Oh, my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever craved the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu but wanted something a little more unique and manageable, then this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is going to knock your socks off!
I stumbled upon this recipe during a rare moment of browsing through family cookbooks on a rainy afternoon. My grandmother had always been a fan of meatloaf, and I had fond memories of Sunday dinners where the house smelled like savory goodness. I thought, “Why not take one of my favorite chicken dishes and give it a twist?” Voilà! The Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf was born! It combines everything you love about the classic dish—chicken, ham, and gooey cheese—with the humble meatloaf’s heartiness. The result? A delectable, satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner and even better as leftovers!
What’s in Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
Now, let me break down the star ingredients that make this meatloaf shine. Each one plays an important role in creating that delicious, nostalgic flavor profile:
Ground Chicken: The heart of our meatloaf. It’s leaner than beef but just as versatile. I prefer using ground chicken breast for a lighter dish.
Cooked Ham: This is where the magic happens! The saltiness of cooked ham beautifully complements the chicken and adds that classic Cordon Bleu essence. Go for a good-quality deli ham!
Swiss Cheese: Nothing beats a gooey cheese moment! Swiss cheese melts perfectly and has just the right amount of nuttiness to balance the other flavors.
Breadcrumbs: They’re essential for binding everything together. I usually opt for plain breadcrumbs, but panko will give it an extra crunchy texture!
Eggs: Another essential binder, eggs help hold that delightful mixture together while keeping it moist.
Onion and Garlic: For that depth of flavor, I always sauté them a bit beforehand to enhance their sweetness and aroma—nothing beats that smell wafting through the kitchen!
Mustard: A little tang goes a long way! I like to use Dijon mustard in the glaze for its kick, but yellow mustard will work just fine.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Good for You?
Ah, the big question! While this meatloaf is a fantastic comfort food option, it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:
Lean Protein: Ground chicken offers a great source of protein without the hefty fat content found in traditional beef meatloaf, making it ideal for those watching their cholesterol.
Ham: Although ham provides additional proteins, it can also be higher in sodium. If you’re mindful of your salt intake, consider using a low-sodium version.
Cheese: Swiss cheese adds calcium to your meal; it’s good for those bones! Just balance it out with the overall consumption if you’re watching your fat intake.
So, while it might not be the lightest dish on the block, when enjoyed in moderation, this meatloaf can definitely be part of a balanced meal!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Set them aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and cooled onion-garlic mixture.
4. Add the eggs and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined—don’t overdo it!
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it to your liking.
6. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If desired, brush some extra mustard on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a flavorful glaze!
7. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps hold the juices in!
Delicious Tips and Variations!
Want to personalize your meatloaf? Here are some fun ideas:
– **Herbs:** Consider adding dried thyme or Italian seasoning for a little herby twist.
– **Glaze Variations:** Mix the mustard with a bit of honey or brown sugar for a sweet glaze.
– **Add Veggies:** Shredded carrots or spinach can add both color and nutrition to the mix.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This meatloaf is incredibly versatile! Serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a tangy coleslaw to brighten things up!
I can’t tell you how excited I am for you to try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf. It brings back wonderful memories, and I hope it does the same for you! Give it a go, share your twists on the recipe, and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!
