In my house, this chicken meatloaf is a regular request for dinner. My kids absolutely love it, and it gets devoured every single time! It’s one of those meals that I can always count on to be a hit at the dinner table, and I love that it’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf or just need a quick, family-friendly dinner idea, this recipe has got you covered.
Why Choose Chicken Meatloaf?
Chicken is a leaner protein compared to beef, making this dish a great option if you're looking for something lighter yet still filling. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters!
This chicken meatloaf recipe typically serves about 4-6 people depending on portion sizes. If you have larger eaters or want leftovers, it might serve closer to 4. If you're serving it with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, it can stretch further to feed 6.
Here’s the breakdown for prep and total time:
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Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
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Total Time: 55-60 minutes (including baking time)
Ingredients:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup finely diced onion
1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional, for added moisture and nutrition)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 cup milk (to keep it extra moist)
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Ketchup and Soy Sauce Topping:
Ingredients:
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a sweeter glaze)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Sauté the Onions – Heat a small pan over medium heat and sauté the diced onions in a little olive oil until they turn translucent (about 3-4 minutes). This step enhances the flavor and ensures they blend smoothly into the meatloaf.
Mix the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, shredded carrots, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and all the seasonings. Add the sautéed onions and mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash more milk.
Shape the Meatloaf – Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it down gently to form an even shape.
Instructions for Topping:
Combine the Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar (if using), Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
Add the Topping – After shaping the meatloaf in the pan and before baking, spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest & Serve – Let the meatloaf rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions:
This chicken meatloaf pairs perfectly with:
Mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal
Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
A simple side salad for a lighter option
Rice or quinoa for an easy meal prep combo
Storage & Reheating:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze slices in individual portions for easy reheating.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Final Thoughts:
Chicken meatloaf is a delicious, healthier alternative to the traditional version. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out for you!
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