Welcome to the ultimate guide for preparing the best Ground Chicken Meatloaf. This recipe redefines comfort food, offering a cheesy, healthy, and incredibly easy-to-make alternative to traditional meatloaf. Whether you prefer a classic loaf, convenient meatloaf muffins, or bite-sized meatballs, this versatile dish promises a dinner the entire family will adore. Beyond its delicious taste, it’s also wonderfully low in carbs, making it a perfect fit for a balanced lifestyle.
Revolutionizing Your Dinner Table with Chicken Meatloaf
Forget everything you thought you knew about meatloaf! This isn’t your grandma’s bland, dry version. Our homemade meatloaf made with ground chicken is designed to change perceptions, transforming this classic into a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly moist meal. Much like the popular buffalo chicken meatloaf, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be utterly delicious and satisfying.
One of the best parts about this dish? The leftovers! Plan for extra so you can enjoy gourmet meatloaf sandwiches the next day, or get creative by using the slices to make delightful Chicken Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers. It’s a meal that keeps on giving!
Why This Ground Chicken Meatloaf Will Be Your New Favorite
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- It’s unequivocally healthy and low-carb, providing a guilt-free indulgence for any meal.
- Prep time is minimal – just a few minutes of active work, and the oven does the rest, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- It’s incredibly versatile in shaping: mould it into a traditional loaf, convenient “muffins,” or quick-cooking meatballs. The latter two options bake in under 20 minutes!
- This meatloaf freezes beautifully, whether before or after cooking, making it a dream for meal planning and batch cooking. We perfected this technique at our make-ahead meal stores, so you know it’s tried and true.
Ingredient Notes and Expert Tips
Crafting a truly exceptional ground chicken meatloaf begins with understanding each ingredient and its role. Below are the core components that come together to create this flavorful, juicy, and wholesome meal.
- Ground Chicken: For the most tender and flavorful meatloaf, opt for ground chicken that isn’t solely labeled “breast meat.” A mix of dark and white meat offers a richer flavor and firmer texture after cooking. While ground chicken breast works, it’s softer before cooking and only sets fully when done. Rest assured, either choice results in a dish that doesn’t release much fat. For variety or if you don’t have chicken, ground turkey or even ground beef can be substituted with excellent results.
- Oatmeal: This unsung hero acts as the perfect binder and moisture absorber, ensuring your meatloaf stays juicy and holds its shape without falling apart. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the oats in the final product – they simply melt into the mixture, providing structure and nutritional value. Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal, but quick-cooking oats, traditional breadcrumbs, or panko breadcrumbs are all viable substitutes.
- Ketchup: Ketchup provides that classic tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile that meatloaf is known for. To keep this recipe truly low-carb, we highly recommend using a sugar-free brand for the mix and the top glaze. You can also experiment with a homemade sugar-free BBQ sauce for a different twist.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheeses: These cheeses are not just for flavor; they play a crucial role in binding the ingredients and contributing to the meatloaf’s incredibly moist and cheesy texture. The combination of creamy mozzarella and sharp Parmesan creates a delightful taste. Feel free to experiment with other shredded cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend for a unique flavor dimension.
- Diced Onion & Salt: These foundational aromatics and seasonings are essential. Finely diced onion adds subtle sweetness and savory depth, while salt enhances all the flavors. Don’t underestimate their power in elevating the overall taste.
- Egg: A single egg helps further bind all the ingredients together, ensuring the meatloaf remains cohesive and moist during baking.
Step-by-Step Directions for a Perfect Meatloaf
Making this chicken meatloaf is remarkably straightforward, but a few key techniques ensure a perfect, evenly flavored, and tender result every time. Follow these steps for success!
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, diced onion, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the dry elements and cheeses are evenly distributed. This step prevents clumps and ensures flavor in every bite.
- Incorporate Wet Binders: Add the ketchup and lightly beaten egg to the dry mixture. Stir well until everything is just moistened. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Add Ground Chicken (and don’t overmix!): Gently add the ground chicken to the wet mixture. Using your hands (the best tools for this job!), mix until the chicken is *just* incorporated with the other ingredients. The crucial tip here is to **avoid overmixing**, as this can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix only until no streaks of plain chicken remain.
- Shape and Bake: Press the ground chicken mixture evenly into a loaf pan. For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish, spread about a tablespoon of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). (Explore more shaping options and their corresponding cook times below for different meal ideas!)
For optimal results and to guarantee a moist, perfectly cooked meatloaf, we highly recommend using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the loaf to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful slice.
Versatile Shaping Options and Cooking Times
One of the many joys of this ground chicken meatloaf recipe is its adaptability. The meatloaf mixture can be shaped in several ways, each offering unique benefits for meal prep, portion control, and cooking speed. The baking time will naturally vary depending on your chosen shape.
- Standard Loaf: This is the classic approach. Use a 1-pound or 2-pound loaf pan for a hearty, family-sized meal. We highly recommend a loaf pan with a lifter insert, which allows you to easily remove the meatloaf while leaving excess juices behind for a cleaner cut. Alternatively, you can shape the mixture into a free-form loaf by hand and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. A 1-pound loaf typically cooks in about 45 minutes, while a larger 2-pound loaf will require a little over an hour.
- Mini Loaves: For individual portions or quicker cooking, shape the meat mixture into smaller, mini loaves. You can use specially designed mini loaf tins or simply hand-form them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The cooking time is almost halved compared to a standard loaf, making them a fantastic weeknight option. One pound of ground chicken yields approximately three mini loaves.
