There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf baking in the oven. This twist on a classic dish transforms the elegance of chicken cordon bleu into a hearty, family-friendly meatloaf that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

I first made this recipe on a whim when I craved the flavors of creamy cheese and smoky ham but wanted something a little more filling. It quickly became a family favorite, delivering all the indulgent goodness of the original dish in a simple, sliceable format.

Ready to elevate your meatloaf game? Let’s dive into the details!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation! This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe that's full of irresistible flavors.

First, it combines the rich, creamy flavors of Swiss cheese, ham, and chicken, wrapped up in an easy-to-make loaf. If you're a fan of classic chicken cordon bleu but dread the hassle of rolling and frying, this simplified version will win you over.

It's also a fantastic make-ahead meal. Assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven when you're ready to cook. With just a little prep, you'll have a dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners.

On top of that, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Best of all? It’s budget-friendly! Using ground chicken keeps costs low while delivering a moist, tender meatloaf that's as satisfying as it is economical.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf lies in its thoughtful combination of simple ingredients. Let’s break down what makes this dish so special.

Ground chicken is the star of the show. Its mild flavor provides the perfect base for the rich, savory notes of ham and cheese. You can also use ground turkey if you prefer.
Ham slices add a smoky, salty punch that complements the creamy cheese. Opt for thinly sliced deli ham for easy layering, or use leftover baked ham for a heartier bite.
Swiss cheese brings its signature nutty flavor. It melts beautifully, creating pockets of creamy goodness throughout the loaf. Gouda or mozzarella are great alternatives if you’re not a fan of Swiss.
Breadcrumbs bind the meatloaf together while keeping it tender. Panko works wonderfully here, but regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can be used in a pinch.
Dijon mustard and garlic powder infuse the loaf with a subtle tangy depth that mimics the flavors of traditional chicken cordon bleu. Don’t skip these – they take the dish to the next level!

For this recipe, you’ll need a standard loaf pan, parchment paper for easy cleanup, and a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.

How To Make This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Creating this mouthwatering meatloaf is simpler than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Step 1: Prep the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined – overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 2: Layer the Fillings

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal. Press half of the chicken mixture into the bottom of the pan, creating an even layer. Lay the ham slices over the top, followed by a layer of Swiss cheese slices. Finish with the remaining chicken mixture, pressing it down gently to seal the edges.

Step 3: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the loaf pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment paper. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

This recipe takes about an hour from start to finish, making it a convenient option for a satisfying dinner.

Storage Options

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them in 30-second intervals until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Change the Cheese: Not a fan of Swiss? Substitute it with Gouda, provolone, or even sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
Add Vegetables: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a bit of heat.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
Try a Sauce: Drizzle a creamy béchamel or a honey mustard glaze over the top for extra indulgence.

Experimenting with flavors and textures will help you find the perfect version of this recipe to suit your family’s taste.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf delivers a little bit of everything: the elegance of a classic dish, the ease of a one-pan meal, and the heartiness of comfort food. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply feeding a hungry family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.