CAROTE 21pcs Pots and Pans Set Nonstick, Cookware Set Black Granite Induction Kitchen
Buy Now →In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding a recipe that’s both comforting and easy to prepare can feel like discovering culinary gold. Enter the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf—a delightful spin on the classic meatloaf that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. This dish combines the lean goodness of ground chicken with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional beef meatloaf.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe fits perfectly into a hectic schedule.
- Family-Friendly Flavors: The savory blend of garlic and Parmesan appeals to both kids and adults, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
- Healthier Option: Using ground chicken reduces the fat content without compromising on taste, aligning with health-conscious choices.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg, minced garlic, diced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet, shaping it into a loaf.
4. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, mix together grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, melted butter, and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Apply the Topping
Spread the topping mixture evenly over the shaped meatloaf.
6. Bake
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and makes slicing easier.
Helpful Tips
- Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the ingredients just until combined ensures a tender meatloaf. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps keep it moist and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Customize the Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding small cubes of mozzarella to the meat mixture.
Conservation and Storage
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts.
- Freezing: Want to meal prep? Wrap the unbaked meatloaf in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as instructed.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F for about 15 minutes to maintain texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts until warm. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat Swap: Prefer turkey? Swap the ground chicken for ground turkey for a similar texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Extra Veggies: Sneak in finely chopped zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use dairy-free butter for the topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield a similar texture and flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the loaf pan, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
A Flavor-Packed Meatloaf to Keep in Your Recipe Box
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining familiar flavors with a leaner protein choice. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to please both picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to comfort food!
Want more easy and delicious meals? Check out our best weeknight dinner recipes here!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Comforting Twist for Busy Weeknights
Description
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is calling your name! 🍗🧄 This dish takes the comfort of a traditional meatloaf and elevates it with juicy ground chicken, melted mozzarella, and a golden, crispy garlic-Parmesan topping. It’s tender, cheesy, and bursting with garlic goodness—everything you want in a satisfying weeknight meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken 🍗
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well) 🍞
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1 egg, lightly beaten 🥚
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced 🧅
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 🌱
- 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 🍞
- 2 tbsp melted butter 🧈
- 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✅ Ground chicken
✅ Breadcrumbs
✅ Parmesan cheese
✅ Mozzarella cheese
✅ Beaten egg
✅ Minced garlic
✅ Diced onion
✅ Italian seasoning
✅ Salt & pepper
✅ Chopped parsley
Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or the meatloaf may turn out dense!
Transfer the mixture to your loaf pan or baking sheet and shape it into a loaf with your hands or a spatula.
In a small bowl, mix together:
✅ Grated Parmesan
✅ Breadcrumbs
✅ Melted butter
✅ Minced garlic
Spread this delicious topping evenly over the meatloaf, pressing it down gently so it sticks.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The top should be golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.