This creamy garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s juicy, full of flavor, and made with tender chicken, garlic, and a kick of parmesan.
Who knew meatloaf could be so fancy? I like to smother it in extra sauce before serving. It’s a guaranteed way to impress anyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our meatloaf. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey works just as well. For something richer, you can use ground beef or pork, but the flavor will change a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you don’t have any, pecorino Romano or even mozzarella can be used, but keep in mind that the taste will differ. You can also use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crunchy texture. However, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can serve as a substitute if panko is not available.
Milk: Any kind of milk works here—dairy or non-dairy options like almond or soy milk are great too. Use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a thicker consistency and a nice tang.
Fresh Garlic: Garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a substitute—use about 1 teaspoon to replace each clove.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be a bit tricky, but worry not! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect texture:
- Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dry loaf.
- Add moisture with milk and eggs—they bind everything together and keep it juicy.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender.
- Consider adding finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini. They add moisture and flavor.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep time and then 45-50 minutes for baking. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. In total, set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Loaf Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make for easy cleanup later on.
2. Mixing the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf:
Shape the combined mixture into a loaf form and place it into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is nicely golden brown.
4. Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While your meatloaf is baking, you can prepare the delicious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
5. Creating the Sauce:
Next, stir in the butter until it’s melted, and then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Once it starts to thicken, add in 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and creamy. Taste and add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat once done.
6. Serving the Meatloaf:
After the meatloaf has finished baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve each slice with a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the top. Feel free to garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch!
7. Enjoy!
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf is now ready to wow your taste buds! Enjoy every tasty bite!
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well, offering a slightly different flavor while still keeping the dish light and tasty.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a hearty side, consider serving it with garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf up to a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
