The aroma of a freshly baked chicken meatloaf wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture this: a golden-brown exterior that promises moist, tender bites within, laced with herbs and spices that dance on your palate. Each slice reveals a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that make you feel like a culinary genius.
Now let me take you down memory lane to my first experience with chicken meatloaf. It was an epic fail—think of a dry brick masquerading as dinner. But after countless trials (and one very brave dog), I’ve perfected this recipe that even picky eaters can’t resist. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or those nights when you need comfort food in your life. Get ready for an explosion of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken meatloaf is incredibly easy to prepare and full of flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds
- Its visual appeal makes it the star of any dinner table while being versatile enough for leftovers or sandwiches the next day
- Plus, it’s packed with healthy ingredients that don’t skimp on taste!
I still remember the time I surprised my family with this chicken meatloaf—everyone loved it so much they forgot about dessert.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep it healthy without sacrificing flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together while adding texture.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs work best; they act as a binding agent ensuring your meatloaf holds its shape.
- Onion: Finely chop fresh onion; it adds moisture and flavor while keeping things aromatic.
- Garlic Powder: This brings depth to your meatloaf without overwhelming other flavors; use as needed.
- Ketchup: A classic topping that provides sweetness and moisture—don’t skip it!
For the Seasoning:
- Dried Oregano: Adds an Italian twist; go for high-quality herbs for maximum flavor impact.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the lovely flavors in your dish; season generously!
- Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds freshness to every slice.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your chicken meatloaf cooks evenly from the moment you pop it in.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic powder, eggs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
Add Some Flavor Boosters: Drizzle ketchup into the mixture for added moisture and sweetness. You can also reserve some ketchup to top off your meatloaf later.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer your mixture onto a lined baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form that’s about 2 inches high.
Bake It Up!: Slide your expertly formed loaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes until cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Let It Rest Before Slicing: Once out of the oven, let your beautiful creation rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes serving easier!
Enjoy every bite of this delicious chicken meatloaf that’s bound to become a weekly favorite!
You Must Know
- Chicken meatloaf is not just a meal; it’s comfort food with a twist
- The juicy texture and savory aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters, turning dinner into a delightful surprise!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by preheating the oven to 350°F. While it heats up, mix your ingredients for even distribution, then shape into a loaf and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chicken meatloaf by adding spices like paprika or herbs such as parsley. You can also toss in shredded carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through, keeping them moist with a splash of broth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let the meatloaf rest before slicing; this helps retain juices
- Avoid overmixing the ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy
- Try using different types of cheese within for a creamy surprise that elevates each bite!
The first time I made chicken meatloaf, my family was skeptical but ended up asking for seconds! It became a regular request at our dinner table since then.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for meatloaf?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative while maintaining similar moisture levels.
How long should I bake chicken meatloaf?
Bake your chicken meatloaf for about 60-70 minutes at 350°F for optimal doneness.
What can I add to keep my meatloaf moist?
Adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk or grated vegetables helps ensure your chicken meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.
Chicken Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor this easy chicken meatloaf recipe featuring juicy ground chicken and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic powder, eggs, salt, pepper, and oregano until just mixed.
- Add ketchup for moisture and mix again gently.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a lined loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini into the mix. - Experiment with different herbs like thyme or spices such as paprika.
