This chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! Made with ground chicken and packed with veggies, it’s a light and hearty meal everyone will enjoy.
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just mix, shape, and bake. I love serving it with mashed potatoes and a splash of gravy. Comfort food made simple! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main ingredient that makes the meatloaf leaner than traditional beef. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute ground turkey or even a mix of chicken and turkey. Avoid using ground breast alone as it can be too dry.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatloaf together. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats instead. I love using seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor!
Onion and Garlic: Finely chopping these enhances their flavors without overwhelming the dish. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder can be quicker alternatives, but they won’t have the same freshness.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness. If you don’t have any, swap it for fresh basil, or even spinach can work in a pinch. Dried herbs are fine too, though they’ll be less vibrant.
Eggs: They act as a binding agent. If you’re vegan or allergic, a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) can be used instead.
How Do I Get the Meatloaf to Stay Moist?
One common challenge with chicken meatloaf is keeping it moist since chicken can dry out quickly. Here are some tips to help you achieve a juicy loaf:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients—just combine until they’re all incorporated. This keeps it tender.
- Include wet ingredients like milk and eggs to add moisture. Adding grated veggies like zucchini or carrots can also boost moisture!
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps redistribute the juices, making it more flavorful and juicy.
Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 60 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. If you let it rest for another 10 minutes before slicing, it will help keep it juicy and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spatula, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. You can either shape it into a loaf directly or press it into the pan to form a nice shape. Make sure it’s even on the top for the best cooking results.
4. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until it’s well combined and smooth. Pour this mixture over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is beautifully glazed. This ensures that your meatloaf is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat!
6. Let it Rest:
Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your meatloaf stays moist when sliced.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Carefully slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. You can garnish it with fresh parsley if you like, and pair it with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy a delicious and comforting meal!
This chicken meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and topped with a sweet tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is an excellent substitute and will give you a similar lean texture. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may cook slightly faster than chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even fine cornmeal. Just ensure the consistency is similar to breadcrumbs for proper binding.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Definitely! Adding grated vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance flavor and moisture. Just be sure to squeeze out excess water from vegetables like zucchini before mixing to avoid a soggy meatloaf.
