Ah, the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu! It’s a dish that seems to have a special hold on people, and for good reason: that delightful combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey cheese is downright comforting. Today, I’m thrilled to share a twist on this beloved dish that the whole family will adore—Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed something quick, but still wanted to enjoy the rich flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. Trust me, it’s a winner and has since become a staple in my rotations.
What makes this meatloaf unique is its appealing presentation and the harmonious blend of flavors. Imagine slicing into a juicy, flavorful meatloaf and revealing layers of ham and melted cheese—that’s what joy tastes like! I often make it for my family gatherings, and I can guarantee the children (and adults!) will thank you for it.
What’s in Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
Ground Chicken: The star of our meatloaf! It keeps it lean and tender. I prefer using a high-quality, 93% lean ground chicken for the best results.
Ham: This adds a lovely saltiness and layer of flavor. I usually go for a good deli-style ham, but any ham that slices well will do.
Swiss Cheese: Melty, gooey, and perfectly complements the ham. I like to use a mild Swiss, but feel free to substitute with Gruyère for an extra kick!
Breadcrumbs: They help to hold everything together without making the loaf too dense. I opt for plain breadcrumbs, but if you want to add Italian seasoning, go for it!
Egg: A binding agent that provides structure to the meatloaf, ensuring that it holds its shape during cooking.
Mustard: A little tang to elevate the flavor—adding just the right amount of zest!
Is Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Good for You?
Absolutely! This meatloaf packs some nutritious benefits while being deliciously satisfying!
Ground Chicken: A lower-fat alternative to traditional beef. It’s a fantastic source of protein which helps build muscle and keeps you feeling full.
Ham: While savory and delightful, you may want to be mindful of sodium levels. Opting for a low-sodium ham can keep it healthier.
Swiss Cheese: It brings calcium to the table, which is great for bone health. Just keep in mind the portion to manage fat intake.
This meatloaf is a delightful way to sneak in some protein and could even be a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!
Ingredients List
– 2 pounds ground chicken
– 1 cup diced ham
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon for a kick, or plain yellow for milder taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe typically serves about 6-8 people, depending on how hungry you all are!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything together gently—don’t overmix, or your meatloaf might become tough!
4. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle some additional Swiss cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking!
7. Once cooked, let it rest for about 10 minutes to help keep it juicy before slicing.
Delicious Suggestions for a Mouthwatering Experience
– **Dipping Sauce:** Try pairing this meatloaf with a mustard or honey mustard dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!
– **Vegetable Sides:** Serve with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
– **Leftovers?** Use any leftovers to make delicious sandwiches the next day. Just pile the meatloaf onto a toasted bun and maybe add some lettuce and more Swiss cheese. Heaven!
I genuinely hope you give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf a try! It’s a wonderful, hearty dish filled with flavors that feels like a cozy hug. Plus, I promise it’ll bring smiles to the table! Don’t forget to share your experiences with me or snap a picture! Happy cooking!
