Description
A creative twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, this meatloaf combines the savory flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese with a golden panko topping and a rich Dijon gravy. Perfect for a hearty dinner with a gourmet feel!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 large egg (for binding)
- 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 teaspoons minced onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (to keep the meatloaf moist)
- 6 slices Virginia chicken ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
For the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk (skim or 1%)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, plain bread crumbs, minced onion, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, ground black pepper, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
3️⃣ Assemble the Meatloaf Layers:
Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared loaf pan.
Layer 3 slices of Virginia chicken ham over the chicken mixture, followed by 3 slices of Swiss cheese.
Repeat with the remaining chicken mixture, adding another layer of ham and cheese on top.
4️⃣ Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5️⃣ Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve each slice topped with the creamy Dijon gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Cheese Variation: Swap Swiss with Gruyère or provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare and assemble the meatloaf in advance, then bake when ready to serve.