This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. It’s made with tender ground chicken, lots of garlic, and cheesy goodness that makes every bite yummy!
Honestly, it’s so good you’ll feel like you’re in a cozy restaurant! Pair it with some veggies or mashed potatoes for a meal that feels special, but is super easy to put together. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe shines with ground chicken for a lighter option. However, you can substitute with ground turkey or even lean ground beef if you prefer. Each choice will slightly change the flavor and texture, but they all work well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead—1/8 teaspoon per clove. It won’t be as strong, but it’ll still add a nice taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives the meatloaf a lovely creaminess. If you want a different taste, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option, and it adds a cheesy flavor too!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for their light crunch. You can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers if you’ve run out of breadcrumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also work if needed.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a touch of color and freshness. If it’s not available, dried parsley can be used (1 tablespoon should suffice), or even basil for a different flavor profile!
How Can I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here are some tips to ensure it stays juicy:
- Do not overmix the ingredients; stir just until combined. This prevents the meatloaf from getting tough.
- Using moist ingredients like milk and grated cheese helps add richness and keeps it juicy.
- Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing helps it hold in all those delicious juices.
- Consider topping it with marinara sauce before baking. It adds flavor and moisture throughout the cooking process.
Following these tips will result in a flavorful and tender Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf everyone will love!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onion and garlic)
For Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 45-55 minutes to bake, plus a 10-minute resting time once it comes out of the oven. In total, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and smell delicious. Then, take them off the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, the sautéed onion and garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Stir together gently until the mixture is just combined; be careful not to overmix, which can make the meatloaf tough!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf. Press it down slightly to ensure it holds its shape during baking.
5. Add a Topping (Optional):
If you like, spread marinara or tomato sauce evenly on top of the meatloaf to give it a delicious, saucy finish while it bakes!
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
7. Let It Rest:
When it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it retain its juices and makes slicing easier.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
After resting, slice the meatloaf and serve warm. It’s perfect with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful, tender Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield a similar texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that turkey can sometimes be slightly drier, so you may want to add a little extra milk or cheese for moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach is a great way to boost nutrition. Just be sure to sauté any veggies with the onions and garlic first to ensure they cook properly and add flavor.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice or pasta for a heartier meal!
