Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something comforting yet exciting? Then get ready to be amazed by this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf! This recipe takes the beloved flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu – tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese – and transforms them into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meatloaf. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a fun, family-friendly twist, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 lb sliced cooked ham, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle the top with olive oil.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use quality ingredients: Using high-quality ground chicken and good Swiss cheese will make a big difference in the flavor of the meatloaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps it retain its juices and makes for a more tender and flavorful result.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.
- Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or provolone.
- Herb variations: Try using different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese is simply irresistible. It's a quick and easy recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!