Ground Chicken Meatloaf: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Meatloaf is a comfort food favorite, but if you’re looking for a lighter and healthier alternative, ground chicken meatloaf is the perfect choice. This recipe delivers the same juicy, flavorful, and satisfying experience as traditional meatloaf but with leaner protein and a tender texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or trying something new, this easy ground chicken meatloaf will quickly become a go-to recipe. With a savory mix of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs, plus a sweet and tangy glaze, this dish is packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Chicken Meatloaf

If you think chicken meatloaf might be dry or bland, think again! This version is:

• Juicy and Tender – The addition of milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs keeps the meatloaf moist.
• Rich in Flavor – Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan, and fresh parsley enhance the taste.
• Healthier Than Beef Meatloaf – Ground chicken is lean and packed with protein.
• Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal prep make it a great weeknight meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well for easy lunches and dinners.

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s everything you need to make this juicy and flavorful meatloaf:

Meatloaf Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground chicken	2 pounds (900 g)
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup
Dried breadcrumbs	½ cup
Eggs	2
Small onion, finely chopped	1
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Milk	2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, chopped	¼ cup
Dried oregano	1 teaspoon
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon

For the Glaze

Ingredient	Quantity
Ketchup	½ cup
Brown sugar	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Onion powder	½ teaspoon
Salt	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Chicken Meatloaf

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, parsley, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

• Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
• If using a loaf pan, press the mixture evenly into the pan.

4. Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
• Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

• Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top.
• Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
• Serve warm with your favorite sides!

Best Sides to Serve with Ground Chicken Meatloaf

This flavor-packed meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy and classic pairing.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add freshness.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory meatloaf.
• Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb alternative to regular rice.
• Garden Salad – A crisp, refreshing side to balance the richness.

Tips for the Perfect Ground Chicken Meatloaf

1. Keep It Moist

• Don’t skip the milk—it helps maintain moisture.
• Avoid overbaking; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

2. Let It Rest Before Slicing

Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking ensures that the juices redistribute and don’t leak out when sliced.

3. Customize Your Seasonings

• Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Mix in grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients.

4. Try a Different Cheese

While Parmesan adds a rich umami flavor, you can also use:

• Cheddar for a sharper taste.
• Mozzarella for a melty, gooey center.

5. Make Mini Meatloaves

Instead of a large loaf, shape the mixture into smaller individual loaves or muffin-sized portions for quicker cooking.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Oven: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals to prevent drying out.
• Skillet: Warm on low heat with a splash of water to retain moisture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	27g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and has a similar texture.

2. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, panko, almond flour, or rolled oats as alternatives.

3. How do I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

4. Can I make this meatloaf dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk.

5. What if my meatloaf is too dry?

Adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of olive oil can help keep the meatloaf moist.

6. Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts: Make This Ground Chicken Meatloaf Tonight!

This ground chicken meatloaf is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers juicy, cheesy, and savory goodness every time.

Try it tonight and discover your new favorite meatloaf!

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