Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Creamy Dijon Gravy is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, bringing together the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese in a comforting meatloaf format. Topped with a luscious, tangy Dijon gravy, this dish combines elegance with down-home comfort, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with protein, rich flavors, and a creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavors: The combination of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese echoes the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- Comfort Food Favorite: The meatloaf format adds a cozy, homey twist to the classic dish.
- Easy Preparation: Far simpler than individually rolling chicken breasts, this meatloaf saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Creamy Dijon Gravy: The tangy, rich sauce takes the dish to the next level.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your tastes or dietary preferences with ingredient swaps.
- Impressive Yet Simple: A perfect balance of elegant flavors and weeknight ease.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Serving Size: 1 slice of meatloaf with gravy
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 slices deli ham, chopped
- 6 slices Swiss cheese, chopped
For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the chopped ham and Swiss cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the Meatloaf:
- Cook: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
- Make a Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbling.
- Add the Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Flavor the Gravy: Stir in the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the gravy is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve:
- Slice and Plate: Slice the meatloaf and arrange on plates.
- Top with Gravy: Generously spoon the creamy Dijon gravy over each slice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Ingredient Background
- Ground Chicken: Offers a lighter, leaner base for the meatloaf, though ground turkey can be substituted.
- Deli Ham and Swiss Cheese: Replicate the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu, with ham adding saltiness and Swiss cheese providing creaminess.
- Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds tanginess to the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Technique Tips
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the meatloaf ingredients to prevent a dense texture.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Smooth Gravy: Continuously whisk the gravy to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain its juices and shape.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into muffin tins for individual portions, adjusting the baking time to 25-30 minutes.
- Stuffed Meatloaf: Layer the ham and Swiss cheese in the center of the loaf instead of mixing it in.
- Casserole Style: Spread the meatloaf mixture in a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake.
Additional Tips for Success
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper to make removing the meatloaf from the pan easier.
- Gravy Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more broth (thinner) or cooking longer (thicker).
- Enhance Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the gravy for a subtle, warming note.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for the flour in the gravy.
- Vegetable Mix-Ins: Add finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meatloaf for added nutrients.
- Cheese Swap: Replace Swiss cheese with Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor.
Freezing and Storage
Freezing:
- Uncooked Meatloaf: Shape the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
- Cooked Meatloaf: Wrap slices in foil or store in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Lean Meat: Use ground turkey or extra lean chicken for fewer calories and less fat.
- Whole-Grain Breadcrumbs: Swap plain breadcrumbs for whole-grain to boost fiber.
- Lighter Gravy: Substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for the heavy cream in the gravy.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate shredded carrots, zucchini, or spinach into the meatloaf for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Family Dinners: Pair with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Holiday Spread: Serve alongside a green bean casserole and rolls for an elegant holiday entrée.
- Party Platter: Slice the meatloaf into small portions and arrange on a platter with gravy for buffet-style serving.
Special Equipment
- Loaf Pan: Essential for shaping and baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Meat Thermometer: Guarantees the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar flavor profile.
2. What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
Gruyere, provolone, or mozzarella are great substitutes for Swiss cheese.
3. How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Don’t overbake, and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
4. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the gravy in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch in place of flour for the gravy.
6. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Yes, finely chop vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a larger dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Creamy Dijon Gravy is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines the elegance of a classic French recipe with the heartiness of a homestyle meatloaf. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its tender chicken, savory ham, melty cheese, and tangy gravy. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication!
Print
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Creamy Dijon Gravy
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 slices deli ham, chopped
- 6 slices Swiss cheese, chopped
For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.
- Add Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the chopped ham and Swiss cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the Meatloaf:
- Cook: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
- Make a Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbling.
- Add the Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Flavor the Gravy: Stir in the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the gravy is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve:
- Slice and Plate: Slice the meatloaf and arrange on plates.
- Top with Gravy: Generously spoon the creamy Dijon gravy over each slice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice of meatloaf
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g