Chicken BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Introduction
This chicken meatloaf is a lighter twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Packed with savory seasonings and a tangy BBQ glaze, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. dried oregano
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 2 Tbsp. BBQ sauce, divided
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
- Step 3: Add the ground chicken to the bowl and mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the chicken mixture to the parchment and shape it into a loaf about 6 inches by 3 inches and 1½ inches high. Brush the top, sides, and ends with 1 tablespoon of the BBQ sauce.
- Step 5: Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and spread the remaining tablespoon of BBQ sauce on top.
- Step 6: Return to the oven and increase the heat to 450°F. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 8-10 more minutes.
- Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes, until the temperature reaches 165°F. Then transfer to a cutting board, slice, and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, you can add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onion or bell pepper to the mixture before baking.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version.
- Try swapping BBQ sauce for ketchup or a tomato-based glaze for a different flavor.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and will yield similar results in texture and flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F before resting to ensure it is safe to eat.
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Chicken BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Meatloaf Recipe offers a deliciously tender and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf using ground chicken. Seasoned with aromatic spices and finished with a tangy BBQ sauce glaze, it’s a satisfying and easy oven-baked meal perfect for any dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F to prepare it for baking the meatloaf.
- Mix Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Stir these ingredients well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add Ground Chicken: Incorporate the ground chicken into the bowl and gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Shape Meatloaf: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the chicken mixture onto the paper and shape it into a loaf roughly 6 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 1.5 inches high. Brush the top, sides, and ends with 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce.
- First Bake: Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for 30 minutes to allow it to set and begin cooking through.
- Apply Glaze and Increase Heat: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce on top. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F and return the meatloaf to bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute and the internal temperature to reach 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy. Then transfer to a cutting board, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture as it can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.
- The resting time is crucial to keep the meatloaf moist and ensure food safety.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness accurately.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken meatloaf, BBQ meatloaf, ground chicken recipe, easy meatloaf, oven-baked meatloaf
