If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish, you’re in the right place. Ground chicken meatloaf is not only savory, but it’s also simple to make. With just a mix of tasty ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that everyone will love. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this straightforward recipe that will become a family favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: This ground chicken meatloaf is a lighter take on a classic comfort food, making it a guilt-free option for family dinners.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that will satisfy any meatloaf lover.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavor Enhancers
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Binding Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe for ground chicken meatloaf is simple and full of flavor. I love using ground chicken because it is lean and cooks well. The breadcrumbs hold everything together, while the Parmesan cheese adds a rich taste.
Chopped onion and minced garlic bring a nice depth to the meatloaf. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
The egg acts as a binding agent, making sure the meatloaf holds its shape. Worcestershire sauce and ketchup bring a sweet and tangy taste to the mix.
For seasonings, dried oregano and smoked paprika give the dish an extra kick. Salt and pepper round out the flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This keeps the meatloaf cooking evenly.
2. Lightly grease your loaf pan. This helps the meatloaf slide out easily later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mix forms the base of your meatloaf.
Mixing Techniques
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients well.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your meatloaf.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the ground chicken mix. Use your hands or a spatula to blend everything together until smooth.
Shaping and Baking
1. Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form.
2. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a nice glaze.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To keep your ground chicken meatloaf moist, do not overmix the meat. Mix just until combined. This helps keep the juices in.
Bake the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes. Always check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer works best for this.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of the meatloaf by adding spices. Try thyme, basil, or even a pinch of chili powder for a kick.
For a tasty glaze, swap ketchup for barbecue sauce or honey mustard. Both work well and add unique flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli. These add color and nutrition to your plate.
For a nice touch, drizzle more ketchup on the meatloaf slices. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This makes your dish look more inviting.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of your meatloaf significantly. Opt for freshly chopped parsley and freshly minced garlic for the best results.
- Moisture Matters: Ground chicken can be lean, leading to a potentially dry meatloaf. Adding a bit of extra ketchup or a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
- Experiment with Toppings: While ketchup is classic, feel free to experiment with barbecue sauce, or even a mixture of mustard and honey for a different flavor profile.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch breadcrumbs for oats or crushed crackers. Both work well and add texture. If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or ground flaxseed. For a lighter meatloaf, use ground turkey instead of ground chicken.
Flavor Profile Changes
Adding vegetables can enhance the taste of your meatloaf. Try diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Mixing in different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella also adds creaminess. Change up herbs and spices too! For a different twist, use basil or thyme instead of oregano. Smoked paprika can be replaced with regular paprika for less heat.
Other Meatloaf Ideas
If you like turkey, try turkey meatloaf. It’s leaner but still tasty. For a vegetarian option, use lentils, beans, or quinoa. These ingredients provide great texture and flavor. You can add nuts or seeds for extra protein. Just mix and bake like the chicken meatloaf.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers in the fridge, first let the meatloaf cool. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Store it for up to three to four days in the fridge. Make sure the fridge is set at 40°F (4°C) or lower to ensure safety.
To keep meatloaf fresh, avoid leaving it out at room temperature. Always refrigerate promptly. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze meatloaf, first let it cool completely. Next, wrap it well in plastic wrap, then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also cut it into slices for easy portioning. Store it in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw the meatloaf in the fridge overnight. For reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave it, but the oven keeps it moist and tasty.
Shelf Life
Leftovers can last in the fridge for three to four days. After that, the taste and safety may decline. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
Signs of spoilage include a bad smell, discoloration, or a slimy texture. If you see any of these, it’s best to throw it away. Keeping an eye on leftovers ensures you enjoy your ground chicken meatloaf safely!
FAQs
How do I know when chicken meatloaf is fully cooked?
To check if your chicken meatloaf is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat.
You can also look for visual cues. A fully cooked meatloaf will be firm to the touch and have no pink inside. The juices should run clear, not pink.
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare meatloaf ahead of time. Mix the ingredients and shape it, then cover and refrigerate. You can do this up to a day in advance.
When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven. Reheating is easy, too! Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
What can I serve with ground chicken meatloaf?
There are many great sides to serve with meatloaf. Here are some popular options:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted carrots
- Green beans
You can also pair meatloaf with a fresh salad or crusty bread. These sides add color and balance to your meal.
In this article, we explored how to make a tasty ground chicken meatloaf. We discussed key ingredients like chicken, breadcrumbs, and flavor enhancers. You learned important steps for mixing and baking, plus tips for extra flavor. We shared variations and storage tips for your leftovers.
Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Use these tips to make your meatloaf unique and delicious! Enjoy your cooking journey and have fun with new flavor

Juicy Ground Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley to the bowl, mixing well.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture into the ground chicken mixture and mix with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.


