A chicken cordon bleu meatloaf that’s easy to prepare for a comforting dinner, with juicy chicken, smoked ham, and a touch of melted cheese.
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Why We Love This Cordon Bleu Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
The chicken cordon bleu meatloaf is a bold twist on a classic dish. This recipe combines the tenderness of ground chicken with the richness of ham and melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating. This flavorful dish offers an innovative alternative to the traditional cordon bleu while maintaining its distinctive taste.
One of the main reasons this dish has become a favorite is its ease of preparation. Unlike the classic version, which requires the careful rolling of ingredients, this meatloaf is shaped in one step before baking. The result: a moist texture, a melting heart, and a slightly crispy crust that will delight lovers of hearty dishes.
Why We Love This Cordon Bleu Chicken Meatloaf Recipe? Because it combines the comfort of a traditional meatloaf with the refined flavors of cordon bleu. It’s perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests with an elegant presentation and authentic taste. Served with a creamy mustard sauce or homemade mashed potatoes, it becomes both a comforting and sophisticated dish.
What is Chicken Cordon Bleu?
The chicken cordon bleu meatloaf is a reimagined and bold version of the famous cordon bleu. This dish combines the tenderness of ground chicken, the subtle flavor of smoked ham, and the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating. A tasty alternative that blends tradition and modernity in one dish.
But before diving deeper, What is Chicken Cordon Bleu? It is a European-origin dish where a meat cutlet—often chicken or veal—is stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried to perfection. This recipe has won over palates worldwide with its crunchy exterior and melting interior.
By transforming this dish into a meatloaf, the preparation is simplified while still preserving its iconic flavors. Simply mix the ingredients, form the meatloaf, and bake for a tender and flavorful result. Served with a creamy mustard sauce or homemade mashed potatoes, this chicken cordon bleu meatloaf becomes a must-have for comforting and elegant meals.
What Makes this Chicken Meatloaf So Moist And Delicious?
The chicken cordon bleu meatloaf is an ingenious variation of the famous cordon bleu, offering a melting texture and refined flavors. By combining ground chicken, delicately smoked ham, and melted cheese, this dish reinterprets a classic with a modern twist. The golden, crispy coating adds an irresistible touch that elevates every bite.
But What Makes this Chicken Meatloaf So Moist And Delicious? The secret lies in the perfect balance of ingredients. Ground chicken, often prone to drying out, is here enhanced by the addition of cream or yogurt, which keeps it tender. The cheese, on the other hand, provides a rich, indulgent taste that melts into a creamy texture at the heart of the meatloaf. Finally, the breadcrumbs and eggs ensure a harmonious binding, preventing any dryness and ensuring a tender, flavorful consistency.
This chicken cordon bleu meatloaf pairs beautifully with a creamy mustard sauce or a side of roasted vegetables. Easy to prepare yet decadently delicious, it embodies the perfect balance between comfort and culinary elegance, making it ideal for a family meal or a special occasion.
How Do You Make This Chicken Meatloaf?
The chicken cordon bleu meatloaf is a delightful fusion of the classic cordon bleu and the comforting texture of a meatloaf. Moist, flavorful, and indulgent, it stands out for its simplicity and refined taste.
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, eggs, and a bit of cream to ensure a tender texture. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors. This mixture forms the foundation of your dish.
2. Add the Savory Filling
On a sheet of parchment paper, flatten the mixture into a rectangle. Evenly layer slices of smoked ham and melted cheese on top. Carefully roll the mixture into a compact loaf and seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
3. Bake to Perfection
Place the meatloaf in a greased baking dish and sprinkle it with breadcrumbs for a beautifully golden crust. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 40 minutes until the cheese melts and the exterior turns slightly crispy.
How Do You Make This Chicken Meatloaf? By following these simple steps, you’ll create a delicious dish, best served with a creamy mustard sauce and roasted vegetables.
Golden brown chicken cordon bleu
Ingredients
- 500 g ground chicken
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 60 ml heavy cream
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 150 g smoked ham
- 150 g swiss cheese, sliced
- 50 g breadcrumbs(for coating)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf BaseIn a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined to ensure a moist texture.
- Add the Savory FillingOn a sheet of parchment paper, flatten the chicken mixture into a rectangle. Evenly layer the ham and Swiss cheese on top. Carefully roll it into a compact loaf and seal the edges tightly.
- Coat and BakeGrease a baking dish with olive oil. Place the rolled meatloaf inside and sprinkle the top with additional breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Rest and ServeLet the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a creamy mustard sauce and roasted vegetables for a perfect meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ground Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred. However, chicken tends to keep the meatloaf more moist.
- Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is commonly used for its meltability and flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste profile.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can include finely chopped vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, into the meatloaf mixture. These can add moisture and extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance. You can assemble the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Sauce Pairing: Serve with a variety of sauces, such as creamy mustard, a rich brown gravy, or even a tangy barbecue sauce, to complement the richness of the meatloaf.
- Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest after baking for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
- Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
FAQ
What is special about cordon bleu?
What makes cordon bleu special is its elegant combination of flavors and textures, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious dish. Traditionally, cordon bleu refers to a breaded and fried dish made with veal or chicken, which is stuffed with ham and cheese—usually Swiss or Gruyère. The name “cordon bleu,” meaning “blue ribbon” in French, signifies the dish’s association with top-tier culinary excellence and craftsmanship.
The specialness of cordon bleu lies in its delicate balance of crispy and tender textures. The chicken or veal is pan-fried to achieve a golden, crispy exterior, while the melted cheese and savory ham inside create a rich, indulgent filling. The contrast between the crunchy coating and the creamy filling makes each bite a delightful experience.
Additionally, the versatility of cordon bleu adds to its charm. While the classic version uses veal or chicken, it can be adapted with different proteins, such as turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian variation using vegetables and plant-based cheese. This flexibility, combined with its refined presentation, has made cordon bleu a beloved dish at fine dining establishments and home kitchens alike.
What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?
The key ingredient that helps keep meatloaf from falling apart is binders, such as eggs and breadcrumbs. These ingredients play a crucial role in holding the meat mixture together and preventing it from crumbling during baking.
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the meat and other ingredients together while adding moisture.
Breadcrumbs (or other alternatives like oats or crushed crackers) absorb moisture and act as a structural element, preventing the meatloaf from being too dense or falling apart.
Additionally, moisture-rich ingredients like milk, broth, or cream can help keep the meatloaf moist and tender, further improving its structure. Proper mixing is also important, as over-mixing can cause the meatloaf to become tough, while under-mixing can lead to uneven binding.
Why is it called chicken cordon bleu?
The name chicken cordon bleu originates from the French term “cordon bleu,” which translates to “blue ribbon.” The term “cordon bleu” was historically associated with the highest culinary distinction in France, awarded to chefs of exceptional skill. Over time, “cordon bleu” became synonymous with dishes prepared in a refined, expert manner.
In the case of chicken cordon bleu, the dish typically consists of a chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried or baked. It became popular in the mid-20th century as a way to make a gourmet meal accessible at home, often replacing the traditional veal with chicken for a lighter option. The dish is named as such because it was considered a refined, luxurious meal, worthy of the prestigious “blue ribbon” designation in French cuisine.
What goes well with chicken cordon bleu?
Le chicken cordon bleu meatloaf est une version innovante du classique cordon bleu, offrant une texture tendre et savoureuse qui ravira vos papilles. Ce plat combine le poulet haché, du jambon délicatement fumé et du fromage fondant, le tout enveloppé dans une croûte dorée et croustillante. Un véritable délice qui transforme le traditionnel meatloaf en une expérience culinaire raffinée.
Mais What goes well with chicken cordon bleu ? Ce plat s’accompagne parfaitement de légumes rôtis, tels que des carottes, des pommes de terre et des haricots verts, qui apportent à la fois croquant et douceur. Une sauce crémeuse à la moutarde ou une sauce béchamel ajoute une touche d’onctuosité qui complète la richesse du fromage fondant et du jambon. Pour un côté plus frais, une simple salade verte avec une vinaigrette légère peut équilibrer la richesse du meatloaf.
Ce chicken cordon bleu meatloaf se prête aussi bien à un dîner en famille qu’à une occasion plus formelle. Il est non seulement délicieux, mais aussi facile à préparer, offrant ainsi une alternative savoureuse aux recettes classiques de viande hachée. À essayer absolument pour impressionner vos invités tout en apportant un peu de nouveauté à votre table.
conclusion
Le chicken cordon bleu meatloaf est une fusion savoureuse entre le traditionnel cordon bleu et la viande hachée. Ce plat réinvente le pain de viande classique, en ajoutant des couches de jambon et de fromage fondant, créant ainsi une expérience gustative riche et réconfortante. La viande de poulet hachée, souvent plus légère que le bœuf ou le porc, se marie parfaitement avec les ingrédients fondants qui se cachent à l’intérieur. La croûte dorée et croustillante en fait un plat à la fois élégant et appétissant.
Les saveurs subtiles du fromage suisse et du jambon fumé apportent une touche de raffinement à ce plat simple. Chaque bouchée révèle un équilibre parfait entre le croquant de l’enrobage et la douceur fondante du fromage. Ce chicken cordon bleu meatloaf se prête idéalement à un dîner en famille ou entre amis, où il saura séduire tous les palais.
En CONCLUSION GENERALE, ce plat incarne l’innovation culinaire tout en préservant les traditions. Il allie simplicité, gourmandise et originalité, offrant une alternative savoureuse aux classiques du pain de viande. À la fois facile à préparer et impressionnant à servir, il mérite une place de choix sur toutes les tables. Pour une autre recette délicieuse, essayez notre baked lemon dill salmon. Vous pouvez également nous suivre sur Facebook pour plus d’idées et d’inspiration culinaire.
