This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is super tender and packed with flavor! With juicy chicken, zesty garlic, and a cheesy twist, it’s a delicious twist on a classic dish.
Meatloaf that melts in your mouth? Yes, please! I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. You’ll want to keep a fork handy because it’s so easy to go back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf! It’s leaner than beef or pork, making for a lighter dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, ground turkey works well too, but it might need a bit more seasoning.
Italian-Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture to your loaf. If you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs mixed in (oregano, basil, etc.) will do just fine. You can even use crushed crackers for a unique touch!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives the meatloaf a nice savory kick. In a pinch, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast if you’re vegan!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that punch of flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder works as an alternative—about 1 teaspoon equals a clove, but fresh is always better for taste!
Eggs: These help bind the meatloaf ingredients together. If you’re vegan or need a substitute, try flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a binder.
How Do You Prevent Your Meatloaf from Becoming Dry?
Cooking meatloaf can be tricky! To ensure it stays moist, follow these steps:
- Mix gently! Overmixing can lead to dense meatloaf. Just combine the ingredients until they’re evenly mixed.
- Add moisture with eggs and milk, which help keep everything juicy.
- If using lean chicken, consider adding finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. They release moisture during cooking!
- Don’t skip the resting time! After baking, let your meatloaf sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1½ 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 milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra meltiness)
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, adds depth to topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes of prep time and about 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, give it a 10-minute rest before slicing. So, plan on about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, you can prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; we want the meatloaf to be tender!
3. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re in the mood for some extra cheesy goodness, gently fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese at this point for a delightful surprise in the center!
4. Form the Loaf:
Transfer the mixed meat into the prepared loaf pan. Press the mixture down gently and shape it into a loaf form. Don’t worry about being perfect—it’s all about deliciousness!
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the ketchup with Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a tasty glaze that will caramelize while baking.
6. Bake it Up:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, keeping it moist and delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. It pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Enjoy this tasty garlic Parmesan delight that melts in your mouth!
Enjoy your meal and feel free to share this recipe with family and friends!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will keep the meatloaf light. Just be sure to check the fat content; lean ground turkey may require additional moisture.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! Replace the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You could also use oats as a binder for a wholesome texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
