This chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with juicy chicken and veggies, making it a healthier option that’s still super satisfying!
Making meatloaf always makes me feel like a home chef superstar. Plus, the leftovers are great for sandwiches the next day. Who wouldn’t love that?
I enjoy serving this meatloaf with some mashed potatoes and green beans. It’s so easy to prepare, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! You can use ground turkey if you prefer. Both work well and keep the meatloaf lighter. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for ground chicken breast.
Onion: I like using small onions for their sweetness. If you’re out of fresh onions, you could use onion powder as a substitute, about a tablespoon should do the trick!
Breadcrumbs: These help give the meatloaf structure. If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats as a substitute. Alternatively, you can also use crushed crackers or fine cornmeal.
Ketchup: The topping adds great flavor. You can swap it out for BBQ sauce or a homemade version with tomato paste and vinegar. If you’re watching sugar, consider using a low-sugar ketchup.
Fresh Herbs: I love adding parsley for freshness. You can swap it with basil or cilantro, based on your preference. If you have dried herbs, they can work too—just use about a third of the amount.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your chicken meatloaf moist is key to a delicious result! Here are some tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk. This helps them absorb moisture and keeps the meatloaf from being dry.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture! Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Adding a little Worcestershire sauce is a great way to infuse flavor and moisture into your meatloaf.
- Cover your meatloaf with foil for the first half of baking. This helps trap moisture and keeps it juicy.
With these tips, you’ll have a tasty, tender chicken meatloaf every time!
How to Make Tasty Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for topping)
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken meatloaf requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 55-65 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it rest for another 5-10 minutes before slicing. So, you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal ready in about 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, take your breadcrumbs and soak them in milk. Set this aside for a few minutes so the breadcrumbs can soften. This step really helps to keep your meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, the soaked breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, or you could end up with a tough meatloaf!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the chicken mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Press the mixture down evenly to shape it into a loaf. This helps it hold its shape while baking.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Once combined, spread this sauce over the top of your meatloaf evenly. This gives it a sweet and tangy glaze that adds awesome flavor!
6. Bake:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the glaze has caramelized beautifully.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. If you like, garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley for a pop of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes and steamed veggies make a perfect pair!
Your delicious and moist chicken meatloaf is ready to be enjoyed! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a similar texture and flavor. Just ensure it’s ground turkey breast or a mix with dark meat for the best moisture balance.
How Do I Prevent the Meatloaf from Drying Out?
To keep your meatloaf moist, soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the mix. Also, avoid overmixing the ingredients, and consider covering the meatloaf with foil for the first half of the baking to trap moisture.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just shape it and add the glaze before baking the next day. This makes weeknight cooking super convenient!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Enjoy it as a sandwich too!
