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Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

4.8 from 100 reviews

This Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf combines lean ground chicken with sharp cheddar cheese and a mild spicy kick from jalapeños, all topped with a smoky, sweet chipotle glaze. It’s a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, perfect for a comforting and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 ¼ cup fresh grated extra sharp cheddar
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (seeds removed)
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium shallot, finely diced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro

Chipotle Glaze

  • 1 ½ tablespoon Adobo sauce from canned chilis in Adobo (7 oz can)
  • 2 tablespoon honey
  • ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a baking dish liberally with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, add all the meatloaf ingredients. Use your hands to combine them thoroughly but be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and shape it into a long, uniform loaf. Leave about a 1-inch gap on both long ends of the pan to allow even cooking.
  5. Prepare and Apply Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the chipotle glaze ingredients until combined. Pour the glaze evenly over the meatloaf and brush it to coat thoroughly. Excess glaze will remain in the pan and will be used for basting later.
  6. Bake Initial Phase: Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for 25 minutes to allow the meat to start cooking and the flavors to meld.
  7. Baste and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush it with the remaining glaze in the pan to create a thick, caramelized coating. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to let juices redistribute, ensuring moist slices.

Notes

  • Removing jalapeño seeds reduces heat; leave seeds in for spicier meatloaf.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain moisture and improves texture.
  • The excess glaze in the pan thickens during baking and adds flavor when used for basting.

Keywords: Chipotle chicken meatloaf, cheddar chicken meatloaf, spicy meatloaf, ground chicken recipes, easy meatloaf, baked meatloaf, chipotle glaze