This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf packs a flavor punch with tender chicken, garlic, and lots of cheesy goodness. It’s a fun twist on classic meatloaf that everyone will love!
I love how simple it is to make. Just mix everything, shape it, and bake! Perfect for a busy weeknight or when I want something comforting and tasty. Plus, the leftovers are amazing in sandwiches! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our meatloaf. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey works great too! If you prefer a richer flavor, try using a mix of ground chicken and ground pork.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious nutty flavor. Grated Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute if you want something a bit sharper. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch! If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs work too. You can also use crushed crackers or oats for a different texture. Just make sure they are finely ground for even mixing!
Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you don’t have parsley, try fresh basil or thyme. Dried herbs are fine too; just use a smaller amount as they are more concentrated.
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf Tender and Juicy?
To ensure your chicken meatloaf stays juicy, avoid overmixing when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Also, adding milk and an egg helps keep it moist. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine ingredients gently until just mixed.
- Shape it without packing the mixture too tightly.
- Let it rest after baking for a few minutes before slicing; this helps retain moisture.
Enjoy your cooking, and remember, practice makes perfect with meatloaf!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- 1/3 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. Plan for about 1 hour total, including a little resting time before you slice into your delicious meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, diced onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and, if you want more garlicky goodness, the garlic powder. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—it’s important not to overmix, so your meatloaf remains tender!
3. Shape Your Meatloaf:
Now, take the mixture and form it into a loaf shape. You can either place it into the prepared loaf pan or shape it freeform on a baking sheet if you prefer a more rustic look.
4. Add a Tasty Topping:
If you’d like, spread the ketchup or tomato sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This adds a nice flavor and helps keep it moist while baking!
5. Bake It:
Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is a lovely golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it hold together better when you slice it. Serve warm with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a similar texture and taste. Just be aware that turkey can be a little leaner, so consider adding a touch more milk or a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, grated zucchini, or even spinach can be great additions. Just make sure to finely chop or grate them so they mix well into the meatloaf. You may want to reduce the amount of breadcrumbs slightly to compensate for the extra moisture from vegetables.
What Can I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a comforting twist, you can also serve it with mac and cheese on the side!
