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    Home » Recipes » Chicken and Poultry

    Ground Chicken Meatloaf - Amazingly Delicious Recipe!

    UPDATED Apr 20, 2021 · PUBLISHED Mar 15, 2021 BY Marjory Pilley · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    Platter with chicken meatloaf with title of recipe.

    This Ground Chicken Meatloaf recipe is fantastically cheesy, healthy and easy to make! Turn it into a loaf, meatloaf muffins or meatballs. Any way you shape it, you'll LOVE this healthy comfort dinner that's low in carbs too.

    This recipe is not boring, bland or traditional! Much like Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf Cups, this chicken loaf will change the way you feel about meatloaf! It's also the delicious filling in Chicken Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers.

    You'll love this recipe because:

    • It's healthy and low-carb.
    • It takes minutes to prep and the rest is hands-off time.
    • Shape it into "muffins" or meatballs and bake in under 20 minutes.
    • It freezes beautifully…before or after you make it. We know because we made this one all the time at our make-ahead meal stores.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients and Substitutions
    • How to Add Vegetables to Meatloaf
    • Directions with Pictures
    • Shaping Options and Cook Times
    • Storage and Freezer Guidelines
    • More Chicken Meatloaf Recipes
    • 📋 Recipe

    Ingredients and Substitutions

    Pictured below are the basic ingredients that are mixed into ground chicken.

    Graphic with ingredients to make the recipe.
    • Ground Chicken - Ground chicken that is not labelled as breast meat is ideal since it will be a little firmer. You can use ground chicken breast, but it is very soft before it cooks and until it sets. Either way, the finished dish does not release much fat. Ground turkey and ground beef will also work in this recipe.
    • Oatmeal - This is ideal for binding and absorbing the juices in meatloaf. As you can see from the pictures, you can't tell that we used old fashioned rolled oats. Quick cooking oats and breadcrumbs may be substituted.
    • Ketchup - To make this recipe even lower in carbs use a sugar-free brand.
    • Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheeses - The cheese not only holds things together, but also makes it out of this world delicious. Use other shredded cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

    How to Add Vegetables to Meatloaf

    Meatloaf is the perfect vessel for sneaking in healthy vegetables and other tasty ingredients that will add a punch of flavor. Here are some ideas we've offered at our stores for a 1 pound loaf:

    • Pureed carrot, cauliflower or other vegetable. Replace ¼ to ½ cup of the ketchup.
    • Add additional chopped vegetables, such as diced peppers or celery. Add about ¼ cup without changing anything or reduce some of the onion to add more.
    • Stack, roll and cut fresh spinach leaves. Add up to ⅓ of a cup without changing anything.
    • Herbs, such as basil and oregano pair nicely with this recipe. Add about ¼ cup fresh basil (1-2 teaspoon dried) or 1 Tablespoon oregano (1 teaspoon dried).

    If you're new to stealthy healthy cooking, then start with a small amount and add a little more the next time you make it. It will help you to gauge how everyone likes it and how it will work in the recipe.

    Directions with Pictures

    This ground chicken meatloaf is easy to make. But, to get the very best result it's important to follow a few tips so that the ingredients are evenly disbursed throughout the loaf and it doesn't get tough!

    Picture Collage of 4 steps to make the recipe.
    1. First, mix the dry ingredients and cheeses together in a large bowl.
    2. Next mix in ketchup and egg.
    3. Last, add the ground chicken until it's fully incorporated. But, don't overmix or it toughens the chicken!
    4. Add the meat mixture to a loaf pan, spread a little ketchup over the top, and cook for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F. (See more shaping options below)

    We highly recommend using a meat thermometer to so that the meatloaf is moist and cooks to the perfect doneness. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

    Chicken loaf on platter with bowl of mashed potatoes behind it.

    Shaping Options and Cook Times

    There are quite a few options for shaping the chicken meatloaf mixture. The cook time will vary.

    Numbered collage of 4 ways to shape mixture for meatloaf.
    1. Standard loaf - A 1-pound or 2-pound tin can be used. (We love this loaf pan by Chicago Metallic which lets you easily lift out the loaf and leave the juices behind.) Or, you can shape it into a uniform loaf by hand and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. A 2 pound loaf will take a little over an hour.
    2. Mini loaf - Use a specially made tin or a shape by hand as pictured. The cook time is almost cut in half. 1 pound will makes 3 mini loaves.
    3. Meatloaf muffins - Press the mixture into a cupcake tin. Cook time will be about 20 minutes. Makes 12. You can even make 36 of bites in a mini muffin tin!
    4. Meatballs - Use an ice cream scoop to make ¼ cup meatballs. These are done in about 15 minutes. Makes 12.

