Irresistible Chicken Meatloaf Recipe: Easy, Healthy Dinner Idea Recipe
Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a slice of perfectly baked meatloaf. This irresistible chicken meatloaf is a lighter take on the classic, packed with flavor and easy to prepare. It’s quickly become a favorite for family dinners, delivering juicy, savory satisfaction every time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- For glaze: 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional herbs: parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and milk. Mix gently to combine.
- Step 3: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly incorporated, but do not overmix.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If baking freeform, shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Step 5: Mix ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for the glaze, then spread evenly over the meatloaf’s top.
- Step 6: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips & Variations
- Don’t overmix the ingredients to avoid a dense meatloaf; stir gently just until combined.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking without drying out the meatloaf.
- Customize the glaze by adding brown sugar for sweetness or hot sauce for heat.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Add finely chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For a cheesy twist, mix in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese.
- Use almond milk or another non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The flavors deepen after a day, making leftovers even better!
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works beautifully as a substitute and offers a similar texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Be sure to add enough moisture with milk and ketchup, and don’t overbake—check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Irresistible Chicken Meatloaf Recipe: Easy, Healthy Dinner Idea Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This irresistible chicken meatloaf is a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, offering juicy, flavorful, and comforting slices perfect for family dinners. Made with simple ingredients like ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s quick to prepare and easily customizable to suit different dietary needs.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 pound (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (or non-dairy alternative like almond milk)
- 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or thyme
Glaze
- 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix until evenly incorporated but do not overmix.
- Shape in Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Alternatively, shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet if you don’t have a loaf pan.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup with Worcestershire sauce. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in moist slices.
- Optional Covering: If meatloaf browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and prevent drying out.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking for juicier slices.
- Customize the glaze with brown sugar or hot sauce for extra sweetness or spice.
- For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini boosts nutrition and moisture.
- Try adding shredded cheese in the middle of the loaf for a cheesy surprise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken meatloaf, easy dinner, healthy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, family-friendly dinner, ground chicken recipe
