This chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic dish! Made with ground chicken, vegetables, and a mix of herbs, it’s juicy and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to whip up!
I love how this meatloaf stays moist without being heavy. It’s perfect with a side of mashed potatoes. Trust me, there’s a good chance you’ll want to have seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf! Ground chicken is leaner than beef, making it a healthier choice. If you want a richer flavor, you could use ground turkey as a substitute.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for its light and crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs work too! If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Milk: Milk keeps the meatloaf moist. If you’re lactose intolerant, any plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, will do just fine!
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add great flavor. If you don’t have fresh ones, you can use garlic powder and onion powder instead, but fresh is always best for the taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. If you don’t have it, you could use dried parsley, but halve the amount since dried is more concentrated.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
To ensure your chicken meatloaf stays moist and flavorful, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Let breadcrumbs soak in milk — this helps keep moisture locked in.
- Mix ingredients gently; overmixing can make your meatloaf tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Using an egg binds everything and adds moisture, so don’t skip it!
- Make sure to check the internal temperature; 165°F (74°C) is crucial for safety without drying it out.
Resting the meatloaf for 10 minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute, making each slice taste wonderful!
Delicious Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for slight heat)
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and about 50-60 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delightful chicken meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make for easy removal later on.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk and let them soak for about 5 minutes. This step will help keep your meatloaf moist and tender.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything gently until it’s just mixed; try not to overmix.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a compact loaf, smoothing the top for even cooking.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Mix well, then spread this delicious glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze has that lovely caramelized look.
7. Serve:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute. Slice it up and serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes and green beans.
Enjoy your juicy and herb-packed chicken meatloaf! It’s comfort food at its best! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well. It will give you a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm individual slices in the microwave or put it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the baked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa. Just ensure that the texture is suitable to bind the meatloaf while maintaining moisture.
