Chicken Meatloaf Recipe That’s Juicy, Healthy, and Packed with Flavor

If you’re hunting for a dinner that checks all the boxes—tender, wholesome, and packed with flavor—this chicken meatloaf recipe is it. Swapping out traditional beef for lean ground chicken gives you a lighter meal without sacrificing that cozy, homestyle taste.

Inspired by classic comfort food but reimagined with healthy ingredients, this chicken meatloaf recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, Sunday meal prep, or anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying. We’ll also share key tips to avoid common mistakes, like dryness or crumbling, so your meatloaf comes out perfect on the first try.

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Why Make a Chicken Meatloaf Recipe?

Traditional meatloaf usually starts with beef, but ground chicken creates a softer, lighter texture and soaks up seasonings beautifully. It’s lower in saturated fat, making it a smart option for anyone watching their intake. Plus, with the right mix of aromatics and spices, a chicken meatloaf recipe can be just as hearty and comforting.

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Here’s everything you need to build a flavorful, moist loaf that slices perfectly every time:

Base Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken (93% lean)
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp ketchup or BBQ sauce
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil), optional

Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

💡 Note: Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk makes your chicken meatloaf recipe exceptionally tender and juicy.

How to Make This Chicken Meatloaf Recipe – Step by Step

1. Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2–3 minutes.

2. Mix Ingredients

Add ground chicken, egg, grated onion, garlic, Worcestershire, ketchup, salt, pepper, and herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat!

3. Shape the Loaf

Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper. Press the meat mixture into the pan or shape it free-form on a baking sheet.

4. Bake and Glaze

Bake for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. After 25 minutes, remove the loaf, spread glaze on top, and return to the oven for 15–20 more minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This locks in juices and ensures neat portions.

No oven? No problem! You can still enjoy this dish using the stovetop method. Check out our Stove-Top Meatloaf Recipe — same classic flavor, just cooked à la marmita 🔥.

Chicken Meatloaf Recipe Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the milk-soaked breadcrumbs – they prevent a dry loaf.
• Use a thermometer – 165°F is your target for juicy perfection.
• Add sautéed veggies – carrots, bell peppers, and celery boost flavor and texture.
• Glaze it right – the sweet-tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully.

Creative Chicken Meatloaf Variations

Want to remix your chicken meatloaf recipe? Try these flavor twists:

• Buffalo Style: Add hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
• Tex-Mex: Mix in taco seasoning and top with salsa.
• Greek-Inspired: Add oregano, olives, and feta.

Make it gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs or dairy-free with oat milk and egg substitutes.

Or pair it with a comforting side dish like this flavorful Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe — it’s a perfect balance of protein and spice, ideal for a Moroccan-style hearty plate.

Storing & Reheating Chicken Meatloaf

• Fridge: Store slices in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced meatloaf for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or oven-heat slices until warm.

Or if you’re looking to switch it up midweek, try our easy and healthy Ground Beef Broccoli Recipe—a quick stir-fry full of flavor and perfect for meal prep.

Leftover Magic: Meatloaf Sandwiches

Use slices in sandwiches with toasted sourdough, baby spinach, and spicy mayo for a next-day lunch that’s anything but boring.

❓Chicken Meatloaf FAQ

Chicken Meatloaf Recipe That’s Juicy, Healthy, and Packed with Flavor

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• Author: Camila
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This chicken meatloaf is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—moist, flavorful, and packed with lean protein. Swapping beef for ground chicken makes it lighter but just as hearty. Finished with a sweet-tangy glaze, it’s a family-friendly dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meatloaf:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) ground chicken (preferably 93% lean)

• ¾ cup breadcrumbs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 small onion, grated

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup or BBQ sauce

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil), optional

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

 

1. Prep the Binder:
   In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:
   Add ground chicken, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, herbs, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix until just combined—don’t overwork.

3. Shape the Loaf:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or shape a free-form loaf on a lined baking sheet.

4. Bake – Round 1:
   Bake for 25 minutes uncovered.

5. Make the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.

6. Glaze and Finish Baking:
   Remove meatloaf, spread glaze over the top, and return to the oven. Bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest and Serve:
   Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

1. Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking. 165°F is the sweet spot.
2. If the loaf releases a lot of liquid, drain before glazing.
3. Letting the loaf rest helps it firm up for clean slices.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Final Thoughts on the Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

This chicken meatloaf recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be—easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing. With a juicy texture, bold glaze, and comforting flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. And with so many customization options, you’ll never get bored.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and make the best chicken meatloaf recipe your family’s ever tasted.

Love slow-cooked meals? Then you’ve got to explore these Ground Beef Crockpot Recipes — perfect for busy days when you wanna eat bzaaf but cook chwiya.