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The Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe – Moist & Delicious!
Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food, but traditional recipes often use beef or pork. If you’re looking for a healthier, leaner, and equally delicious alternative, this chicken meatloaf recipe is perfect! This dish is easy to prepare and packed with protein, made with ground chicken, a blend of seasonings, and a few secret ingredients to keep it moist.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔️ How to make juicy and flavorful chicken meatloaf
✔️ The best cooking temperature for a perfect result
✔️ Why milk is added to meatloaf recipes
✔️ How to keep ground chicken from drying out
Let’s get started with the perfect chicken meatloaf recipe that your family will love!
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Meatloaf
The key to a moist and flavorful chicken meatloaf is using the right combination of ingredients. Ground chicken is naturally lean, so adding moisture-enhancing ingredients is crucial.
1. Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the best chicken meatloaf:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken (1 lb) | The main protein, lean and healthy |
| Breadcrumbs (½ cup, panko or Italian-style) | Helps bind the meat and retain moisture |
| Milk (¼ cup) | Softens the breadcrumbs, making the meatloaf tender |
| Egg (1 large) | Helps hold the meatloaf together |
| Onion (1 small, finely diced) | Adds natural sweetness and moisture |
| Garlic (2 cloves, minced) | Enhances the flavor |
| Ketchup (¼ cup, plus extra for topping) | Provides a tangy, slightly sweet glaze |
| Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp) | Adds a savory depth to the meatloaf |
| Salt (1 tsp) & Black pepper (½ tsp) | Enhances flavor |
| Italian seasoning (1 tsp) | Adds a herby, aromatic touch |
| Paprika (½ tsp) | Provides subtle warmth and color |
2. Optional Additions for Extra Moisture
For an even juicier meatloaf, consider adding:
✔️ ½ cup shredded zucchini (adds moisture without affecting taste)
✔️ ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms (adds umami flavor and juiciness)
✔️ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a slight spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Meatloaf
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making the perfect moist chicken meatloaf.
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✅ Ground chicken
✅ Breadcrumbs
✅ Milk
✅ Egg
✅ Onion & Garlic
✅ Ketchup & Worcestershire sauce
✅ Salt, Pepper, Italian seasoning, Paprika
Gently mix with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or form it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet. Smooth out the top for even cooking.
4. Add the Glaze
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top. This will caramelize as it bakes, giving the meatloaf a delicious sweet-savory coating.
5. Bake the Meatloaf
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Let It Rest Before Slicing
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to be redistributed, keeping them moist.
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The Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe – Moist & Delicious!
- Total Time: 60-65 minutes
- Yield: 1 meatloaf 1x
Description
This Chicken Meatloaf is a healthier twist on the classic beef meatloaf, packed with juicy ground chicken, flavorful seasonings, and a deliciously tangy glaze. It’s moist, tender, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and form it into a loaf shape, or press it into a loaf pan.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top.
- Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Add shredded zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients. Swap Parmesan for cheddar for a cheesier flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: LUNCH
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Protein: ~30g
The Secret to Moist Chicken Meatloaf
One of the biggest concerns with chicken meatloaf is keeping it from drying out. Here are the best tips to ensure a juicy, tender meatloaf every time:
1. Use a Combination of Binders
Adding milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs helps trap moisture in the meatloaf. This prevents it from becoming too dense or dry.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat
Overmixing makes the meatloaf tough. Mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the texture light and moist.
3. Incorporate Moisture-Rich Ingredients
Shredded zucchini, mushrooms, or finely diced onions add extra moisture and keep the meatloaf from drying out.
4. Let the Meatloaf Rest
Cutting into the meatloaf too soon causes the juices to escape. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep it tender.
5. Use the Right Cooking Temperature
Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking while preventing dryness. Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 165°F (75°C).
Is It Better to Cook Meatloaf at 350°F or 375°F?
Cooking temperature is crucial in achieving a perfectly moist and tender chicken meatloaf. Many debate whether to bake meatloaf at 350°F or 375°F, so let’s break it down.
1. Cooking Meatloaf at 350°F
✔️ Results in a slower, more even cook
✔️ Helps prevent the outer layer from browning too quickly
✔️ Requires a longer cooking time (50-60 minutes)
✔️ Can sometimes dry out lean meats like ground chicken
2. Cooking Meatloaf at 375°F (Recommended)
✔️ Ideal temperature for chicken meatloaf
✔️ Cooks faster while still keeping the inside moist
✔️ Helps develop a beautiful caramelized crust
✔️ Total cooking time: 40-45 minutes
3. Best Temperature for Juicy Meatloaf
For the best results, bake at 375°F and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This prevents undercooking or overcooking, keeping your chicken meatloaf moist and flavorful.
Why Do You Put Milk in Meatloaf?
Milk is a key ingredient in traditional meatloaf recipes, and you might be wondering why it’s necessary. Here’s why milk is an essential component for juicy, tender meatloaf.
1. Milk Softens the Breadcrumbs
✔️ The primary reason for adding milk is to hydrate the breadcrumbs, making them soft and fluffy.
✔️ This prevents the meatloaf from becoming dense and tough.
2. Enhances Moisture
✔️ Since ground chicken is lean, it needs extra moisture to prevent dryness.
✔️ Milk traps moisture in the meatloaf, keeping it juicy throughout the baking process.
3. Adds Subtle Richness
✔️ The natural fats and proteins in milk help enhance the flavor.
✔️ Even though you won’t taste the milk itself, it creates a smooth and tender texture.
