Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting meal packed with flavor and tenderness, this Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves Recipe is the perfect pick-me-up. These bite-sized meatloaves are wonderfully juicy, topped with a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. They’re simple to make yet utterly irresistible, offering the perfect balance of ground chicken, fresh herbs, and a luscious glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, their individual size means they cook quickly and look so charming on the plate.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients makes all the difference in crafting these Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves. Each component plays a vital role—adding moisture, flavor, or texture—resulting in the ultimate comfort food you’ll want on repeat.

• Butter or oil: Used for sautéing the veggies, adding richness and helping to soften onions and celery.
• Onion, celery, and garlic: These aromatics bring a fragrant base and subtle sweetness to the meatloaf mix.
• Ground chicken: The lean protein star that keeps the meatloaves tender and light.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Help absorb moisture and create a soft, yet structured texture.
• Milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatloaves juicy.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together firmly.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbaceous note and bursts of green color.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance all the flavors.
• Ketchup: The base of the glaze, lending sweet tanginess and vibrant color.
• Barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky depth to the glaze.
• Soy sauce: Brings umami and subtle saltiness to the glaze’s richness.
• Honey: Sweetens and helps create that irresistible caramelized finish.

How to Make Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat perfectly balances quick cooking with the golden caramelization we want on the glaze later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat butter or oil in a skillet and gently cook the minced onion, celery, and garlic until softened and just starting to turn golden. This step rounds out the flavor base, softening sharp edges and infusing subtle sweetness.

Step 3: Prepare the Breadcrumbs

Place panko breadcrumbs in a bowl and pour milk over them. Let them soak for a few minutes so they become moist and tender, which helps keep your meatloaves juicy instead of dry.

Step 4: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, minced parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to create a well-incorporated blend that holds together without becoming dense.

Step 5: Shape the Mini Meatloaves

Portion the mixture into small, uniform meatloaves—around ¼ cup each works well. Arrange them on a lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Start Baking

Place the tray in the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. This first bake firms up the shape and starts the cooking process, getting them ready for the glaze application.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the mini meatloaves bake, whisk together ketchup, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and honey. This glaze will provide that luscious sweet-savory coating which makes the dish truly unforgettable.

Step 8: Glaze and Finish Baking

Remove the meatloaves from the oven and brush them generously with the glaze mixture. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. This final burst of baking caramelizes the glaze and finishes cooking the chicken through.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the meatloaves cool for a few minutes on the tray before serving. This rest time allows juices to redistribute and makes handling easier.

How to Serve Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. A few sesame seeds lightly toasted on top enhance the glaze’s caramelized look while adding a subtle crunch.

Side Dishes

These mini meatloaves pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Steamy rice or buttered noodles also complement the rich and tangy glaze wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these mini meatloaves on slider buns with lettuce and pickles for casual party sliders. They also work wonderfully on a charcuterie board paired with dips like ranch or honey mustard for easy entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover mini glazed chicken meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay juicy and flavorful, making quick meals a breeze.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, freeze cooled meatloaves in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Properly stored, they’ll keep for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be swapped in with great results. Keep in mind beef might result in a richer flavor, while turkey is similar in leanness to chicken.

How can I make the meatloaves more moist?

Be sure not to overmix the meat, and make sure the breadcrumbs soak up the milk fully. Adding a bit of grated onion or even a spoonful of plain yogurt can also boost moisture.

Is there a way to make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture just right.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix everything and shape the meatloaves up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to ensure the glaze sticks well?

Brushing the glaze on after the first 15 minutes of baking allows it to adhere firmly and caramelize nicely without burning. Applying a second coat near the end if desired will give an even more intense flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Mini Glazed Chicken Meatloaves Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to comfort dishes thanks to its perfect combination of juicy, tender meat and that irresistible caramelized glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy every scrumptious moment just like I do!

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