As a busy parent, finding quick, tasty meals for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy chicken meatloaf recipe with you. It’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, healthy dinner.
This chicken meatloaf is easy to make and tastes amazing. It’s made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a tasty ketchup glaze. It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love, ready in just 1 hour. It’s perfect for a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Homemade Chicken Meatloaf
Explore the joy of Poultry Meatloaf with this simple recipe for homemade Ground Chicken Recipes. Chicken meatloaf is a healthier choice than beef, offering a moist and tasty dish. It’s great for a cozy weeknight dinner.
This recipe mixes ground chicken with ingredients like breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. It creates a Lean Meatloaf Dishes full of flavor.
A ketchup glaze adds sweetness and makes it a hit with families. It’s quick to make, ready in just one hour. It’s sure to be a favorite in your home.
This tasty Poultry Meatloaf recipe has been shared 841 times. It uses 2 lbs of ground chicken or turkey. This recipe gives a generous portion size to feed everyone.
The Ground Chicken Recipes are nutritious, with 330 calories, 31g of protein, 8g of sugar, and 953mg of sodium per serving. It’s perfect for those watching their diet. The cooking method is detailed, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Making a tasty and healthy chicken meatloaf begins with picking the right ingredients. The base of this Healthy Meatloaf Alternative is top-notch ground chicken. It’s lean and packed with protein, making it perfect for a Protein-Packed Entree.
Ground Chicken and Aromatics
The recipe needs 1 pound of ground chicken, the main ingredient. To boost the flavor, add ½ cup of finely chopped onion. Also, use garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to season the mix.
Binding Ingredients and Seasonings
- 1¼ cups of breadcrumbs to help bind the meatloaf together
- ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese for a savory touch
- ¼ cup of fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness
- ½ cup of milk and 2 eggs to add moisture and structure
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
Glaze Components
The glaze is the crowning glory of the meatloaf. It’s a mix of ¾ cup of ketchup, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. This glaze caramelizes in the oven, adding a tangy-sweet finish to your Healthy Meatloaf Alternative.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty chicken meatloaf at home, you need some key kitchen tools. Whether you’re looking for Meal Prep Ideas or Easy Weeknight Dinners, the right tools are crucial. Here are the must-haves for your chicken meatloaf recipe:
- An 8×4-inch loaf pan to bake the meatloaf in
- A large mixing bowl to combine the meatloaf ingredients
- A medium bowl for mixing the dry ingredients like breadcrumbs and seasonings
- A small bowl for preparing the flavorful glaze
- A meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C)
You might also need a food processor to chop veggies finely. And a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper to catch drippings. With these tools, you’ll make a moist and tasty chicken meatloaf that everyone will love.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 8×4-inch Loaf Pan | Baking the chicken meatloaf |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combining the meatloaf ingredients |
| Medium Bowl | Mixing the dry ingredients |
| Small Bowl | Preparing the glaze |
| Meat Thermometer | Ensuring the meatloaf reaches the proper internal temperature |
| Food Processor (optional) | Finely chopping vegetables |
| Rimmed Baking Sheet | Catching drippings during baking |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Make a tasty Family-Friendly Meal with this easy chicken meatloaf recipe. First, heat your oven to 350°F. Then, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings like garlic and Italian seasoning in a big bowl. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Mixing the Meatloaf Base
To get the best Comfort Food Makeover, mix the ingredients well. Don’t overmix, as it can make the meatloaf dense. Use your hands or a fork to mix gently until just combined.
Creating the Perfect Glaze
Now, make the tasty glaze. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and a bit of Worcestershire sauce. This glaze will add sweetness and a caramelized finish to your meatloaf.
Shaping and Baking Tips
Shape the meatloaf mix into a loaf shape and spread the glaze on top. Bake in a preheated oven for 80-90 minutes, until it’s 165°F inside. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. For better cooking, flip the meatloaf on a baking sheet halfway through.
