Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds finely ground chicken meat; 1 cup dry breadcrumb mixture, plain or seasoned; 2 whole large eggs; ½ cup whole milk or preferred dairy; 1 small yellow onion, minced finely; 2 garlic cloves, crushed or minced; 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard; 1 teaspoon coarse salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; 6 slices Swiss cheese or similar melty cheese such as provolone or mozzarella; 6 thinly sliced pieces of deli-style ham; ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

The Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe is a cozy, comforting dish that transforms the classic chicken cordon bleu into a stunning, sliceable loaf. It's perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests without fussing over fancy plating. I love how it combines melty cheese and savory ham right inside tender ground chicken, delivering layers of flavor with every bite.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe - Recipe Image — Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf, chicken cordon bleu baked dish, easy chicken loaf recipe, cheesy ham chicken bake, stuffed chicken breast roll

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Why This Recipe Works
Ingredient Game Plan
How to Cook Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe
Pro Moves I Swear By
Serve It Up
Make-Ahead & Storage
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Complete Recipe

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Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe hits the perfect balance between rich, melty filling and a tender, seasoned meat exterior. It's easy enough for a weeknight but looks polished enough for company.

Consistent Texture: Using finely ground chicken mixed evenly with breadcrumbs keeps every slice moist yet firm.
Deep, Balanced Flavor: A blend of mustard, paprika, and fresh aromatics brings depth that complements the ham and cheese layers.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have all these staples in your kitchen, making it straightforward and budget-friendly.
Fast Prep, Big Payoff: Mixing and layering takes about 15 minutes, then let the oven handle the rest while you relax or prep sides.

Ingredient Game Plan

Choosing the right components is key for this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe. Freshness and quality elevate those cheesy, savory layers inside while ensuring the chicken base stays juicy.

Ground chicken: Go for fresh, finely ground chicken breast or thigh for the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned dry breadcrumbs both work; seasoned add a subtle extra punch.
Swiss cheese: Classic for that nutty melt, but provolone or mozzarella are fantastic if you want something milder and gooier.
Deli ham: Thin slices, ideally not too thick or fatty, so they layer smoothly without overpowering.
Mustard: Dijon adds a gentle tang that harmonizes all the flavors beautifully.

Quick Note: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.

How to Cook Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe

Step 1 - Prep & Season

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing your loaf pan or lining it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, finely minced onion, crushed garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried parsley. Mix gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined-don't overwork it, or the chicken might get tough later. The mixture should feel soft and hold together well when pressed.

Step 2 - Build Flavor

Press half of the chicken mixture evenly into the loaf pan's base. Then carefully arrange the ham slices, ensuring full coverage without overlapping edges too thickly. Next, lay your cheese slices over the ham; this creates that luscious, gooey core everyone loves. Finally, gently spread the remaining chicken mixture over the top, sealing the sides so no filling leaks out while baking. You'll notice how this layered technique builds a harmonious flavor profile with every bite.

Step 3 - Finish for Best Texture

Bake the loaf for 45 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). You'll see the edges turn golden, and a toasty aroma will fill the kitchen. If you're using the optional topping, mix Dijon mustard with mayonnaise and spread it over the loaf during the last 5 minutes of baking. Top with shredded Swiss cheese and pop it back in just until the cheese melts and browns nicely. Let the loaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to let the juices settle-this makes cutting cleaner and the texture silkier.

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Pro Moves I Swear By

I've learned that the key to this Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe is paying attention to texture and internal temperature. A few tricks make all the difference between a dry mess and a juicy, satisfying loaf.

Doneness Cue: The golden-brown edges and a thermometer reading of 165°F mean you're right on target - no guesswork needed.
Temperature Trick: Let the loaf rest 10 minutes after baking; the residual heat finishes cooking and helps the juices redistribute.
Make-Ahead Move: This loaf tastes great chilled or room temperature too - prepare a day ahead, wrap tightly, and reheat gently.
Skip This Pitfall: Avoid overmixing the meat; it can toughen the texture. Mix just until ingredients combine.

Serve It Up

Finishing Touches

I like to brush the loaf with the tangy Dijon-mayo blend just before the final cheese topping-it gives a subtle zing and beautiful golden color. The melty Swiss then adds a rich, nutty finish that perfectly complements the savory ham and seasoned chicken base. It's that extra layer that turns this dish from simple to memorable.

Great Pairings

Traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables bring warmth and balance. For lighter options, a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans add fresh texture contrast. I personally love pairing this loaf with roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a drizzle of balsamic-it's a lovely flavor match.

Easy Plating Wins

Slice the loaf into thick, even pieces to showcase the beautiful layers inside. Serve on a warm platter with the sides arranged around it. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for a splash of color and brightness. This setup is simple but always feels special-great for weeknight dinners or a casual dinner party.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. It's best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to keep the chicken tender and the cheese creamy. You'll notice that the loaf holds its texture well, making for satisfying next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezer Notes

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the fully cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight, ensuring a gentle defrost that preserves flavor and texture.

Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe Without Drying Out

For reheating, the oven or air fryer is your best bet-set to 325°F and heat slices for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying. If using a microwave, add a small splash of water on a plate's edge and cover loosely to hold in moisture but watch carefully to avoid rubberiness. A gentle touch keeps the loaf succulent and tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken for this recipe?

You can, but grinding the chicken yourself or buying pre-ground gives the best texture for the loaf. Using whole breast fillets might make layering tricky and the texture less uniform.

What if I don't have Dijon mustard?

A mild yellow mustard or a small splash of prepared horseradish can work as substitutes, although Dijon adds that perfect tang and depth I recommend for this recipe.

How do I know when the loaf is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer-165°F internal temperature means it's perfectly cooked and safe to eat, ensuring juicy but fully set meat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap the dry breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts to keep the texture consistent without gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Roll Loaf Recipe quickly becomes a favorite because it's so hands-off yet yields a dish bursting with classic flavors. I love how adaptable it is-you can tweak cheeses, swap sides, or make ahead for busy nights. Give it a go, and I bet it'll become a go-to for your cozy dinners or special occasions alike.

Complete Recipe