Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that’s anything but ordinary, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy ground chicken blends beautifully with the sharpness of fresh garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a meatloaf that’s tender, moist, and bursting with savory goodness. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something homemade and wholesome, this recipe promises a deliciously satisfying meal every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is simple but crucial, working together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy milk that keeps things moist to the fragrant parsley that adds a pop of freshness, every element plays a starring role.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken: The lean protein base that’s tender and mild, soaking up all the delicious flavors around it.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian): These act as the perfect binder, keeping the meatloaf from turning dense and adding a subtle texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that makes this meatloaf irresistibly savory.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and tender, ensuring every bite is juicy.
- 1 large egg: Another binding agent that helps hold the loaf together while adding richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatic ingredient that gives the meatloaf its signature punch and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Sprinkles in subtle sweetness and complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings a hint of Tuscan flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the delicate chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat for balance.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and color that brighten the meatloaf beautifully.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or more Parmesan for topping (optional): A melty, cheesy finish that adds richness and a golden crust.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan lightly. This prep helps prevent sticking and ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly, forming a perfect crust.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. It’s important to mix just until the ingredients come together—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a tender one.
Step 3: Shape and Top
Shape the mixture into a loaf on your baking sheet or press it into your loaf pan. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan to create a gooey, golden layer of cheese that will bake up wonderfully.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your meatloaf for 45 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s safely cooked but still juicy and tender. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will absolutely captivate everyone at the table.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and the meatloaf even more moist. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely, vibrant touch.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley adds a bright color and subtle herbal note that complements the richness of the meatloaf beautifully. For an extra layer of flavor, you might drizzle a light garlic butter or a spoonful of tomato sauce to enhance each bite.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The garlic and Parmesan flavors balance nicely with lighter sides that refresh the palate without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn leftovers into mini sliders with crusty rolls and a smear of pesto or aioli. You can also slice the meatloaf and serve it over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for an easy weeknight dinner that feels special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals, whether reheated or turned into sandwiches.
Freezing
You can freeze the meatloaf either as a whole or in individual slices for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out so every bite tastes just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work just as well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors. Just keep an eye on cooking times as Turkey can sometimes dry out faster.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Minced garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch; use about 1/2 teaspoon for 3 cloves of fresh garlic. The flavor won’t be as vibrant but still nicely aromatic.
Is it okay to omit the cheese topping?
Yes, the meatloaf is delicious without it, but the cheese adds a lovely texture and flavor contrast that really elevates the dish.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones, or use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats if you prefer.
How do I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is safe and juicy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a homemade meatloaf, and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe strikes the perfect balance between healthful and indulgent. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to share with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how irresistible this twist on a classic meatloaf can be!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic meatloaf, combining lean ground chicken with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it bakes to a juicy, tender loaf topped with melted mozzarella or extra Parmesan, and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or more Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the texture tender.
- Shape Meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it evenly into the loaf pan.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan cheese to add a creamy, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist result.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve warm, paired nicely with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, incorporate a tablespoon of pesto into the meat mixture before baking.
- This meatloaf pairs well with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers make delicious sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