Just follow these steps for a delicious, Comfort Food Makeover everyone will enjoy. Serve your homemade chicken meatloaf with your favorite sides for a fulfilling meal.
Secret Tips for Moist and Flavorful Results
Making a tasty Lean Meatloaf Dishes or Healthy Meatloaf Alternatives is an art. To get a moist, juicy chicken meatloaf, try these tips:
- Add milk or mayonnaise to the mix. It helps the ingredients stick together and keeps the meatloaf soft.
- Don’t overmix the meat. Too much mixing can make it tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Use both white and dark chicken for the best taste and moisture. Dark meat adds richness, while white meat keeps it lean.
- Chop fresh veggies like carrots, onions, and spinach finely. Add them to the meatloaf. They add moisture and flavor.
- Put the glaze on in layers while baking. This lets the flavors soak in and caramelize, making the taste even better.
By using these tips, you’ll make a Lean Meatloaf Dishes or Healthy Meatloaf Alternatives that’s moist, tender, and full of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits and Health Considerations
The chicken and lamb pesto meatloaf is a top choice for protein-packed meals. It’s not just tasty but also packed with nutrients. One slice has about 337 calories, 12g of fat, 37g of carbs, and 22g of protein.
Caloric Content and Macronutrients
Ground chicken makes this meatloaf leaner than beef. It’s better for your Protein-Packed Entrees and Healthy Meatloaf Alternatives. Dark greens, olive oil, and garlic add vitamins and minerals, helping your thyroid.
Healthy Substitutions
- Try whole grain breadcrumbs or less sugar in the glaze for a healthier meatloaf.
- Replace ground lamb with lean turkey or beef for more health benefits.
- Pair the meatloaf with olive oil mashed cauliflower and sweet potatoes for a full meal.
With a few tweaks, you can enjoy this Protein-Packed Entree while keeping your health in mind.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
There are endless ways to serve homemade chicken meatloaf. This classic comfort food goes well with many side dishes. These can turn it into a complete and satisfying Family-Friendly Meal. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or a cozy Comfort Food Makeover, these ideas will make your meatloaf stand out.
Try pairing the chicken meatloaf with creamy Mashed Potatoes or roasted Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and broccoli. For a heartier side, Baked Beans or a fresh Salad are great choices. You can also slice the meatloaf for sandwiches or add it to Pasta Dishes for a quick meal.
Use leftover meatloaf to make a savory Breakfast Skillet or a comforting Shepherd’s Pie. The options are endless for enjoying this versatile dish!
With 13 must-try meatloaf recipes and 20 side dish suggestions, you’ll find plenty of ways to create the perfect Family-Friendly Meal or Comfort Food Makeover. These will surely delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Meal prepping doesn’t have to stop after cooking. You can keep your homemade chicken meatloaf fresh for longer. This way, it’s always ready for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Keep leftover chicken meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. When reheating, add 1-2 tablespoons of broth to keep it moist. Heat it in a 250°F oven for 25-30 minutes, until it’s warm.
Freezing Methods
- Wrap individual slices of chicken meatloaf in aluminum foil and put them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Frozen meatloaf lasts up to 4 months. Thaw the slices in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- To reheat from frozen, use the oven at 350°F for 30-45 minutes. Make sure it reaches 165°F inside.
Adding Meal Prep Ideas and Easy Weeknight Dinners to your routine is easy with this chicken meatloaf recipe. Its storage and reheating options make it super convenient.
Recipe Variations and Modifications
Make your Ground Chicken Recipes even better by trying new flavors. Add Cajun spices or Italian herbs to the meatloaf for a unique taste. You can also mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies and nutrients.
Want a gluten-free option? Use almond flour or gluten-free panko instead of breadcrumbs. Add crispy bacon or melted mozzarella cheese on top for extra flavor. Try shaping the mixture into mini loaves or meatballs for a fun twist.
There are countless ways to make this chicken meatloaf recipe your own. Experiment with different flavors and presentation styles. With a few changes, you can turn this classic dish into a family favorite.