This Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty way to enjoy a classic dish with a twist. Made with ground chicken, it’s juicy and full of flavor, plus it’s easy to whip up!
I love serving it with some mashed potatoes and green beans. You can sneak in some veggies right into the meatloaf, and nobody will notice! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! Ground chicken is lean and gives a lighter taste to meatloaf. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, turkey or even lean beef can be a great swap.
Bread Crumbs: I usually go for plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. If gluten-free is your thing, crushed gluten-free crackers work well too!
Milk: I prefer whole milk for creaminess, but any milk (like almond or oat milk) can be used if you’re dairy-free. Just remember, it helps keep the meat moist.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley really brightens up the dish. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried versions are fine to use. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so you’ll need less.
Ketchup: This not only adds moisture but a bit of sweetness. You can replace it with BBQ sauce if you like a smoky twist, or use tomato sauce for a milder flavor.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist?
One of the biggest challenges in making chicken meatloaf is keeping it juicy. Here are some helpful tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk, this helps retain moisture throughout the cooking process.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; just blend until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
- Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist.
- Using a thermometer can be a lifesaver. Make sure to cook until 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
How to Make Delicious Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For Greasing:
- Olive oil or cooking spray
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 60 minutes to bake. You’ll want to set aside a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including resting time before slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s hot and ready to bake your meatloaf. Grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for a few minutes until they absorb the liquid. This step will help keep your meatloaf moist and flavorful!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
To the breadcrumb mixture, add the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, the egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep your meatloaf nice and tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared loaf pan or onto the baking sheet. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just keep it in a loaf shape!
5. Add the Glaze:
Spread a thin, even layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This will create a tasty glaze while it bakes.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), and the top should be nicely browned.
7. Rest Before Slicing:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy when you slice it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme if you like. Serve your Chicken Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides for a comforting meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will keep the dish light. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than chicken, so be sure to not overcook it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes, definitely! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to sneak in some veggies. Just make sure they are chopped small enough so they cook through and blend well with the meat.
What Can I Use as a Topping Instead of Ketchup?
If you’re not a fan of ketchup, you can use BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor, or even a mix of mustard and honey for a different twist. Just be sure to spread a thin layer for that perfect glaze!
