich, creamy texture and nutty flavor pair beautifully with the ham.
Deli Ham: Sweet, savory, and oh-so-oozy—this ham really rounds out the flavor profile and gives that classic cordon bleu experience.
Chicken Broth: A little drizzle over the top keeps things moist while baking and enhances the overall flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the finishing touch that ties it all together! You can’t go wrong with a warm drizzle of creamy goodness over your slices.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect, because I know many of us like to find that balance between indulgence and nutrition!
Ground Chicken: It can be a great lean protein option compared to beef or pork, making this dish a bit lighter. Just be mindful of the fat content if you prefer skinless chicken!
Parmesan Cheese: While tasty, cheese can add up in calories, so use it wisely if you’re watching your intake.
Breadcrumbs: If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, whole wheat breadcrumbs are a fantastic alternative for added fiber!
The only downside is that with creamy soups and cheese, this dish isn’t exactly the healthiest, but if you enjoy it in moderation, you’re good to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for topping)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 8 slices Swiss cheese
– 8 slices deli ham
– 1 cup chicken broth (for moisture)
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup (for sauce)
This recipe serves about 6 hungry folks, but hey, if they love it as much as I do, they might be going for seconds!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty in the kitchen! Here’s how to whip up this delightful dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). I like to grease a loaf pan or use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and eggs until everything is just combined. No overmixing, folks!
3. Divide the mixture in half. Press the first half into the bottom of your loaf pan to form a nice base.
4. Now, layer in those Swiss cheese slices and the deli ham evenly over the chicken base. This is the gooey goodness everyone will remember!
5. Spread the remaining chicken mixture on top and press it gently to seal the edges—think of it as giving it a snug little blanket.
6. Sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs over the top for a lovely golden crust.
7. Pour the chicken broth over it, ensuring everything stays nice and moist as it bakes.
8. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). Your house will smell like heaven, I promise!
9. While that beauty is baking, heat the cream of chicken soup until it’s nice and warm.
10. When the meatloaf is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes. Then slice and serve with that warm creamy soup drizzled on top!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf
Pair this succulent meatloaf with a side of roasted veggies or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. And hey, if you have leftovers, they make for delightful sandwiches the next day! Just imagine a meatloaf sandwich on thick, crusty bread. Heaven!
In closing, I really hope you give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf a try! It’s one of those recipes that you’re going to want to add to your regular rotation; trust me, once you taste it, there’s no going back. I can’t wait to hear how much you love it—be sure to drop a comment or send me a pic of your tasty creation! Happy cooking!
