Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs ground chicken

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

6 slices Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)

6 slices ham (thinly sliced)

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray.

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Meatloaf:

Press half of the chicken mixture into the bottom of the loaf pan.

Layer the ham slices evenly over the chicken, followed by the Swiss cheese slices.

Spread the Dijon mustard over the cheese.

If using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the mustard layer.

Top with the remaining chicken mixture, pressing down firmly to enclose the filling.

Bake:

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Optional Step for Extra Creaminess:

If you want an extra creamy finish, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan and pour it over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serve:

Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy center!