This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is so tasty, you’ll wish you had seconds! With juicy chicken, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s a family favorite.
Honestly, who knew meatloaf could be this good? I love serving it with mashed potatoes for dipping—you know you want to try it too! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! You can also use ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, but still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works too; just use about 1 teaspoon instead of the 3 cloves.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work too. For gluten-free needs, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried parsley can be used, but you won’t get that vibrant taste. Feel free to replace it with basil or oregano for a different flavor profile!
How Do You Keep Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
The key to a moist and tender meatloaf is in the mixing and baking. Mixing should be gentle—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Make sure all your wet ingredients, like milk and eggs, are well integrated to keep everything moist.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking, which means drying it out.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows the juices to settle and not spill when you slice.
- Adding cheese in the middle is a fun touch for moisture and flavor. Just don’t skip it!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional, for melty center)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (optional, to brush on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty meatloaf takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 45-55 minutes to bake in the oven. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s essential to have your oven hot and ready to make sure the meatloaf cooks evenly!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, eggs, milk, dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re feeling extra garlicky!). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until just combined. Remember, you want to be friendly with your mixture—overmixing can toughen it up!
3. Add Optional Cheese:
If you want a cheesy surprise in the middle, gently fold in the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese at this point. It adds a delightful melty center!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, shape your mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared loaf pan. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also form a free-standing loaf on a lined baking sheet. Just make sure it’s sturdy!
5. Top with Sauce:
Spread the marinara or tomato sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist while baking.
6. Optional Glaze:
If you want a beautiful brown top, brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil or melted butter. It’s not necessary, but it certainly adds a nice touch!
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and it looks golden brown on top.
8. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice delicious and juicy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your meatloaf and serve it warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. This tasty dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your garlicky, cheesy chicken meatloaf that truly melts in your mouth!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if you prefer! Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a little different, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices for convenience.
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley instead. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so you might want to reduce the amount a bit for other herbs as well. Just make sure to adjust to your taste!
What Should I Serve with Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or creamy coleslaw on the side!
