If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with something both comforting and delicious, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is just what you need. This recipe takes the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu—tender chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese—and transforms them into a cozy, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners any night of the week. Easy to prepare, packed with taste, and sure to impress everyone at the table, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a surefire way to bring joy to your mealtime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic flavors reinvented: Combines beloved chicken cordon bleu ingredients into a wholesome, one-dish meal.
Easy weeknight dinner: Straightforward steps and common ingredients mean less time cooking and more time enjoying.
Family crowd-pleaser: The cheesy, savory layers are perfect for both kids and adults alike.
Customizable and versatile: Easily adapt with different cheeses, herbs, or protein options.
Perfect leftovers: Leftover slices reheat beautifully, making lunch or next-day dinners a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf brings something essential to the table, from moistness and flavor depth to that beautiful golden crust and cheesy goodness. The simplicity of these ingredients is key to making this a go-to recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.

Ground chicken: Provides a lean, tender base for the meatloaf full of flavor.
Deli ham slices: Adds a salty, smoky note reminiscent of traditional cordon bleu.
Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly inside, creating gooey, irresistible pockets.
Bread crumbs: Help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist.
Eggs: Act as the glue that holds all the ingredients in perfect harmony.
Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic and onion powder: Build background flavor for depth without overpowering.
Milk: Adds moisture for a tender texture.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a hint of herbal freshness.
Salt and pepper: Essential to season and balance the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

This recipe is extremely flexible, allowing you to make substitutions or enhancements depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and make this your own!

Cheese swap: Use Gruyère, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
Protein options: Substitute ground turkey or a mix of chicken and pork for variety.
Gluten-free: Replace bread crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
Herb boost: Add rosemary, thyme, or chives for an aromatic touch.
Low-carb version: Skip the bread crumbs and mix in grated zucchini or cauliflower rice for texture.

Irresistible Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 2: Form and Layer the Meatloaf

Divide the meat mixture in half. On a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape one half into a rectangle. Layer the ham slices evenly over this base, then sprinkle the Swiss cheese on top. Gently cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges carefully.

Step 3: Add the Mustard Glaze

Brush the top of the meatloaf with Dijon mustard, which will add a lovely tang and help develop a golden crust as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is beautifully browned.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and make for easy, clean cuts.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Don’t overmix: Handling the meat gently prevents a dense, tough texture in your meatloaf.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat every time.
Double-wrap with ham and cheese: For extra gooey bites, add a second ham and cheese layer inside.
Line your loaf pan: Using parchment paper or foil makes removal easier and cleanup faster.
Rest to seal in juices: Allow the meatloaf to cool slightly before slicing to keep it moist.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives brightens the flavors and adds a pop of color to each slice. A dollop of Dijon mustard on the side complements the dish beautifully as well.

Side Dishes

Serve this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced, satisfying meal. Steamed broccoli or oven-roasted carrots are also excellent for adding some freshness and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini meatloafs in muffin tins for a fun, portion-controlled twist. For a fancier plate, slice and stack with a drizzle of creamy sauce or gravy, and garnish with microgreens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain freshness while flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatloaf whole or slice it before freezing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes on medium power, covering to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use something other than Swiss cheese?

Absolutely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can switch up the flavors while keeping that melty goodness inside.

Is ground chicken the best choice for this meatloaf?

Ground chicken keeps the meatloaf light and tender, but ground turkey or a chicken-pork blend work well too if you prefer a slightly richer taste.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Don’t overmix the meat, follow the cooking time closely, and be sure to include moist ingredients like milk and eggs to maintain juiciness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free ones or use almond flour to keep things safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

What can I serve alongside this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully. Roasted vegetables or a light pilaf also complement the meal nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a truly irresistible dish that brings together the best of comfort food and gourmet flavor in a simple, approachable recipe. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it promises to be a standout centerpiece that delights every palate. Give it a try tonight and watch it become your new favorite weeknight dinner!

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Print Recipe

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese into a comforting, flavorful meatloaf perfect for family dinners. Easy to prepare with common ingredients, this recipe features juicy ground chicken layered with ham and melted Swiss cheese, finished with a tangy Dijon mustard glaze and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for weeknight meals and delicious leftovers, it’s customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (with ingredient substitutions)

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Base

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup bread crumbs (or almond flour/gluten-free panko for gluten-free)
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Fillings & Toppings

6–8 slices deli ham
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère, mozzarella, sharp cheddar)
2 tbsp Dijon mustard (for glaze)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
Form and Layer the Meatloaf: Divide the meat mixture in half. On a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape one half into a rectangle. Lay the ham slices evenly over the meat layer, then sprinkle the Swiss cheese atop the ham. Cover gently with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges completely.
Add the Mustard Glaze: Brush the surface of the meatloaf with Dijon mustard, which will add a tangy flavor and help form a golden crust during baking.
Bake to Perfection: Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is nicely browned.
Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after removing from the oven to retain juices and allow for cleaner slicing.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense, tough texture.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe and perfect cooking.
For extra gooey bites, add a second layer of ham and cheese inside.
Line your loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and removal.
Rest the meatloaf before slicing to keep it moist and juicy.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of meatloaf)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 125 mg

Keywords: chicken meatloaf, chicken cordon bleu, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, baked meatloaf, gluten-free meatloaf