This chicken meatloaf is a yummy twist on the classic dish! It’s made with lean ground chicken, tasty herbs, and spices that keep it juicy and full of flavor.
I love how easy it is to make—just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or veggies. Leftovers? Even better the next day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf. I like using lean ground chicken to keep it healthier. If you are looking for a richer flavor, try ground turkey or even ground beef as substitutes!
Breadcrumbs: I stick with plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs, which create a great texture. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a substitute.
Onion and Garlic: These add delicious flavor. I usually use yellow onion for its sweetness. You could swap onions with shallots if you want something milder. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: It gives a nice sharp flavor! If you want to skip it or need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great alternative.
Ketchup: For the glaze, I prefer classic ketchup, but you could use BBQ sauce for a smokier taste. If you’re watching sugar, try a no-sugar ketchup.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is key! Here are some tips:
- Use lean ground meat to avoid excessive grease, but not too lean or it can dry out. Ground chicken is a good choice.
- Add moisture with ingredients like egg and milk. Don’t skip them!
- Mix gently. Overmixing will make the meatloaf dense and dry. Just combine until it’s all mixed.
- Let it rest after baking. This step helps keep the juices inside and makes slicing easier.
How to Make Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 50-60 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking. So, total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy a delicious slice of this meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil. If you prefer, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, milk, the large egg, optional Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until just combined—be careful not to overwork it!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it evenly with your hands, making sure to smooth out the top.
4. Make the Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze. Mix it until smooth. Spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf evenly.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check that it’s cooked through using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C), and the glaze should be caramelized and bubbling.
6. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
7. Slice and Serve:
Carefully slice the meatloaf and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite dish!
Enjoy your moist and flavorful chicken meatloaf! Every bite is packed with flavor! 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and works similarly in terms of flavor and texture. Just ensure it’s cooked to the right internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meat mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a little more cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy!
