Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Looking for a twist on classic comfort food that still delivers big, bold flavors? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner! Imagine tender, juicy ground chicken blended with loads of fresh garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a hint of Italian herbs, all baked into a golden, savory loaf. It’s lighter than traditional beef meatloaf, but trust me: there’s no shortage of flavor here. Whether you’re serving it up for a family meal or prepping lunches for the week, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role—bringing moisture, savoriness, or a pop of color to the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need and why every component matters:
- Ground Chicken: The lean, tender base that keeps this meatloaf light but still juicy.
- Breadcrumbs: Absorbs moisture and binds everything together for the perfect slice.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a punch of savory, nutty flavor throughout every bite.
- Garlic (minced): The star ingredient, infusing the loaf with aromatic depth.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binder to help the loaf hold together.
- Milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (or dried): Brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of green.
- Onion Powder: Lends a mellow sweetness and gentle oniony flavor.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- Italian Seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs for extra Italian flair.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (optional): Melts into a gooey, golden topping if you like a cheesy finish.
- Extra Parmesan and Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Adds a beautiful and tasty finishing touch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan—this makes cleanup a breeze and helps your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf lift right out when it’s done. A little prep at the beginning goes a long way to ensuring a perfect loaf!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, milk, parsley, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so stop as soon as everything looks evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Transfer your mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into your loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide, pressing gently to hold its form. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible!
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you love a cheesy crust, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return it to the oven and let the cheese melt and bubble, adding an irresistible gooey finish.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Finish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Garnishes
For that final flourish, top each slice with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of bright green parsley. Not only does this add extra flavor, but it also makes the dish look irresistible and homey. A drizzle of good olive oil or a dash of cracked black pepper can also be lovely.
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The richness of the meatloaf is balanced perfectly by something fresh and vibrant—or go for buttery noodles if you’re feeling extra cozy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the meatloaf thick and layering it onto toasted sandwich rolls with a smear of marinara and extra cheese for a hearty lunch. Or, serve mini slices on a platter with toothpicks and a side of herby yogurt dip for a fun appetizer twist at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors seem to get even better as they meld together overnight.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. This helps preserve the moisture and keeps the cheese melty. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven yields the tastiest results.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe and delivers similar flavor and texture. It’s a great way to switch things up if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf gluten-free?
It can be! Just swap the regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety, and double-check that your Parmesan and seasonings are gluten-free as well.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
What can I do if my meatloaf mixture seems too wet?
If the mixture feels too loose to shape, add an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs. The key is to mix gently and only add a little at a time until it holds its form.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the meatloaf up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if it’s going into the oven cold.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s easy, comforting, and just a bit special, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Give it a try and watch it disappear—whether you’re serving family, friends, or just yourself, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and moist main course that combines ground chicken with aromatic garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. Easy to prepare and bake, it offers a comforting yet lighter twist on traditional meatloaf, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping and Garnish
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
- Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, milk, parsley, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form to promote even cooking and an attractive presentation.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures it is safely cooked.
- Add Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow it to melt and become golden.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing; this helps retain juices and improves texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for added flavor and visual appeal. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Serve this meatloaf alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- The recipe also works well with ground turkey as a substitute for chicken.
- Leftover meatloaf slices make delicious sandwiches or convenient meal-prep portions for the week.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
