Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Meatloaf offers a lighter, leaner take on the traditional beef version without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Using ground chicken as the base, this recipe produces a moist and tender loaf seasoned with herbs, spices, and a touch of garlic. Topped with a tangy glaze, it delivers that familiar meatloaf satisfaction in a healthier way. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, chicken meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also versatile—you can keep it classic, make it spicy, or load it with vegetables for extra nutrition. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, looking for a family-friendly meal, or simply want to switch things up, this recipe is a delicious alternative that proves meatloaf can be both wholesome and indulgent.
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Chicken Meatloaf – A Healthier Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A lighter twist on the classic meatloaf, this chicken meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and topped with a tangy glaze for a comforting family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press into the loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 40 minutes, remove from oven, and spread remaining glaze on top.
- Return to oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground chicken – The star protein, lean yet flavorful, forming the base of the meatloaf.
Breadcrumbs – Bind the loaf together while keeping it moist and structured.
Eggs – Help hold the ingredients together and add richness.
Onion – Finely diced, adding sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the loaf with savory notes and enhances the seasoning.
Milk – Keeps the loaf tender and prevents it from drying out.
Ketchup – Used both inside the mixture for flavor and on top for the classic tangy glaze.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness of the ketchup.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture, which can make the loaf dense.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it in evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup with a splash of Worcestershire sauce to create a glaze. Spread this over the top of the loaf.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while baking requires 45–50 minutes. In total, you can expect the dish to be ready in about 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy version – Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Cheesy meatloaf – Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the loaf for gooey bites.
Vegetable boost – Fold in grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
BBQ glaze – Swap the ketchup topping with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Mediterranean twist – Season with oregano, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Asian-inspired – Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil in the mix, then glaze with teriyaki sauce.
Low-carb option – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Mini loaves – Bake the mixture in muffin tins for individual servings.
Turkey swap – Substitute ground turkey for chicken for a similar light option.
Stuffed loaf – Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach in the center for a surprise filling.
FAQs
Is chicken meatloaf healthier than beef meatloaf?
Yes, chicken is leaner and lower in fat, making it a lighter option.
How do I keep chicken meatloaf from drying out?
Adding milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs ensures moisture and tenderness.
Can I make chicken meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well with similar results.
What can I serve with chicken meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad make great sides.
Do I need a loaf pan?
No, you can shape the mixture into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze cooked chicken meatloaf?
Yes, freeze slices for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
What’s the best glaze for chicken meatloaf?
Classic ketchup works well, but BBQ sauce or teriyaki are tasty alternatives.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, replace breadcrumbs with a gluten-free option like oat flour or almond flour.
Conclusion
Chicken Meatloaf is a wholesome, flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish. With its tender texture, savory glaze, and versatile customizations, it makes a satisfying dinner that everyone can enjoy. Easy to prepare, healthier than beef versions, and adaptable to different flavor profiles, it is a recipe you’ll return to often. Whether served with traditional sides or made into individual loaves, Chicken Meatloaf proves that lighter comfort food can still be hearty, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.