This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! Made with ground chicken, garlic, and cheesy goodness, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love.
Don’t worry, this meatloaf doesn’t just sit there; it’s super moist and packed with flavor! I love to pair it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal that warms the heart!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star ingredient. Its lean nature keeps the meatloaf light. If you can’t find ground chicken, ground turkey works well too. Just make sure it’s not too fatty to avoid a greasy loaf!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese that melts well or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko breadcrumbs for their light and crispy texture, which keeps the meatloaf moist. If you’re gluten-free, there are many options available such as almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can substitute it with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. Use about one-eighth of a teaspoon for each clove needed.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley enhances flavors nicely. If you don’t have fresh, just use dried herbs but reduce the amount as dried herbs are more potent. You can also play around with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Meatloaf Without Overworking It?
Mixing your ingredients correctly is key to a fluffy meatloaf. If you mix too much, you’ll end up with a dense loaf. Here are my tips:
- Use your hands or a fork to gently combine all the ingredients until just mixed.
- Don’t strive for perfection; it’s okay if there are some visible chunks of chicken or onion.
- Remember to keep your hands wet if you’re using them – this prevents everything from sticking!
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to a perfectly moist and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce, for topping
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45-55 minutes to bake. After baking, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes, bringing your total time to around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your meatloaf. Grease a loaf pan lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Soaking the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk and set them aside to soften while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps keep your meatloaf moist!
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, softened breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly—don’t overmix or your meatloaf might get tough!
4. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Next, transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. It should look nice and even!
5. Adding the Sauce:
Now for the fun part! Spread the marinara or tomato sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. If you like, you can brush a little olive oil or melted butter on top for extra flavor and a beautiful browning.
6. Baking to Perfection:
Place the loaf in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Resting and Serving:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps keep everything juicy. Serve warm, and if you like, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy this flavorful, moist Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf as a comforting main dish that’s sure to delight your family!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose lean turkey to keep the meatloaf from becoming greasy.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oat flour. Make sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of broth or sauce before reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can boost flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture, which helps keep your meatloaf from becoming too wet.
