Introduction
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf combines the elegance of traditional French Chicken Cordon Bleu with the comfort and heartiness of American meatloaf. This recipe offers a delectable mix of tender chicken, rich Swiss cheese, and savory ham, all topped with a creamy, tangy mustard-mayo blend. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings a sophisticated touch to your dining table without requiring complicated culinary skills.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Preparation and Cooking Method
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Mix these ingredients until they are well integrated. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meatloaf.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Fold in the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese gently. These ingredients are what give the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf its distinctive flavor and creamy texture inside.
- Shape and Top the Meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing down to ensure it’s evenly distributed. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over it. This will create a deliciously creamy and golden crust as it bakes.
- Baking: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is thoroughly cooked and the top is golden brown and bubbly. Cooking times may vary depending on oven performance, so it’s good to check the meatloaf towards the end of cooking.
- Resting the Meatloaf: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring that each slice is moist and flavorful.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf contains approximately 300 calories. This dish serves six, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Suggested Paragraphs: Enhancing Your Meal
Before concluding, consider serving suggestions to enhance the meal. Pairing this meatloaf with a light vegetable side dish, such as steamed green beans or a crisp salad, can balance the richness of the cheese and meat. For wine enthusiasts, a nice white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy Swiss cheese and savory chicken beautifully.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings together the best aspects of French and American cuisine. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a gourmet touch in their comfort food. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also sparks a love for culinary creativity in the home kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!