There’s something irresistible about the savory layers of Chicken Cordon Bleu, and this meatloaf version brings all those flavors together in one easy-to-make dish. Imagine tender ground chicken mixed with herbs, oozing melted Swiss cheese, and savory bites of ham, all baked to golden perfection.

I first whipped up this recipe on a rainy weekend when I wanted comfort food without the hassle of rolling and frying traditional cordon bleu. This has quickly become a family favorite, especially since it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Get ready to add a new go-to recipe to your dinner rotation. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic dish with the convenience of a one-pan meal.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. No pounding chicken breasts or tricky rolling techniques here. Just mix, layer, and bake!

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and salty ham makes every bite packed with flavor. Even picky eaters can’t resist this comforting dish.

This recipe is budget-friendly. Using ground chicken and deli ham keeps costs low while still delivering gourmet-level results.

Finally, it’s a great make-ahead option. You can prep it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning.

Let’s dive into the simple ingredients that make this dish shine!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its short, simple ingredient list, each playing a vital role in creating that signature cordon bleu flavor.

Ground Chicken: The base of this meatloaf. It’s mild, tender, and the perfect canvas for the other bold flavors. If you prefer, ground turkey can be used as a substitute.
Swiss Cheese: The creamy, nutty flavor of Swiss is a must. Pre-sliced cheese works well for easy layering, but shredded Swiss also melts beautifully.
Deli Ham: Thin slices of ham add that classic salty bite. Choose your favorite variety, whether it’s honey ham, smoked ham, or Black Forest.
Breadcrumbs and Milk: These ingredients ensure your meatloaf stays moist and tender. Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Dijon Mustard: A little Dijon mixed into the meat adds a tangy depth of flavor that ties the dish together.
Eggs: They act as a binder, keeping the meatloaf from falling apart.

You’ll also need a loaf pan for this recipe. If you don’t have one, shape the meatloaf on a lined baking sheet instead.

How to Make This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Crafting this delicious meatloaf is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 2: Layer the Filling

Transfer half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down to create an even layer. Lay down a layer of deli ham, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese. Repeat with another layer of ham. Top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to encase the filling completely.

Step 3: Add the Topping

For extra flavor, brush the top with a mixture of Dijon mustard and a touch of honey. This creates a golden, flavorful glaze as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

The result? A juicy, flavorful meatloaf with melted cheese and ham tucked into every bite.

Storage Options

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerator: Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, use the microwave on a medium setting.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Different Cheeses: Swap Swiss for Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone for a unique twist.
Add Veggies: Mix finely chopped spinach or cooked mushrooms into the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check the ham to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Low-Carb: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a kick of heat.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. No matter how you adapt it, it’s sure to be a hit!

There you have it – a comforting, flavorful twist on classic Chicken Cordon Bleu that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Ready to give it a try? Let me know how it turns out in the comments!