Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion and garlic mixture, egg, 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, half of the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the diced ham and two-thirds of the shredded Swiss cheese (about 1 1/3 cups).
- Gently mix with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix. Turn the mixture out onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into an oval loaf, roughly 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
- Sprinkle the remaining one-third of Swiss cheese (about 2/3 cup) over the top of the loaf.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, the melted butter, and the remaining chopped parsley. Toss until the panko is evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese-topped meatloaf, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist result.
Notes
For the best results, avoid overmixing the meat mixture to ensure a tender texture. Grating your own cheese from a block is highly recommended, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Don't skip the 10-minute resting period; it's crucial for a juicy meatloaf. For variations, consider adding sautéed mushrooms for umami or a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus or creamy mashed potatoes.