    Storage and Freezer Guidelines

    • Refrigerator - Place leftover meatloaf in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat meatloaf in the microwave until warmed through.
    • Make-Ahead and Freeze - Prepare meatloaf and freeze before or after cooking.
      • For an uncooked loaf - Encase pan in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place in a resealable freezer bag. Label and store in the refrigerator for 3-6 months. We normally recommend 2 months for freezer foods. However, uncooked meatloaf will keep extremely well if packaged tightly.
      • For cooked loaf - store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
      • When ready to eat - Move meatloaf to the refrigerator to defrost overnight and cook according to the directions.
    Slices of chicken meatloaf on a platter next to a bowl of cauliflower mash.

    More Chicken Meatloaf Recipes

    All of these delicious dinner recipes can be made into a loaf too!

    • Turkey Meatloaf Muffins with Salsa
    • Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf Cups Recipe
    • Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

    Did you make this recipe?
    Please leave a rating and tell us how you liked it!

    📋 Recipe

    Slices of ground chicken meatloaf on a platter.

    Ground Chicken Meatloaf

    This Ground Chicken Meatloaf recipe is fantastically cheesy, healthy and easy to make! Turn it into a loaf, meatloaf muffins or meatballs. Any way you shape it, you'll LOVE this healthy comfort dinner that's low in carbs too.
    5 from 11 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 45 minutes
    Total Time: 1 hour
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 252kcal
    Author: Marjory Pilley

    Equipment

    • Meatloaf Pan

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup oatmeal or breadcrumbs
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • ½ cup diced onion about ½ medium-sized onion
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup ketchup Plus 1 Tablespoon more to glaze the top. Use sugar-free for even lower-carb result
    • 1 egg lightly beaten
    • 1 pound ground chicken

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 F.
    • Add oatmeal, cheeses, diced onion, and salt to a large bowl and mix to combine.
    • Add ketchup and egg to the bowl and mix.
    • Add ground chicken and mix just until combined. Don't overmix which may cause the chicken to toughen.
    • Press mixture into a loaf pan a spread about 1 Tablespoon of ketchup over the top. (See other shaping options and cook times below.)
    • Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F. We suggest using a digital thermometer.
    • Allow cooked chicken loaf to rest for about 5-10 minutes, then slice and enjoy!

    Notes

    You'll find more expert tips and step by step pictures above!
    Other Shaping Options
    1. Standard loaf - A 1-pound or 2-pound tin can be used. Or, you can shape it into a uniform loaf by hand and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. A 2 pound loaf will take a little over an hour.
    2. Mini loaf - Use a specially made tin or a shape by hand. The cook time is almost cut in half. 1 pound will makes 3 mini loaves.
    3. Meatloaf muffins - Press the mixture into a cupcake tin. Cook time will be about 20 minutes. Makes 12. You can make 36 of bites in a mini muffin tin!
    4. Meatballs - Use an ice cream scoop to make ¼ cup meatballs. These are done in about 15 minutes. Makes 12.
    Storage and Make-Ahead Freeze
    • Refrigerator - Place leftover meatloaf in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat meatloaf in the microwave until warmed through.
    • Make-Ahead and Freeze - Prepare meatloaf and freeze before or after cooking.
      • For an uncooked loaf - Encase pan in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place in a resealable freezer bag. Label and store in the refrigerator for 3-6 months. We normally recommend 2 months for freezer foods. However, uncooked meatloaf will keep extremely well if packaged tightly.
      • For cooked loaf - store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
      • When ready to eat - Move meatloaf to the refrigerator to defrost overnight and cook according to the directions.
    Grab 5 Low-Carb Saucesand get more easy, healthy recipes! JOIN HERE

    Nutrition

    Calories: 252kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 114mg | Sodium: 677mg | Potassium: 526mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 341IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 203mg | Iron: 1mg
    Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer

    More Chicken Recipes

    • Herb Crusted Turkey Tenderloins
    • Easy Leftover Chicken Cakes
    • Alice Springs Chicken - Copycat Recipe
    • Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Soup
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    Comments

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      Recipe Rating




    1. KTLyn

      March 15, 2021 at 2:41 pm

      5 stars
      My kids loved this recipe. We doubled it to have leftovers for sandwiches and to crumble into spaghetti. We did not change anything and will definitely make it again.

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        March 15, 2021 at 2:43 pm

        Thanks for circling back to comment. I'm so glad you enjoyed it.

        Reply
    2. Nini

      March 15, 2021 at 4:06 pm

      5 stars
      This sounds delicious!
      Wondering if it’s possible to air fry?
      Thanks!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        March 16, 2021 at 8:35 am

        You can! (And, I'd love a tester...hint, hint.) Form the loaf and cook at about 390 °F. Put down some parchment paper to reduce the mess. The length of time will vary depending upon the size of the loaf, so have your instant read thermometer ready. A smaller size mini loaf may only take about 20-25 minutes. Please let me know if you try it!

