Chicken Cordon Bleu Inspired Meatloaf with Dijon Gravy

Description

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Inspired Meatloaf is a comforting twist on the classic French dish. Juicy ground chicken is layered with smoky ham and melty cheese, then baked into a tender meatloaf and topped with a rich, tangy Dijon gravy. It’s cozy, flavorful, and perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 6–8 slices deli ham
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)

For the Dijon Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture

• In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).

2. Assemble

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• On a lined baking tray, flatten half of the meat mixture into a rectangle.
• Layer ham slices and shredded cheese in the center.
• Top with remaining meat mixture and seal edges to form a loaf.

3. Bake

• Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

4. Make Dijon Gravy

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
• Gradually add chicken broth while whisking.
• Stir in Dijon mustard and cream.
• Simmer until thickened. Season to taste.

5. Serve

• Slice meatloaf and drizzle generously with Dijon gravy.

Tips

• Use ground chicken thigh for a juicier meatloaf.
• Don’t skip resting time—it helps slices hold shape.
• Add a crispy topping by brushing with butter and broiling for 2–3 minutes.
• Use Gruyère cheese for a more authentic flavor.

Notes

• You can prep and assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
• This recipe freezes well (before or after baking).
• If mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.

Servings

• Serves: 6

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g

Benefits

• High in protein for muscle support
• More budget-friendly than traditional cordon bleu
• Balanced comfort meal with rich flavor
• Can be made ahead for meal prep

Q&A

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes, turkey works great as a substitute.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Swiss or Gruyère for classic flavor, but mozzarella is milder.

Q: How do I prevent dryness?
A: Don’t overcook and use enough moisture (milk + egg).

Q: Can I make it without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, use crushed crackers or almond flour as a substitute.

Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.