4. Milk Substitutes for Dairy-Free Meatloaf
If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can replace milk with:
✅ Chicken broth – Adds flavor and moisture
✅ Unsweetened almond milk – A mild, non-dairy alternative
✅ Oat milk – Creamy and neutral in taste
✅ Greek yogurt (thinned with water) – Provides richness and moisture
How to Make Ground Chicken Juicy
Ground chicken is leaner than beef or pork, which means it can sometimes turn out dry and crumbly if not prepared correctly. Here are the best-proven techniques to keep ground chicken juicy and flavorful.
1. Add Moisture-Boosting Ingredients
✔️ Milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs help bind and retain moisture.
✔️ Vegetables like grated zucchini or mushrooms add natural moisture.
✔️ Olive oil or a little butter can provide extra juiciness.
2. Avoid Overcooking
✔️ Overcooked chicken meatloaf can dry out quickly.
✔️ Use a meat thermometer and bake until 165°F (not more, not less!).
✔️ Remove from the oven as soon as it reaches temperature.
3. Let the Meatloaf Rest Before Slicing
✔️ Cutting into the meatloaf immediately after baking releases juices, making it dry.
✔️ Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
4. Mix Gently (But Not Too Much!)
✔️ Overmixing ground chicken makes the meatloaf tough.
✔️ Gently mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
5. Use the Right Cooking Temperature
✔️ Baking at 375°F ensures even cooking without drying it out.
✔️ A loaf pan traps moisture, while a baking sheet gives a firmer texture—choose based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Meatloaf
A great chicken meatloaf meal isn’t complete without delicious side dishes! Here are some perfect side dish ideas that pair beautifully with this recipe.
1. Classic Comfort Sides
✔️ Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, the perfect pairing!
✔️ Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add great flavor.
✔️ Buttered Corn on the Cob – A sweet and savory side to balance the meal.
2. Healthy & Low-Carb Options
✔️ Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Light and fresh vegetables that complement the dish.
✔️ Cauliflower Mash – A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
✔️ Zucchini Noodles – A fun, nutritious option.
3. Bread & Grain Options
✔️ Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up the meatloaf juices.
✔️ Quinoa or Brown Rice – Adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
✔️ Dinner Rolls – Soft, fluffy, and perfect for sopping up sauce.
4. Sauce & Condiments
✔️ Extra Ketchup Glaze – Adds extra sweetness and tang.
✔️ Homemade Gravy – A rich and flavorful drizzle.
✔️ BBQ Sauce or Honey Mustard – For a fun flavor twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Meatloaf
Even with a great recipe, small mistakes can lead to dry, tough, or flavorless meatloaf. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your chicken meatloaf turns out moist, tender, and packed with flavor.
1. Overmixing the Meat
✔️ Mixing too much breaks down the proteins in ground chicken, making the meatloaf dense and dry.
✔️ Mix until the ingredients are just combined—no more!
2. Skipping the Moisture-Boosting Ingredients
✔️ Chicken is lean, so breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and vegetables are essential for moisture.
✔️ Never omit these ingredients unless replacing them with something equally hydrating.
3. Baking at the Wrong Temperature
✔️ High heat (400°F or more) can cook the outside too fast, leaving the inside dry and tough.
✔️ Low heat (350°F or less) extends cooking time and may cause excess moisture loss.
✔️ 375°F is the perfect balance—crispy on the outside, moist on the inside.
4. Not Letting It Rest
✔️ Cutting meatloaf immediately causes the juices to escape, making it dry.
✔️ Always rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
5. Using a Loaf Pan Incorrectly
✔️ A loaf pan traps moisture, but if packed too tightly, the meatloaf won’t cook evenly.
✔️ Consider free-forming the loaf on a baking sheet for better texture.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll always get a perfectly juicy and delicious chicken meatloaf.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Meatloaf
If you have leftovers (or want to meal prep), knowing how to store and reheat chicken meatloaf properly is key.
1. Storing Chicken Meatloaf
✔️ In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
✔️ In the Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
2. Best Ways to Reheat Chicken Meatloaf
| Reheating Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Oven (Best Method) | Place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F for 10-15 minutes. |
| Microwave (Quickest Method) | Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes (cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out). |
| Skillet (Crispiest Method) | Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth for moisture. |
3. Can You Freeze Uncooked Chicken Meatloaf?
✔️ Yes! Shape the meatloaf, wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze.
✔️ When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
FAQs About Chicken Meatloaf
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
The secret to a moist meatloaf is using the right combination of moisture-retaining ingredients, such as milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, and vegetables. Also, avoid overmixing and overcooking!
Is it better to cook meatloaf at 350 or 375?
375°F is the best temperature for chicken meatloaf—it ensures even cooking while keeping the inside juicy and the outside slightly crisp.
Why do you put milk in meatloaf?
Milk hydrates the breadcrumbs, which locks in moisture and makes the meatloaf soft and tender.
How to make ground chicken juicy?
To keep ground chicken juicy:
✔️ Add moisture-rich ingredients (onions, mushrooms, shredded zucchini).
✔️ Use eggs, breadcrumbs, and milk to hold in moisture.
✔️ Don’t overcook—remove at 165°F!
Final Thoughts: The Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for a Healthier Dinner
This chicken meatloaf recipe is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a household favorite. By using moisture-rich ingredients, baking at the right temperature, and letting the meatloaf rest, you’ll get a juicy, tender, and delicious meal every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Healthier Alternative – Made with lean ground chicken instead of beef.
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Uses the right balance of spices and seasonings.
✔️ Easy to Make – Simple steps with no complicated techniques.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Store and reheat easily for later!
Try this delicious chicken meatloaf recipe today and enjoy a healthy twist on a portion of classic comfort food!