Introduction

Chicken meatloaf with cheddar and smoked bacon is a light yet flavorful dish that combines tender ground chicken with melty cheddar cheese and crispy smoked bacon. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying twist on a classic favorite. You will love the balance of savory bacon and creamy cheese wrapped in a juicy meatloaf.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf is easy to prepare with simple ingredients while delivering impressive taste. It cooks in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The combination of cheddar and bacon adds richness and texture without heaviness. It’s a versatile dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Origins

Meatloaf has deep roots in American home cooking, traditionally made with ground beef. This variation with chicken provides a lighter alternative, inspired by modern healthy cooking trends. The addition of smoked bacon and cheddar introduces layers of flavor commonly found in Southern and comfort food recipes.

Ingredients

600 g ground chicken
12 slices smoked bacon
1 egg
150 g cheddar cheese, diced
50 g breadcrumbs
2 shallots, finely chopped
Salt
Pepper

Instructions

1- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C)

2- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, shallots, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper

3- Divide the mixture into two equal parts; spread the first half into a rectangle on parchment paper

4- Evenly distribute the diced cheddar over the first layer

5- Cover with the second half of the meat mixture and seal the edges carefully

6- Wrap the meatloaf with smoked bacon slices, slightly overlapping them

7- Place the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper

8- Bake for 45 minutes until cooked through and bacon is crispy

9- Let rest under foil for 5 minutes before slicing and serving

Nutrition Information

Calories: approximately 500 kcal per serving
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 45g
Sodium: 850mg

Quick Facts

Preparation Time: 20 min
Cooking Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy)

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. This meatloaf can be frozen; thaw overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad. A glass of light red wine or sparkling water complements this savory dish well.

Common Mistakes

Not sealing the edges tightly can cause cheese to leak. Overcrowding bacon slices affects crispiness. Using too much breadcrumb makes the meatloaf dry. Skipping the resting time results in juices escaping when sliced.

Recipe Variations

Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with ground almond flour
Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or gouda instead of cheddar
Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or smoked paprika to the mixture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, turkey works well with similar cooking times.

Is it necessary to let the meatloaf rest?
Resting helps retain juices and improves slicing.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Chicken meatloaf with cheddar and smoked bacon offers a comforting yet lighter take on traditional meatloaf. Its combination of creamy cheese and crispy bacon makes every bite satisfying. Follow this recipe and tips to enjoy a delicious family meal that’s both easy and impressive.