Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf with Dijon Gravy

Introduction

When I first set out to make this Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf with Dijon Gravy, I was hoping to combine two of my favorite comfort foods into one dish. I wanted the tender, flavorful goodness of meatloaf with the rich, creamy sauce and the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu. The result was nothing short of amazing. The meatloaf itself was moist and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of chicken, Swiss cheese, and Parmesan. Then, the Dijon gravy elevated the entire dish, adding a rich and tangy depth of flavor. My family was thrilled with how it turned out, and it quickly became one of our go-to recipes for dinner. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy meatloaf or want to put a twist on a classic dish, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese

For the Dijon Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the meatloaf tough.
3. Add the cheese: Gently fold in the shredded Swiss cheese, being careful not to overmix. This will give the meatloaf a nice cheesy texture throughout.
4. Shape and bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it into an even layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Make the Dijon Gravy:

1. Prepare the roux: While the meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the gravy.
2. Add the broth and cream: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for 3-5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Serve:

1. Slice the meatloaf: Once the meatloaf has rested, slice it into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Drizzle with gravy: Plate the slices of meatloaf and drizzle with warm Dijon gravy.
3. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• With mashed potatoes: Pair this Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• With steamed vegetables: Serve alongside steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli for a healthy and balanced dinner.
• On a bed of rice: For a different twist, serve the meatloaf slices on a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
• In a sandwich: Use leftover meatloaf and gravy to make a delicious sandwich or open-faced sandwich with some extra cheese.
• With a salad: A simple side salad can balance the richness of the meatloaf and gravy, providing a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Use lean ground chicken: Lean ground chicken works best in this recipe as it ensures a lighter texture for the meatloaf while keeping it moist.
2. Don’t overmix the meatloaf: Overmixing the meatloaf can cause it to become dense. Mix the ingredients gently until they’re just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
3. Check the internal temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F or 74°C).
4. Make it ahead: The meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Customize the gravy: If you like a spicier gravy, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Dijon gravy for an extra kick.

Recipe Variations

• Add ham for a true Cordon Bleu flavor: For a true Cordon Bleu-inspired version, you can layer thin slices of ham in the middle of the meatloaf before baking. This will add a delicious savory component to the dish.
• Use ground turkey or beef: If you prefer a different type of meat, ground turkey or beef can easily be substituted for the chicken in this recipe.
• Make a low-fat version: To make this dish lower in fat, use ground turkey breast or lean ground chicken, and opt for a reduced-fat cream in the gravy.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free. Make sure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a glass of white wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken meatloaf and creamy Dijon gravy.
• Side of roasted potatoes: Roasted potatoes with herbs and garlic complement the meatloaf perfectly, offering both texture and flavor.
• Serve with a tangy salad: A tangy green salad with a mustard vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gravy and adds freshness to the meal.
• Crispy garlic bread: Garlic bread makes a delicious side to soak up the creamy Dijon gravy and adds a crunchy texture to the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Meatloaf: This Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf freezes well. Once baked and cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the gravy separately in an airtight container for the best texture. Reheat the meatloaf in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cheese in the meatloaf?
Yes, you can substitute the Swiss cheese with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, depending on your preference.

2. How can I make the meatloaf more flavorful?
Adding fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley can enhance the flavor of the meatloaf. You can also mix in sautéed onions or garlic for extra depth.

3. Can I make the gravy without heavy cream?
Yes, you can use milk or half-and-half as a substitute for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version of the gravy.

4. Can I bake the meatloaf without a loaf pan?
If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the meatloaf by hand and bake it on a baking sheet. Just make sure to form it into a compact shape.

5. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

7. How can I add more vegetables to the meatloaf?
You can finely chop vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers and mix them into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

8. Can I substitute the ground chicken with ground beef?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute for ground chicken. It will change the

flavor slightly but still provide a rich, savory base for the meatloaf.

9. How can I make the gravy spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Dijon gravy for an extra kick of heat.

10. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to fully thaw it before using it in the meatloaf mixture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu-Inspired Meatloaf with Dijon Gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, satisfying meal. The combination of ground chicken, Swiss cheese, and a creamy Dijon gravy makes this meatloaf stand out from the traditional version. The addition of fresh parsley and a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables rounds out the meal, making it both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on classic meatloaf or want to impress your guests with something unique, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

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