5-Star Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for a Perfect Family Dinner

Chicken Meatloaf Recipe: A Lighter Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

There’s something so nostalgic about meatloaf—it’s one of those classic comfort foods that brings back memories of family dinners, leftovers in lunchboxes, and that cozy aroma filling the kitchen. But in my family, especially during the warmer months when we wanted something a little lighter, Nonna would swap out the usual beef for chicken. The result? A juicy, flavorful chicken meatloaf that’s every bit as comforting, but a touch healthier and fresher.

This chicken meatloaf recipe is perfect for both summer and winter. It’s hearty enough to warm you up on a chilly evening, yet light enough to enjoy with a crisp salad during the summer. Packed with tender ground chicken, savory seasonings, and topped with a slightly sweet, tangy glaze, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

• Healthier option: Ground chicken is leaner than beef but still flavorful.

• Moist and juicy: No dry meatloaf here—this recipe uses a secret ingredient (spoiler: it’s milk!) to keep the meat tender.

• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love it!

• Easy to make: Just mix, shape, glaze, and bake.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground chicken

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• ⅓ cup milk

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Glaze:

• ⅓ cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or regular mustard)

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls

• Loaf pan (or free-form on a baking sheet)

• Spatula or mixing spoon

• Foil (optional for covering during baking)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Before mixing, make sure your onion and garlic are finely chopped. This helps them blend into the meatloaf better and cook evenly.

2. Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix—it can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan, or shape it into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pat it down gently to form an even shape.

4. Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf. Reserve the rest for later.

5. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 35 minutes. After 35 minutes, spread the remaining glaze on top and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for cleaner slices.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this chicken meatloaf recipe with:

• Mashed potatoes or a lighter cauliflower mash

• Steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad

• Roasted carrots or corn on the cob in summer

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Tips for the Best Chicken Meatloaf

• Don’t skip the milk: It adds moisture and helps the breadcrumbs bind.

• Use a thermometer: Ensures doneness without overcooking.

• Make it ahead: Prep the loaf and refrigerate (uncooked) for up to 24 hours.

• Freeze leftovers: Slice and wrap individually for easy reheating.

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Variations

• Cheesy Chicken Meatloaf: Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella to the mixture.

• Spicy Twist: Use chipotle ketchup or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

• Herby Version: Add fresh parsley or basil to the meat mixture.

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Common Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes, this recipe works equally well with ground turkey. Just be sure it’s not too lean or it might turn out dry.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can substitute crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked quinoa.

How long does chicken meatloaf last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

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A Dish Worth Repeating

This chicken meatloaf recipe is one I return to again and again, especially when I want to serve something comforting without feeling weighed down. Whether it’s summer or winter, a busy weeknight or a quiet Sunday dinner, it always hits the spot. Try it out and let me know how you tweak it for your own family!

Rad more : https://chefnip.com/chicken-and-stuffing-casserole-recipe/

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary based on ingredients, here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving:

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 520mg

This makes it a balanced option with lean protein, making it ideal for anyone watching their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.

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Storing & Reheating

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Good for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap slices in foil or place them in freezer bags. Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals.

• Skillet: Heat on medium with a lid on, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

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Meal Prep Friendly

One of the best things about this chicken meatloaf recipe is how meal-prep friendly it is. It’s easy to:

• Make in advance: Prep and store it uncooked in the fridge.

• Double batch: Make two loaves, bake one and freeze the other.

• Use leftovers creatively: Slice and add to sandwiches, wraps, or crumble into rice bowls.

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Making It Gluten-Free

To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet:

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.

• Make sure your Worcestershire sauce and ketchup are gluten-free.

• Double-check all seasonings and add-ins for hidden gluten.

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Kid-Friendly Tips

Kids love this chicken meatloaf recipe, but here are some ideas to make it even more appealing:

• Mini loaves or muffins: Use a muffin tin to make individual portions.

• Add cheese: Kids usually love gooey mozzarella or cheddar inside.

• Serve with ketchup art: Let them drizzle their own designs with ketchup.

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Chicken Meatloaf vs. Traditional Meatloaf

This makes chicken meatloaf a great alternative when you’re craving something classic but not too heavy.

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What to Serve With Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s a more detailed list of side dish options, whether you’re going summery or hearty:

Light Summer Sides:

• Tomato and cucumber salad with balsamic drizzle

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini

• Quinoa and chickpea salad

• Chilled corn and avocado salsa

Hearty Winter Sides:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts with parmesan

• Baked mac and cheese

• Warm green bean almondine

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Make It a Complete Meal

Want to round out dinner with dessert and a drink? Try:

• Dessert: A slice of apple pie or berry crumble.

• Drink: Iced tea with lemon in summer or hot spiced cider in winter.

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