This Chicken Meatloaf is a twist on the classic dish, made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and a mix of tasty seasonings. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any dinner!
Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to make and brings the whole family together? I like to serve it with some mashed potatoes on the side—comfort food heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf. If you prefer a richer flavor, ground turkey or lean ground beef is a good substitute. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly because of the differences in fat content.
Breadcrumbs: I like using seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain breadcrumbs work fine too. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes!
Onion: Yellow or white onions are perfect for their sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onion, feel free to omit it or use onion powder for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a lovely aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, using about a quarter teaspoon per clove.
Ketchup: This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meatloaf moist. If you want something different, consider using BBQ sauce or a tangy tomato sauce instead.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Meatloaf Stays Moist?
The key to a juicy meatloaf is balancing your wet and dry ingredients. Ground chicken is leaner than beef, making it more prone to dryness. Here’s how to keep it moist:
- Make sure to add enough wet ingredients like milk and egg. They help bind everything while adding moisture.
- Mix the meat just until everything is combined; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Adding a layer of ketchup on top not only adds flavor but locks in moisture as it cooks.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking. Letting it rest allows juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy.
Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Overall, you can expect to spend around an hour and a half enjoying this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, take a loaf pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper so that your meatloaf comes out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together well—make sure it’s evenly combined!
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it). This mixture helps to bind everything and adds delicious flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the chicken mixture. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s important for keeping the meatloaf nice and tender!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form a compact loaf. This will help it hold its shape while baking.
6. Add Ketchup on Top:
Spread a layer of ketchup on top of the loaf. This adds a tasty glaze that makes the meatloaf even more flavorful!
7. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You want it to be cooked through, so check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice. After resting, slice it up and serve!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some additional fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Serve your chicken meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans, or your favorite sides for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit leaner, so you may need to adjust your cooking time slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a breadcrumb alternative, crushed oat flakes or even ground almonds can work well. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes!
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it! Just wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can! Feel free to mix in finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure the total amount of mix doesn’t exceed the original ingredient measurements.
