Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf: The Best Recipe for Spicy Comfort Food

Buffalo chicken meatloaf is the ultimate mashup of tender, juicy comfort food and the irresistible kick of Buffalo wing flavor. This recipe delivers perfectly moist ground chicken combined with tangy Buffalo sauce, a hint of creamy blue cheese, and a crispy bacon topping for texture.

Whether you’re cooking for game day, a weeknight family dinner, or meal prep, this meatloaf is a must-try. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with protein, keeping your meal both flavorful and wholesome.

What makes this dish extra special is its balance of bold flavors and creamy touches without over-complication. You’ll love how simple it is to bring together, and trust me, your family is going to request this again and again.

Let’s dive into what inspired this creation and how you can easily whip up the best buffalo chicken meatloaf recipe right at home.

My Inspiration for This Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf

I first experimented with healthy buffalo chicken meatloaf when my craving for spicy wings clashed with my need for a hearty comfort meal that could feed a crowd. I wanted all the punchy flavors of Buffalo sauce but in a dish with more substance.

After some trial and error—adjusting the balance of celery, creamy blue cheese, and a touch of sweetness to complement the heat—I landed on what I think is the easy buffalo chicken loaf you’ve been waiting for.

This ground chicken meatloaf with Buffalo sauce has now become a staple for my game-day gatherings and Sunday dinners. The crispy bacon topping adds smokiness, while the blue cheese sprinkled on top ties everything together.

Every bite is packed with flavor, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull off. Let’s get into the recipe details so you can enjoy this at your own table!

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf

• 1 cup dry whole wheat bread crumbs
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese, divided
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 6 bacon strips
• 1/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce
• 4 teaspoons prepared mustard
• 4 teaspoons honey
• Additional chopped celery (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, celery, onion, eggs, 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce, minced garlic, and pepper. Stir in 3/4 cup of the blue cheese.
3. Add the ground chicken to the bowl and gently mix the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf dense.
4. Shape the mixture into an 8×4-inch loaf and place it on the prepared baking pan.
5. Lay the bacon strips over the top of the loaf, tucking the edges underneath for a snug fit.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce, mustard, and honey to create the glaze. Spoon this mixture evenly over the bacon-covered meatloaf.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads 165°F. The bacon should be crispy, and the glaze should have caramelized slightly.
8. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese over the top and, if desired, garnish with extra chopped celery for a fresh crunch.
9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure it holds together well.

My Chef Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix. Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender. Overworking the mixture can make it tough.
• Use a meat thermometer. Cooking to exactly 165°F ensures the meatloaf is safe to eat and stays juicy.
• Customize the spice level. Love extra heat? Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the glaze or use a spicier Buffalo wing sauce.
• Prep ahead. Combine the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just glaze and bake when you’re ready.
• Storage tips: For leftovers, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap to lock in moisture and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing options: Freeze fully cooked slices or the entire loaf for up to 4 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf FAQs

Can I make this recipe healthier?

Yes! For healthy buffalo chicken meatloaf, swap the bacon for turkey bacon, use reduced-fat blue cheese, and opt for a sugar-free wing sauce or honey substitute in the glaze.

What should I serve with buffalo chicken meatloaf?

Pair this flavorful meatloaf with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even classic mashed potatoes to balance the spice. Sweet potato fries also work wonderfully.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or shredded cheddar for a milder option.

How do I know the meatloaf is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This is the safest way to ensure doneness.

Is this the best buffalo chicken meatloaf recipe for meal prep?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prepping! Slice the cooked meatloaf into portions, pack them into airtight containers, and store in the fridge or freezer for quick, protein-packed meals.

Ready to Make This Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf?

If you’re craving bold flavors, creamy textures, and a little spicy kick, this recipe is guaranteed to wow your taste buds. This buffalo chicken meatloaf has everything you need for a satisfying meal, whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—are you trying this recipe for dinner or meal prep? Share your results or tag me on social media with your creations. Let’s bring excitement back to chicken dinners together!