If you’re looking for a leaner, healthier twist on the classic meatloaf, this Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf recipe is just what you need. Packed with flavor but lighter on the calories and fat than traditional beef or pork meatloaf, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing that comfort food goodness we all love. Ground chicken is the star of the show here, giving the meatloaf a tender, juicy texture while still keeping it lean and packed with protein.
Whether you’re trying to get more lean protein into your meals, watching your fat intake, or just want something that feels cozy but won’t weigh you down, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s super easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to pair with whatever side dishes you love. After all, who doesn’t love a good meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans?
I’ve made this meatloaf countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a great weeknight dinner, and even better as leftovers the next day. Trust me—this healthier version will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lower in fat – Ground chicken is leaner than beef, so you get a juicy meatloaf with less fat.
- Packed with flavor – Herbs, spices, and a tangy glaze bring this meatloaf to life.
- Easy to make – A simple recipe with basic ingredients that come together in no time.
- Great for meal prep – Make ahead and store leftovers for quick meals during the week.
- Kid-friendly – The mild flavor and soft texture are perfect for picky eaters.
- Customizable – Add veggies, switch up the spices, or use a different glaze to suit your taste.
- Freezer-friendly – You can freeze individual slices or the whole loaf for later use.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to get started on this healthy meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken
(Lean ground chicken breast is ideal for a lower-fat option, but ground chicken thigh adds a bit more moisture and flavor.) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
(Whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a healthier option. If you’re low on breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even almond meal as a substitute.) - 1/4 cup milk
(You can use dairy or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free.) - 1 large egg
(This helps bind everything together and adds moisture.) - 1/2 onion, finely chopped
(For flavor and a little sweetness as it cooks.) - 2 cloves garlic, minced
(Garlic is a must—it brings so much depth to the flavor.) - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
(This gives the meatloaf that savory umami flavor we all love.) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
(Thyme pairs wonderfully with chicken and adds an herby note to the meatloaf.) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
(Adds a bit of Mediterranean flavor, enhancing the overall taste.) - 1/2 teaspoon salt
(For seasoning—don’t skip it!) - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
(Freshly ground black pepper gives a bit of spice and complexity.) - 1/2 cup ketchup
(For the glaze, but you can also use barbecue sauce if you prefer a smokier flavor.) - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
(This balances the tangy ketchup and adds a subtle sweetness.)
(Note: A complete list of ingredients with exact measurements is included in the instructions section below.)
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the meatloaf ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want everything to come together without compacting the meat too much.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet or sticky, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help firm it up.
Step 3: Shape the meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into the center of the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, smoothing the top. If using a loaf pan, make sure the meatloaf isn’t packed too tightly. You want some air to circulate around it so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. It will caramelize slightly as the meatloaf bakes, adding a delicious, slightly sweet layer on top.
Step 5: Bake the meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The glaze should be bubbly and slightly caramelized when it’s done. If you like a crispier glaze, you can broil the meatloaf for an extra 1–2 minutes at the end—just be sure to watch it closely!
Step 6: Rest and slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better and makes slicing easier. Once rested, slice into 8 portions and serve.
Helpful Tips
Moisture is key
Ground chicken is leaner than beef, so it can dry out more easily. The milk, breadcrumbs, and egg help keep it moist, but don’t skip any of those. They’re essential for a tender, juicy meatloaf.
Customize the flavors
Feel free to get creative with the herbs and spices. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or stir in some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you like your meatloaf with a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Glaze alternatives
If you’re not a fan of ketchup, try using barbecue sauce, mustard, or a combination of both. You could also experiment with a balsamic glaze or a mixture of soy sauce and honey for an Asian-inspired twist.
Add veggies for extra nutrition
Sneak some veggies into the meatloaf for extra flavor and nutrition. Finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers blend in well without altering the texture too much.
Meal prep it
This meatloaf makes excellent leftovers and freezes well. Bake the entire loaf and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, just microwave or bake until heated through.
Make it a full meal
Serve your healthy chicken meatloaf with roasted veggies, mashed sweet potatoes, or a simple side salad. It also pairs well with quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome, filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey will work just as well in this recipe. If you use lean turkey breast, you might want to add a little extra fat (like olive oil) to keep the meatloaf moist.
Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you can use rolled oats or almond meal for a gluten-free option. Both work great for holding the meatloaf together.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix everything together and shape the meatloaf, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option for prepping ahead of time.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze either the entire meatloaf (uncooked or cooked) or individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. When it reads 165°F (74°C) in the center, it’s ready. This ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked without being dry.
This Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf is the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something wholesome and satisfying without a ton of effort. The ground chicken keeps it light, while the glaze and seasoning keep it flavorful and comforting. I make this meatloaf at least once a month, and it’s always a winner. Whether you’re looking to cut back on fat or just want a fresher take on the classic, this recipe will hit the spot.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how delicious it tastes. And if you make any fun variations, don’t hesitate to share your ideas—I love seeing how others put their spin on my favorite recipes!
Healthy Ground Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken preferably dark meat for moisture
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs optional for extra texture
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped bell pepper
- ¼ cup grated carrot
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup low-sodium ketchup plus more for topping
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, oats, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, grated carrot, parsley, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape into a loaf and place it on the baking sheet.
- Top with ketchup: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a nice glaze.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meatloaf is golden brown on top.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey as a substitute for the chicken for a lighter version.
- To reduce carbs, you can skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour instead.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
