Description of this recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, offering a healthier and tastier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. Made with ground chicken, these mini meatloaves are infused with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether baked in a muffin tin for individual portions or shaped into a loaf pan, they’re incredibly versatile and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely adore these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves because they combine the ease of preparation with the satisfaction of a gourmet meal. They’re incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the addition of milk and the perfect balance of ingredients. The garlic and Parmesan create a savory, cheesy flavor that’s irresistible. These mini meatloaves are also a healthier option, being made with lean ground chicken. Plus, the optional glaze adds a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The individual serving sizes make them ideal for portion control and meal prepping, ensuring a convenient and delicious meal anytime.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the meatloaves inside, allowing for even cooking and a perfectly browned exterior. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking container. You can use a muffin tin, which is perfect for creating individual meatloaves that are easy to serve and portion. Alternatively, you can use a small loaf pan for a more traditional meatloaf shape. If you prefer using a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper. This prevents the meatloaves from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Grease the muffin tin or loaf pan with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to further prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatloaves. Start by adding the ground chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the bowl. Next, add the breadcrumbs, which help to bind the ingredients together and provide a pleasant texture. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, which contributes a rich, savory flavor and helps to keep the meatloaves moist. Crack in the large egg, which acts as a binder and adds moisture. Add the minced garlic, ensuring it’s finely minced to distribute its flavor evenly throughout the meatloaves. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, which add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Finally, add the milk, which helps to keep the meatloaves tender and moist.
Step 3: Combine Gently
Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the ingredients, as this can result in tough meatloaves. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to carefully incorporate all the ingredients, ensuring that they are evenly distributed. Be gentle and avoid pressing or compacting the mixture too much. The goal is to create a cohesive mixture without losing the tender texture of the ground chicken.
Step 4: Shape Loaves
Once the mixture is combined, divide it into four equal portions. This ensures that each meatloaf cooks evenly and has a consistent size. Shape each portion into a small loaf, about 3-4 inches long. If you’re using a muffin tin, press each portion into the wells of the tin, filling each well to the top. This creates perfectly shaped individual meatloaves that are easy to serve. If you’re using a loaf pan, gently press the mixture into the pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. If you’re using a baking sheet, shape each portion into a loaf and place them evenly spaced on the sheet.
Step 5: Prepare Optional Glaze
In a small bowl, prepare the optional glaze by stirring together the ketchup, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. This glaze adds a tangy sweetness and extra layer of flavor to the meatloaves. The ketchup provides a sweet and tangy base, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory, cheesy element. The garlic powder enhances the garlic flavor and complements the other ingredients. Stir the glaze until it’s smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Brush with Glaze
Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, brush the glaze over the tops of the meatloaves. Ensure that each meatloaf is evenly coated with the glaze, covering the entire surface. The glaze will caramelize in the oven, creating a beautiful, glossy finish and adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
Step 7: Bake
Place the meatloaves in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, inserting it into the center of one of the meatloaves. The meatloaves are done when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the meatloaves are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the meatloaves immediately and enjoy.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Serve them with:
- Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal.
- Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts for a healthy and flavorful side.
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious and filling side dish.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
- If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use a combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
- To prevent the meatloaves from drying out, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, approximate)
Calories:
Approximately 350-400
Protein:
Approximately 30-35g
Sodium:
Approximately 400-500mg
Conclusion
These Juicy and Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together the comforting flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the lightness of ground chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, these meatloaves are sure to deliver. Easy to prepare, versatile in serving, and packed with flavor, they are a must-try recipe for any home cook. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a truly exceptional meal.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just ensure that it’s lean ground turkey to keep the meatloaves moist and tender. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Q2: Can I make these meatloaves ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the loaves and bake as directed. You can also bake the meatloaves in advance and reheat them before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q3: What can I do if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
A: If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. These alternatives will help bind the ingredients together and provide a similar texture to the meatloaves.
Q4: Can I freeze these meatloaves?
A: Yes, these meatloaves freeze very well. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What other variations can I try with this recipe?
A: There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Try adding chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also try different glazes, such as a honey-mustard glaze or a balsamic glaze.
