Description: This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a healthier and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground chicken, aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, this meatloaf offers a delicious and satisfying meal with a crispy, golden crust. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly throughout and achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. Parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the meatloaf from sticking. A lightly greased loaf pan also works well, especially if you prefer a more defined shape.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, milk, chopped fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens! The breadcrumbs act as a binder, holding the meatloaf together while also providing a pleasant texture. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory richness that complements the chicken beautifully. The eggs contribute moisture and further bind the ingredients. The minced garlic and chopped onion infuse the meatloaf with aromatic depth. The milk helps to keep the meatloaf moist and tender. Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and vibrant color. The Italian seasoning provides a classic blend of herbs that elevates the overall flavor profile. Finally, the salt and pepper season the mixture perfectly.
Step 3: Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough meatloaf. The goal is to incorporate all the ingredients evenly without working the ground chicken too much. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently fold the ingredients together until they are just combined.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. If you’re using a baking sheet, gently mold the mixture into an oval shape, ensuring it’s evenly thick throughout. If you’re using a loaf pan, press the mixture firmly into the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners.
Step 5: If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and gently press it into the loaf. The mozzarella cheese is optional but highly recommended! It adds a delicious, melty layer of cheesy goodness to the top of the meatloaf. Gently press the cheese into the loaf to help it adhere during baking.
Step 6: Brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil to help create a golden crust. A light brushing of olive oil will encourage browning and create a beautiful, crispy crust on the meatloaf. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the surface with a thin layer of olive oil.
Step 7: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meatloaf. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), the meatloaf is safe to eat.
Step 8: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Allowing the meatloaf to rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful final product. Cover the meatloaf loosely with foil during the resting period to keep it warm.
Step 9: Serve warm with a side of mashed potatoes, veggies, or a fresh salad. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad are all excellent choices.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a winner for several reasons:
- Healthier Alternative: Using ground chicken makes this a leaner option compared to traditional beef meatloaf, without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates a truly delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting and flavorful dish.
- Crispy Crust: Brushing with olive oil ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust, adding a delightful textural contrast to the tender meatloaf.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. For example, consider adding finely chopped carrots or zucchini for added nutrients and texture. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or asiago for a unique flavor twist.
COOKING Rating: 5/5 stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.
- Pair it with a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Slice and serve on toasted buns with a dollop of marinara sauce for a meatloaf sandwich.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Accompany with a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Tips:
- Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this will result in a tough texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of minced garlic.
- Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meatloaf mixture for extra depth of flavor.
- To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 50 minutes Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, approximate) *Calories: 290 kcal *Protein: 30g *Sodium: 600mg (depending on salt added)
Conclusion:
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. With its crispy crust and tender interior, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use different types of ground meat instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for ground chicken to offer a leaner option, you can certainly substitute it with ground turkey, ground pork, or even a mixture of ground beef and pork for a more traditional meatloaf flavor. Keep in mind that using different meats will affect the overall flavor and fat content of the dish. Ground turkey is a good lean alternative, while ground pork will add richness. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the chosen meat.
Q2: I don’t have seasoned breadcrumbs. Can I use plain breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can definitely use plain breadcrumbs. If you’re using plain breadcrumbs, you’ll want to add a bit more Italian seasoning (about another ½ teaspoon) and a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder to compensate for the flavor that the seasoned breadcrumbs would have provided. You can also add a little extra salt and pepper to taste. Consider adding some dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for additional flavor.
Q3: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A: Yes, this meatloaf freezes very well. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or slice and pan fry. Freezing the cooked meatloaf will help make meal preparation faster and easier.
Q4: I don’t have Parmesan cheese. What is a good substitute?
A: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use other hard, aged cheeses as substitutes. Pecorino Romano is a good option, as it has a similar sharp and salty flavor. Asiago cheese is another good choice, although it is slightly milder than Parmesan. You could also use a hard Italian cheese blend, or a pre-shredded blend for convenience. Be sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe if using a particularly salty cheese.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this meatloaf?
A: Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this meatloaf. Finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can be incorporated into the meatloaf mixture. Make sure to chop the vegetables finely to ensure they cook evenly and don’t affect the texture of the meatloaf. About 1 cup of chopped vegetables is a good amount to start with. Sauteing the vegetables lightly before adding them to the meatloaf mixture can help to soften them and enhance their flavor.
