Picture a warm, hearty slice of chicken meatloaf, perfectly seasoned and gently steaming as it emerges from the oven, filling the kitchen with an inviting aroma.
This comforting dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a beloved favorite for cozy family dinners.
As the ingredients meld together, the flavors transform into a rich, savory delight.
Let’s bring this delicious meatloaf to life and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 loaf pan
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 spatula
- 1 meat thermometer
- 1 knife
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus additional for topping
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking chicken meatloaf, you can follow this timeline:
- Pre-reading (5 minutes):
- Spend a few minutes reading through the entire recipe and gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment.
- Preparation (15 minutes):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a small mixing bowl and let soak for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Whisk the egg in the large mixing bowl.
- Mixing Ingredients (5 minutes):
- Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the whisked egg and mix well.
- Add ground chicken, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika to the egg mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined, avoiding overworking the mixture.
- Shaping and Preparing for Baking (5 minutes):
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it evenly.
- Spread an additional layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
- Baking (1 hour):
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optionally, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 10 minutes for a crustier top.
- Resting (10 minutes):
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting it soak for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg and add the soaked breadcrumbs, mixing well.
Add ground chicken, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika to the egg mixture.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it evenly.
Spread an additional layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Tips
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that adds creamy texture and complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
- Steamed Vegetables: Light and healthy, they provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken meatloaf.
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispiness enhance the overall taste experience.
- Garden Salad: Invigorating and colorful, it adds a crisp element to the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy, buttery side with a hint of garlic that pairs well with the meatloaf’s flavors.
Storage
To store chicken meatloaf, wrap leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Freezing
To freeze chicken meatloaf, cool it completely.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Store in an airtight container.
Label with the date.
Consume within 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat chicken meatloaf, slice it and cover with foil.
Then warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave individual slices until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Chicken meatloaf is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf.
With its blend of flavorful ingredients like garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme, this dish provides a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Don’t forget to let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and tender.
For an added touch, serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Enjoy your homemade chicken meatloaf!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Turkey for the Chicken in the Meatloaf?
You can substitute turkey for chicken in the meatloaf. Use 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey. Maintain original seasoning ratios for ideal flavor. Monitor internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and proper texture.
How Can I Make the Meatloaf Spicy?
To spice up the meatloaf, add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Incorporate finely diced jalapeño or a tablespoon of hot sauce for an extra kick. Mix thoroughly.
What Sauce Pairs Well With Chicken Meatloaf?
Pair your meatloaf with a tangy barbecue sauce. Mix 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Simmer on low for 5 minutes, then drizzle over sliced meatloaf.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf Mixture?
Yes, you can incorporate vegetables by finely dicing 1/2 cup carrots, 1/2 cup bell peppers, and 1/4 cup celery. Sauté them until soft before mixing into the meatloaf. This enhances flavor and adds moisture.
Is It Possible to Make a Gluten-Free Version?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Substitute 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs for regular ones. Follow the same mixing, baking, and resting techniques. Confirm all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Chicken Meatloaf
Equipment
- 1 Loaf pan
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Small mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Meat thermometer
- 1 Knife
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup plus additional for topping
- 1/4 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting it soak for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg and add the soaked breadcrumbs, mixing well.
- Add ground chicken, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika to the egg mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it evenly.
- Spread an additional layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
