Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf With Dijon Gravy Recipe

Golden Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf With Dijon Gravy Recipe

Succulent chicken cordon bleu-inspired meatloaf brings classic comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Layers of savory ham and melted swiss cheese hide inside a perfectly seasoned ground chicken blend.

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when this dish starts coming together.

Hearty and satisfying, this recipe reimagines the traditional French-inspired chicken dish into a rustic, family-friendly meal.

Dijon gravy adds a tangy punch that complements the rich, creamy interior of each slice.

Every bite promises a delightful surprise that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Serve this meatloaf alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and memorable dinner experience.

Why You’ll Love Meatloaf With Dijon Gravy

  • Craft a Protein-Packed Powerhouse: Combining ground chicken, ham, and swiss cheese creates a nutrient-dense meal that satisfies hunger and delivers robust flavors.
  • Master a Simple Culinary Technique: This recipe introduces home cooks to basic meatloaf preparation with straightforward mixing and baking steps that even novice chefs can successfully execute.
  • Elevate Comfort Food with Gourmet Twist: The dijon mustard and homemade gravy transform a classic meatloaf into an elevated dish that feels restaurant-worthy while maintaining familiar, comforting elements.
  • Accommodate Dietary Preferences: The flexible recipe allows easy modifications for different protein choices or cheese variations, making it adaptable for various taste preferences and dietary needs.

What Goes In Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

For the Protein Base:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean protein that forms the foundation of the meatloaf.
  • Diced Ham: Adds extra flavor and richness to the meat mixture.
  • Shredded Swiss Cheese: Provides a creamy, nutty element to enhance the overall taste.
For the Binding Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Eggs, Milk: Work together to create a moist and cohesive texture for the meatloaf.
For the Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Dijon Mustard: Brings a tangy and sharp flavor to the dish.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Add depth and aromatic complexity to the meatloaf.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the overall taste.
For the Gravy Ingredients:
  • Butter, Flour: Create a classic roux base for the smooth gravy.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides liquid and additional savory flavor to the gravy.

Steps For Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven And Prep The Dish

Crank the oven to 375°F and lightly spray a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Protein Foundation

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Ground chicken
  • Diced ham
  • Shredded swiss cheese

Mix the ingredients until they form a uniform protein base.

Step 3: Build The Meatloaf Mixture

Introduce additional ingredients to the protein blend:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Eggs
  • Milk

Gently fold these components until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Season The Flavor Profile

Sprinkle in the flavor enhancers:
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the meat mixture.

Step 5: Shape The Meatloaf

Transfer the seasoned mixture into the prepared baking dish. Carefully mold it into a compact, uniform loaf with smooth, even edges.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven. Roast for 55-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer confirms an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Craft The Dijon Gravy

While the meatloaf cooks, create a delectable sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 8: Develop The Gravy Base

Whisk flour into the melted butter, forming a smooth roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumpy texture.

Step 9: Simmer And Thicken

Let the gravy simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reaches a rich, velvety consistency. Remove from heat.

Step 10: Rest And Serve

After removing the meatloaf from the oven, allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices for maximum flavor.

Step 11: Final Touch

Slice the meatloaf and generously drizzle with the warm dijon gravy before serving.

Pro Tips For Juicy Dijon Meatloaf

  • Maximize Moisture: Add milk and eggs to keep the ground chicken tender and prevent dryness during baking.
  • Prevent Crumbling: Gently fold ingredients together without overmixing to maintain a cohesive meatloaf texture that holds its shape.
  • Boost Flavor Depth: Incorporate dijon mustard and blend multiple seasonings to elevate the overall taste profile of the dish.
  • Ensure Safe Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing thorough chicken cooking.
  • Enhance Serving Quality: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking, enabling juices to redistribute and improve slicing consistency.

Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe Ideas

  • Keto-Friendly Chicken Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, use full-fat cheese, and skip milk to create a low-carb version.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Meatloaf: Swap ham with crumbled feta cheese, add chopped kalamata olives, and incorporate dried oregano for a Greek-inspired profile.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Meatloaf: Mix in diced jalapeños, replace dijon mustard with sriracha, and use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
  • Gluten-Free Chicken Meatloaf: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds, ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free, and substitute wheat flour in gravy with cornstarch.

Sides To Serve With Dijon Meatloaf

  • Pair Robust Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or Beaujolais to complement the rich chicken and ham flavors, cutting through the creamy swiss cheese and balancing the dijon mustard's tangy notes.
  • Serve with Crisp Green Salad: Toss a light arugula or mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette to provide a fresh, peppery contrast to the hearty meatloaf and add a refreshing element to the meal.
  • Match with Roasted Root Vegetables: Prepare caramelized carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes as a side dish to echo the meatloaf's warm, savory profile and provide a complementary texture and earthy sweetness.

Storing Dijon Gravy Meatloaf Safely

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, maintaining optimal freshness and preventing bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no air pockets that could cause freezer burn.
  • Place meatloaf slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to prevent drying out.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf FAQs

  • Is ground chicken healthier than beef meatloaf?

Ground chicken is leaner with lower fat content, making it a healthier protein option compared to traditional beef meatloaf. It provides similar protein levels while reducing overall calorie intake.

  • Can I substitute ham in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace ham with bacon, turkey ham, or prosciutto. Each alternative will slightly modify the flavor profile but maintain the recipe’s core protein structure.

  • What makes dijon mustard essential in this recipe?

Dijon mustard adds a tangy, sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of chicken and cheese. It provides depth and complexity to the meatloaf’s overall taste without overpowering other ingredients.

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Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf With Dijon Gravy Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf With Dijon Gravy Recipe


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4.8 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20-25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent chicken cordon bleu-inspired meatloaf brings gourmet comfort to classic home cooking. Rich ham and swiss cheese nestled within juicy ground chicken create a savory masterpiece perfect for dinner with family or friends.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 4 slices ham, diced
  • 1 cup swiss cheese, shredded

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk

Seasoning and Gravy Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a large baking dish with a light coating of non-stick spray.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground chicken, diced ham, and shredded swiss cheese, creating a harmonious protein blend.
  3. Integrate breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk into the meat mixture, gently folding until ingredients are evenly distributed and the texture becomes cohesive.
  4. Incorporate dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the seasonings are uniformly mixed throughout the meat.
  5. Transfer the seasoned mixture into the prepared baking dish, carefully shaping it into a compact, even loaf with smooth edges.
  6. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
  7. While the meatloaf roasts, prepare the dijon gravy by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  8. Whisk flour into the melted butter, creating a smooth roux, and gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  9. Simmer the gravy for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a rich, velvety consistency, then remove from heat.
  10. Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Slice the meatloaf and drizzle with the warm dijon gravy before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure ground chicken is fresh and cold for better binding and texture during mixing.
  • Mix ingredients gently to prevent dense, tough meatloaf by avoiding overmixing.
  • Consider using panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness and lighter overall texture.
  • Test internal temperature with a reliable meat thermometer to guarantee safe and juicy results.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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