Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs. ground chicken
• 1 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
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 6 slices Virginia chicken ham
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

Creamy Dijon Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup skim or 1% milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, mayonnaise, plain bread crumbs, minced onion, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and ground black pepper.
3. Assemble the Meatloaf:
   1. In a loaf pan, spread half of the chicken mixture evenly on the bottom.
   2. Layer the chicken ham slices on top of the chicken mixture, followed by the Swiss cheese slices.
   3. Cover with the remaining chicken mixture, ensuring the ham and cheese are fully enclosed.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
   1. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
   2. After 25 minutes, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top.
   3. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the meatloaf is cooked through.
5. Prepare the Creamy Dijon Gravy:
   1. While the meatloaf is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling and slightly golden.
   3. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
   5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly grated nutmeg, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
   6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf slices topped with the creamy Dijon gravy.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf, perfect for any dinner occasion!