If you’re searching for a deliciously moist, lighter alternative to traditional comfort food, look no further than this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf. Brimming with savory spices, juicy chicken, and a tangy-sweet tomato glaze, this recipe offers all the homey, nostalgic flavors of classic meatloaf with a better-for-you twist. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, not only for its incredible taste but also because it’s such a simple dish to pull together — and leftovers never last long!

Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf has a purpose — from building flavor, to binding everything together, to creating that perfect juicy texture. These pantry staples come together to make a truly memorable meal with very little fuss.

Ground Chicken (1.3 lbs): Lean and protein-packed, chicken keeps this meatloaf lighter, yet still satisfying.
Large Egg: Acts as the binder, ensuring your meatloaf holds together beautifully and stays moist.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds rich flavor and keeps the meatloaf extra tender.
Diced Onion (1/2 cup): Provides sweetness and a touch of crunch in every bite.
Panko Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Light and airy, they gently bind the loaf without making it dense.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Sneaks in a nutty, savory flavor and helps with browning.
Ketchup (1 tablespoon + 1/4 cup): Dual-acting for moisture in the loaf and a sweet tang in the glaze.
Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Lends sharpness and depth you’ll love.
Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons): Used in both the meat and glaze, it gives that signature umami punch.
Garlic Paste (1 tablespoon): Ensures every bite has a subtle but noticeable garlicky warmth.
Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into balance.
Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough for a gentle kick.
Chili Sauce (1 tablespoon): Blends into the glaze for a subtle heat and sweet-spicy finish.
Maple Syrup or Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of natural sweetness to the glaze that makes it irresistible.

How to Make Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Line a medium-sized baking pan with parchment paper — this not only ensures easy cleanup but also helps the meatloaf lift right out without sticking. I swear, this little bit of prep makes the world of difference when serving up those first hearty slices.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, cracked egg, olive oil, diced onion, panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, a tablespoon each of ketchup, Dijon, and Worcestershire sauce, plus the garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and mix with your hands! This gentle touch keeps the mixture airy and ensures everything’s evenly distributed, which is key for a juicy Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. With clean hands or a spatula, shape it into a loaf, about 10×6 inches. Center it in the pan so heat circulates evenly as it bakes. Pop it on the middle rack of your oven for 40–45 minutes. The aroma alone will let everyone know something special’s coming to the table!

Step 4: Whisk Up the Tomato Glaze

While your meatloaf is cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a spoonful of maple syrup or honey. This glaze is what sets the Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf apart — it lands the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, and bakes up shiny and inviting.

Step 5: Glaze, Bake Again, and Rest

Once the meatloaf is firm and nearly done, remove it from the oven and turn the heat up to 400°F. Spoon and spread your glaze across the top and sides so every inch glistens. Slide it back in for 7–10 minutes, letting the glaze set and caramelize slightly. Afterwards, let your beautiful loaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing — this short pause keeps your meatloaf tender and juicy, with perfect slices every time.

How to Serve Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf

Garnishes

I love showering the finished meatloaf with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for color and a little herbal pop. If you want to get extra fancy, a grating of Parmesan over the glossy glaze before serving adds savory drama and really ties the whole dish together.

Side Dishes

Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, garlicky green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a lighter touch, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette — the brightness balances the richness of the loaf and keeps dinner feeling fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the meatloaf extra-thick and tucking it into a wholesome grain bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of extra glaze on top. Leftover slices also make unbeatable sandwiches layered with arugula and pickles on toasted sourdough. In bite-sized cubes, this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf becomes a fun, kid-friendly party snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap slices individually for easy grab-and-go lunches, or keep the loaf whole and slice as needed to preserve juiciness.

Freezing

Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf is an excellent freezer meal. For best results, cool the loaf completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months — perfect for busy weeks when you need a wholesome dinner in a hurry.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until heated through (about 20 minutes should do it). For single slices, a microwave works well, but use a slightly damp paper towel to keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this meatloaf?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as an easy swap and delivers similar moisture and flavor. Just make sure to use ground poultry with a bit of fat to prevent dryness.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko handy, regular breadcrumbs, oat flour, or even crushed crackers will work in a pinch. Panko just gives a particularly light and tender crumb I love in this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The meatloaf will still be full of flavor and hold together nicely.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. The loaf should also feel firm and the juices should run clear when it’s done — always a safe and tasty result!

Can I prep and assemble the meatloaf in advance?

Definitely. You can mix and shape the Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf a day ahead; just cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Wait to add the glaze until the final steps for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a comforting dinner makeover, give this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf a try. It’s hearty, satisfying, and always wins rave reviews from everyone at my table. So gather your simple ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to discover a new favorite you’ll want to put on repeat!

Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food dish. Made with lean ground chicken and a savory tomato glaze, this meatloaf is juicy, tender, and perfect for a family dinner.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a medium-sized baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, olive oil, onion, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ketchup, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Form meatloaf: Transfer the chicken mixture to the lined baking pan and form it into a 10×6 loaf. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 40-45 minutes.
Make tomato glaze: Combine ketchup, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and maple syrup in a small bowl.
Glaze meatloaf: Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the tomato glaze evenly over it. Return to the oven and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes.
Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

You can customize the glaze by adding a touch of heat with some hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Feel free to add in some chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American