        Reply
    3. Chloe

      May 10, 2021 at 11:23 am

      5 stars
      I loved it. Any chance this recipe works (or can be adapted) for the crockpot? Thanks!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        May 10, 2021 at 4:18 pm

        I'm so glad you enjoyed it! It should work. Line the crock with aluminum foil. Try cooking for about 6 hours on low or 3 on high. I'd love to know if you try it!

        Reply
    4. Judith

      September 27, 2021 at 4:44 pm

      I have not made this yet, just came across the recipe, but it sounds fabulous. I love that it is flexible (more veg), low carb, and gluten free when I use certified gluten free oats. I look forward to making it, thanks so much!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        September 28, 2021 at 7:56 am

        Thanks for our comment. I hope you enjoy it!

        Reply
        • Judith

          October 06, 2021 at 7:26 pm

          5 stars
          I made this recipe tonight and was very happy with the results. The flavor was great and it makes a lot of servings with only one pound of chicken. Thanks!

          Reply
          • Marjory Pilley

            October 07, 2021 at 7:25 am

            I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

            Reply
    5. Janet

      March 23, 2022 at 2:29 pm

      5 stars
      This was my first try making meatloaf, and it was absolutely delicious!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        March 24, 2022 at 8:21 am

        I'm so happy you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing a review.

        Reply
    6. Debi

      May 05, 2022 at 10:36 pm

      I never liked meatloaf until I made this recipe and I LOVE IT, I have to double the recipe so there are leftovers. I'm gonna make the meatballs next time. I have passed the recipe to my cousin and she said it sounded delicious.

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        May 07, 2022 at 9:54 am

        I’m so happy you like. Thank you so much for your kind review!

        Reply
    7. Jacqueline

      May 19, 2022 at 7:57 pm

      I substituted barbecue sauce for the ketchup because my family isnt keen on ketchup in/on meatloaf. I also added some diced yellow and green peppers and it came out great! Will definitely be using this recipe again❤️

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        May 20, 2022 at 7:42 am

        It sounds fantastic! Thanks for sharing.

        Reply
    8. Allie

      May 29, 2022 at 10:56 am

      5 stars
      This recipe pleasantly surprised me. It is delicious. I left the salt out because I'm on a low sodium diet as well as low carb and I never missed the salt.

      Reply
    9. T Duffney

      June 07, 2022 at 4:07 pm

      Is the nutrition information per serving? How many ounces per serving?

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        June 09, 2022 at 8:35 am

        The nutritional estimate is per serving. I don’t know the ounces in a serving.

        Reply
    10. Cassandra

      June 08, 2022 at 8:09 pm

      5 stars
      Was a little skeptical making meatloaf with ground chicken, but holy moly, it was DELICIOUS! I didn’t have mozzarella cheese so I substituted sharp cheddar instead. The consistency was a little off using cheddar but it didn’t ruin things for me. My wife and I ate the entire loaf in 15 minutes. Going to make this again and again. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        June 09, 2022 at 8:36 am

        I’m so happy you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    11. Rodger J.

      August 16, 2022 at 4:53 am

      5 stars
      This looks really good-going to try it today-Thanks!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        August 16, 2022 at 7:39 am

        I hope you enjoy it!

        Reply
    12. Terri

      September 09, 2022 at 12:25 am

      Can I put this in an oven bag a d also can I not use ketchup when cooking it

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        September 09, 2022 at 8:20 am

        Hi! I would not recommend an oven bag for this recipe. It will be very moist without it. You definitely replace ketchup with an alternative sauce like a thick salsa, bbq sauce, or another ketchup alternative. It does require some sort of wet ingredient.

        Reply
    13. John Hellyer

      October 25, 2022 at 4:49 pm

      5 stars
      I made a triple recipe so I could freeze some for later. Excellent recipe. THANK YOU

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        October 25, 2022 at 5:15 pm

        I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    14. Cyndi

      January 11, 2023 at 12:04 am

      5 stars
      Love this recipe. A new favorite.

      Reply
    15. NHO

      January 29, 2023 at 4:48 pm

      5 stars
      Excellent recipe! I realized at the last moment that my ketchup bottle was all but empty (gasp!) so I substituted with Stubbs barbecue sauce (all other ingredients the same). I was worried that the barbecue sauce might overwhelm the flavor, but it didn't at all. Absolutely delicious, and I'll most certainly keep this in the dinner rotation. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        January 30, 2023 at 9:15 am

        BBQ is a fantastic variation. Thanks for sharing!

        Reply

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