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Cozy Chicken Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze – Best Easy Recipe

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This cozy chicken meatloaf with brown sugar glaze is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that features a sweet and savory glaze and a moist, tender interior. Perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you need a culinary hug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground chicken (93% lean)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko works, crush slightly; use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole milk, 2%, or oat milk)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center. If using a glass loaf pan, reduce temperature to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Prepare the glaze first: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne if using. Set aside.
  3. Grate the onion: Grate 1/2 cup of yellow onion on the large holes of a box grater. Do not drain the liquid.
  4. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup milk, 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and the grated onion with its juices.
  5. Add the dry ingredients: Add 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to the bowl. Stir until just combined. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the ground chicken: Add 2 pounds of ground chicken to the bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Shape the meatloaf: Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil or cooking spray. Press the meat mixture evenly into the pan, ensuring no air pockets. Alternatively, shape into a free-form loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Apply the glaze: Pour about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf and spread evenly with a spatula. Reserve the rest.
  9. Bake for 45 minutes: Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
  10. Apply the second layer of glaze: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spoon or brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center.
  11. Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cutting board, slice, and serve.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat. Grate the onion instead of chopping for moisture. Let the breadcrumbs soak before adding meat. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Layer the glaze for a caramelized crust. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, comfort food, easy meatloaf, ground chicken recipe

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