Ham and Mild Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf

What happens when you combine the juicy tenderness of ground chicken, the savory depth of ham, and the creamy melt of mild cheddar cheese? You get Ham and mild cheddar Chicken Meatloaf—a recipe that’s quietly redefining comfort food across American kitchens. According to recent food trend data, chicken-based meatloaf recipes have seen a 30% rise in popularity over the last year, as home cooks seek healthier alternatives to traditional beef while still craving rich, satisfying flavors. But can a chicken meatloaf really be as moist and flavorful as its beefy counterpart? With this Ham and mild cheddar Chicken Meatloaf, the answer is a resounding yes. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for Sunday dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknight meals, and it’s about to become your new favorite.

Ingredients List

Crafting the ultimate Ham and mild cheddar Chicken Meatloaf requires just a handful of well-chosen ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground chicken: 2 lbs (use dark and white meat for best results)
• Ham: 1 cup diced (smoked or honey ham for added depth)
• Mild cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded (or try Colby Jack for a twist)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (panko or regular; try whole wheat for extra fiber)
• Milk: 1/3 cup (whole or 2%)
• Yellow onion: 1 small, finely diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Dijon mustard: 2 teaspoons (or yellow mustard for milder flavor)
• Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional for freshness)
• Ketchup or BBQ sauce: 1/3 cup, for glazing (optional)

Substitution suggestions:

• Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner version.
• Swap ham for turkey ham or omit for a chicken-and-cheese loaf.
• Try Swiss or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

This combination delivers a meatloaf that’s moist, cheesy, and packed with savory-salty pops from the ham.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Dice the ham, shred the cheese, and finely chop the onion, garlic, and parsley.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ham, cheddar cheese, diced onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
• Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 3: Shape and Glaze

• Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing in gently and smoothing the top.
• Brush with ketchup or BBQ sauce if desired for a glossy, flavorful glaze.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake in preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until the top is golden, the loaf is set, and a thermometer inserted in the center reads 165°F (74°C).
• Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.

Step 5: Serve

• Slice and serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite comfort food sides.

Actionable Tips:

• For a crispier edge, bake free-form on a lined baking sheet instead of a pan.
• Add a handful of thawed frozen peas or diced bell pepper for extra veggies.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutrition per serving (1/8 of loaf):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	27g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	15g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	630mg
Calcium	16% DV

Nutrition will vary with cheese, ham, and glaze choices.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Lower fat: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheddar; swap milk for unsweetened almond milk.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
• Reduced sodium: Choose low-sodium ham and cheese, and skip the glaze.
• Veggie boost: Add shredded zucchini or carrots for more fiber and moisture.

These swaps allow you to tailor the Ham and mild cheddar Chicken Meatloaf for nearly any dietary need.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.
• Light meal: Pair with a crisp garden salad.
• Next-day lunch: Use cold meatloaf slices in sandwiches with lettuce and tomato.
• Brunch: Top slices with a fried egg and avocado.

Personalize your plate with fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Just combine until ingredients are incorporated; overworking makes the loaf dense.
• Skipping the rest: Letting meatloaf rest after baking keeps it juicy.
• Undercooking or overcooking: Always check the center for doneness—165°F is your goal.
• Too much moisture: Too much milk or too few breadcrumbs can make it fall apart. Stick to the recipe ratios.

Follow these insights to achieve moist, flavorful meatloaf every time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers wrapped or in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, or microwave individual slices until hot.

Perfect for make-ahead meals or easy lunches all week.

Conclusion

Ham and mild cheddar Chicken Meatloaf is a modern comfort food classic—moist, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknights, crowd-pleasing for gatherings, and flexible for any diet. Try this recipe, leave your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more family-friendly, creative recipes!

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead?

Yes! Prepare and refrigerate the unbaked loaf up to 24 hours in advance, or bake and reheat.

2. Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely—Swiss, Colby Jack, or mozzarella are all great options.

3. What’s the best ham to use?

Smoked or honey ham adds depth, but deli ham or leftover baked ham works too.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, wrap slices well and freeze up to 2 months.