First of all — thank you so much for stopping by today. 🙏 Whether you’re a weeknight warrior, a meal-prep aficionado, or simply someone on the hunt for comfort food with a healthy twist, you’re in for a treat.
This Healthy Chicken Meatloaf is everything you want: tender, juicy, packed with flavor, and guilt-free. I’m so excited to share this recipe because it’s one of those dishes that’s surprisingly easy to pull together yet tastes like you fussed over it for hours. And yes — leftovers taste even better. 😍
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Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Healthy Chicken Meatloaf
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Chicken meatloaf often gets a bad rap — too dry, too bland, too “meh.” Not this version. This loaf is:
- Moist and tender, thanks to clever ingredient choices.
- Protein-packed, making it perfect for fitness-focused meals.
- Full of comforting, savory flavors with herbs and spices that truly shine.
- Family-friendly — kids love it, adults appreciate the healthy twist.
- Meal-prep ready, ideal for easy weekday lunches and dinners.
The taste? Imagine a cozy Sunday dinner… but lighter and brighter. It’s juicy, subtly herby, with a touch of sweetness from the glaze on top. Anything but boring!!
Benefits of Healthy Chicken Meatloaf
- Lower in fat compared to traditional beef meatloaf.
- Rich in protein, which keeps you full longer.
- Easy to customize with veggies, herbs, or different glazes.
- Freezes beautifully for batch cooking lovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat for extra fiber)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus more for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional but adds a beautiful sheen)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional but helpful)
- Meat thermometer (recommended for perfect cooking)
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Add-ins: Grated zucchini or carrot for extra veggies.
- Breadcrumb swaps: Oats or almond flour if gluten-free.
- Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and omit Parmesan.
- Amp up the flavor: Add smoked paprika or Italian seasoning.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Meatloaf
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix to keep it tender!
Step 3: Shape & Bake
Press the mixture gently into the loaf pan. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Glaze
Mix the glaze ingredients (ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and honey). After 30 minutes, spread the glaze on top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Finish Baking
Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest & Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and helps it hold together.
What to Serve with Chicken Meatloaf
Pair this wholesome loaf with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Side salad with vinaigrette for freshness
- Quinoa or brown rice for a hearty addition
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Every Time
- Don’t overmix — it can make the loaf tough.
- Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Let it rest — trust me, slicing too soon leads to crumbles.
- Double the glaze if you’re a sauce lover (no judgment!).
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Meal prep bonus: Makes great meatloaf sandwiches the next day. Yum!
General Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Serves: 6-8 slices
- Cuisine: American comfort food with a healthy spin
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and is just as lean.
What makes this meatloaf moist?
Milk, egg, and finely chopped onions add moisture. Plus, not overbaking is key.
Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check condiments to make it gluten-free.
Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but I highly recommend it for added flavor and moisture.
Conclusion
There you have it — a Healthy Chicken Meatloaf that’s weeknight-friendly, meal-prep approved, and family-tested. ❤️ You’ll adore how simple yet satisfying this recipe is, and I can’t wait for you to try it. The aroma alone will have everyone gathered around the table!
If you loved this, you might also enjoy:
- Cozy Vegan Chickpea Noodle Soup 🥣 (Comfort in a Bowl!)
- High-Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches That Actually Keep You Full
- join un in our facebook group
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Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approx.)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g