- Meatloaf Muffins: These are perfect for portion control, packed lunches, or quick appetizers. Simply press the mixture into a standard cupcake tin. They cook incredibly fast, typically in about 20 minutes, reaching that perfect golden-brown crust. This method makes about 12 meatloaf muffins. For even tinier bites, use a mini muffin tin to create about 36 adorable and delicious meatloaf “bites” – great for parties!
- Meatballs: Transform your meatloaf mixture into savory meatballs. Use an ice cream scoop to create uniform ¼ cup meatballs, placing them on a baking sheet. These are the fastest to cook, usually done in around 15 minutes. This yields about 12 medium-sized meatballs, perfect for serving with pasta, in a sandwich, or as a standalone appetizer.
Regardless of the shape you choose, always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal taste.
Storage and Freezer Guidelines for Meal Prep Success
This ground chicken meatloaf is not only delicious fresh but also an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals and freezing, ensuring you always have a wholesome dinner option ready to go.
- Refrigerator Storage: Any leftover cooked meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave until heated through, or gently warm in the oven for a crispier exterior.
- Make-Ahead and Freeze: This recipe truly shines in its freezer-friendliness, whether you freeze it before or after cooking.
- For an Uncooked Loaf: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and press it into your loaf pan. To freeze, encase the pan tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. For extra protection against freezer burn, place it in a large resealable freezer bag. Label clearly with the date. Uncooked meatloaf will keep exceptionally well for 3-6 months when packaged tightly, though we generally recommend consuming frozen foods within 2 months for best quality.
- For a Cooked Loaf: Allow the cooked meatloaf to cool completely. You can freeze it whole, in halves, or pre-slice it for individual portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place in an airtight freezer-safe container. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- When Ready to Eat: To cook an uncooked frozen loaf, transfer it to the refrigerator to defrost overnight. Then, bake according to the original directions, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it’s still partially frozen. For a cooked frozen loaf, transfer it to the refrigerator to defrost overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What to Serve with Your Healthy Chicken Meatloaf
This hearty ground chicken meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic and healthy side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A timeless favorite that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf.
- Loaded Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative that’s equally comforting and flavorful. (Try our recipe!)
- Crispy Roasted Green Beans: A simple yet elegant vegetable side that adds freshness and a delightful crunch. (Recipe here!)
- Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Asparagus: Quick, healthy, and vibrant, it’s a perfect green pairing.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet and savory side that children and adults alike will enjoy.
- Dinner Rolls or Cornbread: Ideal for soaking up any delicious juices or making mini meatloaf sliders.
Explore More Delicious Chicken Meatloaf Variations
If you loved this ground chicken meatloaf, you’ll be thrilled to discover other exciting variations. All of these delicious dinner recipes can also be adapted to a loaf shape!
- Turkey Meatloaf Muffins with Salsa
- Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf
- Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ready for more easy, healthy, and carb-conscious recipes?
📋 Best Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Best Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
This ultimate Ground Chicken Meatloaf recipe is cheesy, healthy, and a breeze to prepare! Whether you shape it into a classic loaf, quick muffins, or flavorful meatballs, your family will adore this healthy, low-carb comfort dinner.
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Equipment
- Meatloaf Pan
Ingredients
- ½ cup oatmeal (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup diced onion (about ½ medium-sized onion)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup ketchup (Plus 1 Tablespoon more to glaze the top. Use sugar-free for even lower-carb result)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 pound ground chicken
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add oatmeal, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced onion, and salt to a large bowl and mix to combine thoroughly.
- Add ketchup and the lightly beaten egg to the bowl and mix well until a cohesive mixture forms.
- Add the ground chicken and mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the chicken tough.
- Press the mixture into a loaf pan and spread about 1 Tablespoon of ketchup evenly over the top for a glaze. (Refer to the “Shaping Options and Cook Times” section above for alternative shapes and baking durations.)
- Bake uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C). We highly recommend using a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Allow the cooked chicken loaf to rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period ensures a juicier and more tender meatloaf.
Last Step
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Notes
You’ll find more expert tips and step-by-step pictures above!
Other Shaping Options & Cook Times:
- Standard loaf: Use a 1-pound or 2-pound tin, or shape by hand on a baking sheet. A 2-pound loaf will take a little over an hour to cook.
- Mini loaves: Use a specially made tin or hand-shape. Cook time is almost cut in half. 1 pound of ground chicken makes 3 mini loaves.
- Meatloaf muffins: Press into a cupcake tin. Cook time is about 20 minutes. Makes 12 muffins (or 36 mini bites in a mini muffin tin).
- Meatballs: Use a ¼ cup ice cream scoop. Done in about 15 minutes. Makes 12 meatballs.
Storage and Make-Ahead Freeze:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave until warm.
- Make-Ahead and Freeze: Prepare and freeze meatloaf before or after cooking.
- For an uncooked loaf: Encase the pan in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, then place in a resealable freezer bag. Label and store for 3-6 months (we recommend 2 months for optimal quality, but tightly packaged raw meatloaf keeps very well).
- For a cooked loaf: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- When ready to eat: Move the meatloaf to the refrigerator to defrost overnight and cook or reheat according to the directions.
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Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 10g |
Protein: 22g |
Fat: 14g |
Saturated Fat: 6g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 114mg |
Sodium: 677mg |
Potassium: 526mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 341IU |
Vitamin C: 2mg |
Calcium: 203mg |
Iron: 1mg
Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer