This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is moist, tasty, and packed with flavor! It’s a fun twist on the classic meatloaf, with garlic and parmesan cheese adding a delicious touch.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a yummy dinner that everyone enjoys. Plus, the leftovers make the best sandwiches! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This meatloaf shines with ground chicken for a lighter fare. If you prefer, you could use ground turkey or even lean ground beef for a richer flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too. Just make sure they’re not too powdery to retain some texture!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is best for flavor and melting. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano adds a nice twist, or go for a mix of mozzarella for creaminess.
Fresh Parsley: It adds freshness and color. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried parsley will work in a pinch, but you’ll miss that fresh flavor. Try adding a bit of Italian seasoning instead!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
To get that juicy meatloaf, be gentle when mixing your ingredients. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Here are some tips:
- Combine everything just until mixed—no need to knead like bread.
- Incorporate moisture with eggs and milk; they help keep it tender.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows the juices to settle, so it slices beautifully.
Try these tips for the perfect meatloaf every time! Enjoy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional, for stuffing or topping)
- 1/4 cup ketchup or your favorite glaze (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes for prep and 45-55 minutes for baking. You’ll spend a total of around 1 hour for a tasty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatloaf will cook evenly. You can lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano, and basil. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep it tender and moist!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or press it into your greased loaf pan—either way works great!
4. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re feeling cheesy, you can press half of the meat mixture in the pan, layer it with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese, and then top it off with the remaining meat mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy center!
5. Top with Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like, spread some ketchup or your favorite glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a nice, tangy flavor to the outside!
6. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the meatloaf in the oven for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside!
8. Garnish:
For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with extra chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite of your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
This dish is not just tasty but also a fun way to enjoy a classic. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a similar texture. Just be aware that turkey can sometimes be a bit drier, so you may want to add a bit more milk or softened butter to keep the meatloaf moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven. To keep it from drying out, cover it with a damp paper towel when microwaving!
Can I Make This Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just shape it into a loaf right before baking for the best results. This is perfect for getting a head start on dinner!
Can I Freeze The Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.