This Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Made with ground chicken, herbs, and a few veggies, it’s moist, flavorful, and easy to whip up.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal! I love pairing it with mashed potatoes and a side of green beans—it’s like a hug in dinner form! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf. If you prefer another meat, ground turkey works great too. For a richer flavor, you can mix in some ground pork.
Breadcrumbs: I often use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed corn flakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Bell Pepper & Onion: These veggies add moisture and sweetness. You can substitute red or yellow bell pepper for a slightly different taste, or even throw in some grated carrots for extra nutrition!
Ketchup: This is used for the glaze on top. If you prefer, you can use BBQ sauce or even a mixture of tomato sauce and brown sugar as a substitute.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is all about balancing the ingredients and cooking it just right. Here are some tips:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Add Milk: Including milk or another liquid helps keep things moist. You can use chicken broth for even more flavor.
- Rest Before Cutting: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
With these tips, your chicken meatloaf will turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 50-60 minutes baking it. Afterward, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready when your meatloaf is assembled. If you prefer, grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Mixing the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped green bell pepper, onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep your meatloaf nice and tender!
3. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly, and shape it into a loaf shape. This will help it cook evenly.
4. Making the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard (if you’re using it). Spread this yummy glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf. It will caramelize beautifully while baking!
5. Baking the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You want it to be cooked through, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
6. Resting and Serving:
Once it’s done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice. Garnish with some extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy!
Slice your chicken meatloaf and serve it warm with some mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or your favorite sides. This dish is flavorful and comforting—perfect for sharing with family!
Now you have a tasty chicken meatloaf recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and offers a similar flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since turkey can sometimes be a bit leaner.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
No problem! You can easily swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check your Worcestershire sauce for gluten content, as some brands may contain it.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?
Yes, chicken meatloaf freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Meatloaf?
Chicken meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa for a balanced meal!
