Delicious Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

A waft of savory goodness fills the air as the chicken meatloaf bakes in the oven. The aroma dances around your kitchen like a TikTok influencer showing off their latest dance moves, making you wonder how something so simple can smell so divine. Picture yourself slicing into that golden-brown exterior to reveal the tender, juicy interior—it’s practically calling your name.

As you take that first bite, the flavors burst in your mouth like fireworks on Independence Day. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or a potluck where you want all the compliments (and maybe even a few secret recipe requests) to come your way. So let’s not waste another minute; grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This chicken meatloaf is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
  • Its flavor profile combines herbs and spices for an irresistible taste
  • Visually appealing with its golden crust, it looks fantastic on any dinner table
  • You can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs

One time, I made this chicken meatloaf for my friends’ potluck party, and let me tell you—the empty plate spoke volumes about its deliciousness.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Chicken: Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
  • Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together; I recommend using fresh breadcrumbs for better texture.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness; chop finely to maximize flavor.
  • Eggs: Essential for binding ingredients; use large eggs for best results.
  • Ketchup: A must-have topping that adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to get creative with flavors.
  • Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness; sautéing it first enhances its flavor.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; skip the powdered stuff if you can!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors; don’t be shy with them!

For the Sauce:

  • Brown Sugar: Balances out acidity in ketchup; it gives the glaze a lovely caramelized finish.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce; just a spoonful goes a long way!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish or loaf pan and grease it lightly with cooking spray.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic.

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, parsley, eggs, salt, pepper, ketchup, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Shape Your Loaf: Transfer the mixture into your greased loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix remaining ketchup with Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake Away: Place in preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest before slicing.

And there you have it—your very own homemade chicken meatloaf! It’s moist on the inside with that crispy topping we all adore. Serve it up with some mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

You Must Know

  • Chicken meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic, offering a lighter yet flavorful option
  • The aroma of herbs and spices baking will make your kitchen feel like a cozy diner
  • Pair it with some mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort food bliss

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, then mix your ingredients while the oven warms up. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, place it on a baking sheet, and pop it in the oven for about 45 minutes to an hour until perfectly cooked.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for oats or add grated cheese for creaminess. Toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Experimenting will give your chicken meatloaf a personal flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about one minute or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve perfect moisture, avoid overmixing your chicken meatloaf; this keeps it tender
  • Always let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness
  • Using a thermometer ensures it’s cooked to 165°F without drying out!

Sharing my first chicken meatloaf experience brings back memories of my family raving about how moist and flavorful it was! They kept asking for seconds, which made me feel like a culinary rockstar!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative while keeping flavors intact.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safety.

What sides pair well with chicken meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully.

Print
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Chicken Meatloaf


  • Author: Doorecipes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Enjoy a juicy Chicken Meatloaf that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This dish combines savory flavors with a delightful texture that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground chicken
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for glazing)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, eggs, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix well.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the greased pan and top with a glaze made from ketchup mixed with Dijon mustard.
  5. Bake for about 1 hour or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Let rest before slicing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in grated cheese or chopped vegetables like bell peppers. - To keep the meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and let it rest before slicing.

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