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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza: A Culinary Masterpiece

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two classic dishes: the elegant Chicken Cordon Bleu and the comforting Meatloaf. This recipe combines the juicy tenderness of ground chicken, the savory richness of ham, and the creamy goodness of Swiss cheese, all baked into a hearty loaf. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and nutritional information to guide you in creating this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • Ground Chicken: 2 lbs (lean and versatile)
  • Egg: 1 large (for binding)
  • Bread Crumbs: 1/4 cup plain, plus 3/4 cup panko (for topping)
  • Onion: 2 teaspoons minced (adds flavor and moisture)
  • Garlic Powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons (enhances the savory profile)
  • Dried Parsley: 1/2 teaspoon (for a hint of freshness)
  • Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons (to taste)
  • Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (for a slight kick)
  • Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (keeps the meatloaf moist)
  • Virginia Chicken Ham: 6 slices (for that classic cordon bleu taste)
  • Swiss Cheese: 6 slices (creamy and melty)

For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:

  • Butter: 3 tablespoons
  • Flour: 3 tablespoons
  • Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup
  • Milk: 1 cup (skim or 1%)
  • Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated
  • Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs of ground chicken, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs, 2 teaspoons minced onion, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper.
  • Add 1/4 cup mayonnaise to the mixture to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
  • Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Assemble the Meatloaf:

  • Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of the loaf pan.
  • Lay 3 slices of Virginia chicken ham over the chicken mixture.
  • Place 3 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
  • Repeat the layering with the remaining chicken mixture, ham, and cheese.

4. Bake the Meatloaf:

  • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
  • After 25 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs over the top.
  • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy:

  • While the meatloaf is baking, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually add 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve the Meatloaf:

  • Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Serve each slice topped with the creamy Dijon gravy for an extra layer of flavor.

Notes

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground chicken, high-quality ham, and Swiss cheese will elevate the flavor.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it dense. Mix just until combined.
  3. Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  4. Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing helps retain its juices.
  5. Customize the Gravy: Adjust the Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese in the gravy to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition