This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Made with ground chicken, garlic, and parmesan cheese, it’s full of flavor and super easy to make.
It’s a fun way to sneak in some extra protein! I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple salad for a cozy dinner. Just be careful not to inhale too much garlic—it’s potent! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: The star of this meatloaf! If you want a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For a richer flavor, you could mix in some ground pork.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs help bind everything together while adding flavor. If you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of Italian herbs will do the trick.
Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy zing! If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a punch! You can substitute with garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon for each clove) if fresh isn’t available, but fresh really shines here.
Milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf. Use any milk you have on hand, or try non-dairy options like oat or almond milk for a lighter version.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Moist Meatloaf?
Keeping your meatloaf moist can be tricky, but here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients! Mixing too much can make the meatloaf dense.
- Add a bit of milk or additional wet ingredients (like ketchup or BBQ sauce) to the mixture to maintain moistness.
- Let it rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices inside.
- Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) but don’t overbake it!
These steps will help you create a delicious, tender meatloaf that the whole family will enjoy! Happy cooking!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
- Butter pat for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-55 minutes to bake. You’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing. So, in total, you’ll need approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You can lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, parsley, milk, salt, black pepper, and oregano (if you’re using it). Combine everything gently until just mixed. Avoid overmixing so your meatloaf stays tender and moist!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. If you’re not using a pan, mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto a lined baking tray.
4. Add Some Flavor:
Brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil or melted butter. This will help it brown nicely and add some tasty flavor!
5. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You want the top to be a lovely golden brown!
6. Optional Topping:
If you’d like, during the last 5 minutes of baking, add a small pat of butter to the top of the meatloaf to melt down for extra richness.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in!
8. Slice and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every savory bite!
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its golden crust and bits of parsley and garlic peeking through. It’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will give you a similar texture and flavor. Just be mindful that it might be a bit leaner, so adding a little moisture, like more milk, can help keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this meatloaf a day in advance! Just mix all the ingredients and shape the loaf, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven—no need to let it come to room temperature first!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced bell peppers, spinach, or even some shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey inside. For a kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the mix. The possibilities are endless!
