Chicken Meat Loaf
A flavorful chicken meatloaf with barbecue sauce, combining savory ground chicken, vegetables, and a smoky glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chicken, diced onion, diced green pepper, bread crumbs, egg, and milk until well combined.
- Mold the mixture into a loaf shape in the middle of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Pour 1 inch of water into the pan around the loaf.
- Cover the top of the loaf with barbecue sauce.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider incorporating grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture. If you don't have barbecue sauce, a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also experiment with seasonings, like adding Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a warm bread roll. This dish pairs beautifully with Oven Barbecued Chicken Wings Or Small Drumsticks for a fun family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, cover and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Meat Loaf contains roughly 952 calories, with 26g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still yield a delicious meatloaf. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as turkey can be leaner, and you may want to add a bit more milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep it moist.
What can I add to make the meatloaf more flavorful?
Consider adding minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to enhance the flavor of your meatloaf. Additionally, mixing in some grated cheese can add richness. A splash of hot sauce can also give it a nice kick if you enjoy spice.
Can I freeze the chicken meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).