Chicken Meatloaf: 5 Savory Secrets for Pure Delight

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 29, 2025

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about chicken meatloaf! It’s a dish that brings together simplicity and loads of flavor in the most fabulous way. I’m talking about a savory, juicy meatloaf that’s not just easy to whip up, but also a family favorite at my house. I love how versatile it is—you can serve it with mashed potatoes, throw it on a sandwich, or even enjoy it cold the next day. Plus, using ground chicken makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Seriously, there’s something special about the aroma of it baking in the oven that just makes my heart sing. It takes me back to cozy dinners with my loved ones, gathered around the table. Trust me, once you try this chicken meatloaf, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!

chicken meatloaf - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chicken meatloaf. I promise, it’s a straightforward list, and every ingredient plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor!

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer using plain, but you can use seasoned for an extra kick!)
1/2 cup onion, diced (make sure to chop them nice and small for even flavor)
1/4 cup milk (any kind works, but I usually go for 2% for creaminess)
1 large egg (this helps bind everything together perfectly)
2 tablespoons ketchup (plus a little extra for glazing on top)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1 teaspoon salt (this brings out all the flavors)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to your liking)
1/4 teaspoon thyme (adds a lovely herby touch)

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a meatloaf that’s not just nutritious but absolutely bursting with flavor! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Chicken Meatloaf

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! You want to set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps ensure your chicken meatloaf cooks evenly all the way through. Nothing worse than a meatloaf that’s overdone on the outside and raw in the center! So, go ahead and turn that dial while you prep the rest of your ingredients.

Combine Ingredients

Now, grab a large mixing bowl because it’s time to bring everything together. Start by adding in the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, diced onion, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and thyme. I like to use my hands for this part because you can really feel when everything is well combined. Just make sure your hands are clean! Mix until everything is incorporated but don’t overdo it; we want a tender meatloaf, not a dense brick!

Shape the Meatloaf

Once everything is nicely mixed, it’s time to transfer the mixture into a loaf pan. I like to use a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan, but you can also shape it freeform on a baking sheet if you’re feeling adventurous! Just press it down gently into the pan and shape it into a nice loaf. You want it to be compact but still fluffy. Make sure it’s even on the top, so it bakes perfectly!

Glaze and Bake

Now for the fun part: the glaze! Grab that extra ketchup and spread a thin layer over the top of your meatloaf. This gives it a lovely caramelized finish as it bakes. Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is beautifully browned on top. Yum!

Resting and Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to slice right away! Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your meatloaf moist and flavorful. After the resting period, slice it up with a sharp knife. Serve it warm, maybe with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad on the side. Trust me, this chicken meatloaf is going to wow your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this chicken meatloaf comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Option: Made with ground chicken, this meatloaf is lower in fat compared to traditional beef versions, so you can indulge without the guilt!
Flavorful and Savory: The combination of spices, garlic, and a touch of ketchup creates a deliciously savory dish that your whole family will love.
Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, slice it for sandwiches, or enjoy it cold—this meatloaf is just as tasty in any form!
Perfect for Leftovers: This chicken meatloaf keeps well in the fridge, making it a great meal prep option for lunches throughout the week.

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chicken meatloaf turns out perfect every time! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference.

Don’t Skip the Resting Time: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the meatloaf rest for those 10 minutes truly helps keep it juicy. It allows the flavors to settle and the moisture to redistribute, making every slice delicious.
Watch Your Mixing: When combining the ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, which is not what we want. Just mix until everything is evenly combined, and you’re golden!
Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) in the center. If you don’t have one, check that juices run clear and the meatloaf is firm to the touch.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the seasonings. If you love a bit more garlic or some heat, add it! This is your meatloaf, after all.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Want to jazz it up? Try adding in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots, or even some cheese! Just make sure to keep the overall consistency in mind.
Use a Loaf Pan for Uniformity: While freeform meatloafs are fun, using a loaf pan helps the meatloaf maintain its shape and ensures even cooking. Plus, it looks great when you slice it!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a chicken meatloaf that’s not only delicious but also a surefire hit at your dinner table!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a slice of this delicious chicken meatloaf. Remember, these values can vary a bit based on specific brands or ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re working with.

Calories: 220
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g

This chicken meatloaf is not only a comforting meal but also packs a punch in terms of protein while keeping the fats in check. Perfect for a hearty dinner without the guilt! Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something nutritious and satisfying!

FAQ Section

Got questions about chicken meatloaf? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best answers to help you navigate your meatloaf-making adventure.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a similar texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s perfect for reheating for a quick meal!
Can I freeze chicken meatloaf?
Yes, you can! Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat chicken meatloaf?
I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This keeps it moist and prevents it from drying out. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it!
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even spinach can be delicious add-ins. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well into the mixture.
What should I serve with chicken meatloaf?
You can’t go wrong with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! It’s also great on a sandwich with some fresh lettuce and tomato. Get creative!

Hopefully, these tips clear up any questions you might have. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve got some delicious chicken meatloaf on your hands, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers! Proper storage is key to keeping your meatloaf fresh and flavorful for days to come.

First, let the meatloaf cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from becoming soggy. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed well to avoid any air getting in. You can store your chicken meatloaf in the refrigerator for up to three days.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, freezing is a fantastic option! Just wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Reheating your chicken meatloaf is where the magic happens! To keep it moist and delicious, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place your meatloaf in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and heat it for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps it maintain its juicy flavor, just like when it was first baked!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Just slice the meatloaf and place the pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat in short intervals, around 1-2 minutes, checking after each minute until it’s warmed to your liking. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a rubbery texture!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken meatloaf again and again without losing any of that delightful flavor!