Irresistible Moist Chicken Meatloaf : A Comforting Classic with a Twist

If you’re craving hearty comfort food but want a healthier alternative to traditional beef recipes, this Chicken Meatloaf is the answer. Made with lean ground chicken and topped with a sticky barbecue glaze, it’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or prepping meals for the week, this Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe will easily become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, if you love adding new twists to your meals, you’ll enjoy discovering how to transform this basic meatloaf into Asian-style, muffin-sized portions, or even a keto-friendly version. We’ll also point you toward tasty side dish ideas, similar recipes, and desserts to round out your meal using resources from our dinner recipe collection.

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Why This Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is a Must-Try

This recipe combines simple pantry staples to create a juicy, flavorful loaf that doesn’t dry out—a common issue with lean meats. It uses sautéed onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk to build a moist base. The sweet and smoky BBQ glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding bold flavor and a stunning finish.

Plus, Chicken Meatloaf is lighter than beef, making it a great choice for anyone aiming for a lower-fat, higher-protein dinner. It’s also kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and reheats like a dream.

Want to pair it with an easy side? Try this Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini—it’s a perfect complement to meatloaf’s savory profile.

Who Will Love This Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe?

This recipe is ideal for:

• Families with picky eaters
• Busy weeknights or meal preppers
• Those cutting back on red meat
• Home cooks seeking comfort without the calories
• Anyone looking for an affordable, protein-rich main course

If you enjoy budget-friendly meals like this, don’t miss our easy Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry for another lean dinner idea.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Meatloaf

You’ll need these ingredients for the meatloaf and glaze:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken (about 700g)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Barbecue Glaze:

• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon mustard (optional)

Looking for a gluten-free version? Swap in almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for the breadcrumbs.

How to Make Chicken Meatloaf (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment for easy removal.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil and cook the chopped onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Let it cool.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Breadcrumbs

Fold in breadcrumbs and ground chicken gently. Don’t overmix—this keeps the texture light and tender.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

Shape into a loaf in your prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Apply the Glaze

Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl. After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread glaze on top, and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in and improves texture.

For a fun twist on this dish, check out our kid-friendly Mini Pancake Cereal as a breakfast-for-dinner side.

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Baking Tips for Moist Ground Chicken Meatloaf Every Time

• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Mix until just combined.
• Sauté onions and garlic first—raw onions release moisture and affect texture.
• Use a thermometer to avoid overbaking and drying out the loaf.
• Resting after baking is crucial—it locks in moisture.
• Soak breadcrumbs in the liquid mixture to help retain moisture.

These small steps make a big difference in producing a moist, flavorful chicken meatloaf.

Variations: Asian Style Chicken Meatloaf and More

Want to customize this recipe? Try these fun variations:

Asian Style Chicken Meatloaf

Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, a teaspoon of grated ginger, green onions, and a dash of sesame oil. Top with Sweet Chili Sauce instead of BBQ glaze.

Mediterranean Chicken Loaf

Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a handful of spinach for a herby, bold flavor.

Keto Chicken Meatloaf

Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour and use a low-sugar BBQ sauce. Try pairing it with Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs for a complete keto meal plan.

Easy Chicken Meatloaf Muffins for Meal Prep

Portion-controlled and freezer-friendly, these muffins are great for grab-and-go meals.

• Spray a 12-cup muffin tin
• Divide meatloaf mixture evenly
• Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes
• Add glaze in the last 5 minutes

Perfect for pairing with Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls to start your day with protein.

What to Serve with Chicken Meatloaf

Complete your meal with these simple sides:

• Scalloped Potatoes
• Garlicky Kale with White Beans
• Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Pumpkin Twists for a seasonal side

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Loaf

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Slice before storing for quick reheating.

Freezer: Wrap slices in parchment and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.

Pair your leftovers with Cottage Cheese Egg Salad for a refreshing high-protein lunch.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat thermometer
• Muffin tin (optional)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing – makes meatloaf dense
2. Undercooking – always use a meat thermometer
3. Skipping the rest period – essential for juiciness
4. Using raw onion – sauté it for better texture
5. Not using a glaze – adds both flavor and moisture

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Meatloaf

• Slice evenly and arrange on a white platter
• Drizzle with extra glaze for shine
• Garnish with fresh parsley
• Serve with colorful sides like Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
• Pair with roasted veggies for balance

Chicken Meatloaf Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Use dark meat ground chicken for extra moisture
• Add shredded zucchini for hidden veggies
• Make ahead and refrigerate before baking
• Try free-form baking on parchment for a rustic look
• Double the batch and freeze one for later

Want more cozy dinners? Try our Baked Chicken Legs or hearty Crockpot Fajitas.

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FAQs about Chicken Meatloaf

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a great substitute.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sauces.

How do I know when it’s cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make it without a loaf pan?
Yes, form the loaf by hand and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Can I prep it ahead?
Absolutely. Refrigerate the uncooked loaf for up to 24 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Chicken Meatloaf recipe is everything you want in a home-cooked meal: healthy, hearty, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you go classic with BBQ glaze or get creative with variations like Asian-style or muffin tins, it’s always a hit.

Love this recipe? Share it with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to the blog for more cozy, crave-worthy recipes. Don’t forget to check out Pumpkin Chicken Chili for another satisfying dinner idea!

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