This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! It’s packed with juicy chicken, flavorful garlic, and cheesy goodness that your whole family will love.
Honestly, who knew meatloaf could be this fun? I like to serve it with some mashed potatoes, and trust me—it’s a dinner win! You won’t want to miss those leftovers, either!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! You can choose lean ground chicken for a lighter meal, or opt for regular ground chicken for a juicier outcome. If you want a different flavor, ground turkey is a good substitute too.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed rice or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works but lacks some freshness. Nutritional yeast can be a fantastic dairy-free alternative!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that strong flavor, but if you only have garlic powder, use 1 teaspoon of it instead. For a milder taste, roasted garlic is a nice option.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, basil or even spinach can work in a pinch.
How Do You Ensure Your Meatloaf Stays Moist?
One of the biggest fears with chicken meatloaf is dryness. To keep it moist, follow these tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Just combine until ingredients are incorporated.
- Adding milk and eggs helps to hold moisture and bind everything together.
- If using lean ground chicken, consider adding some extra moisture with finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrot.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial as it redistributes the juices.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up a deliciously moist Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf every time!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf will take you about 20 minutes of prep time, plus around 55-65 minutes to bake. Don’t forget the extra 10 minutes for resting before serving! In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. Easy and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for cooking the meatloaf evenly. Also, line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped onion, eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything gently. Just make sure not to overmix, as this helps keep the meatloaf tender!
3. Add Cheese if Desired:
If you want a cheesy surprise in every bite, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese. This step is totally optional but adds a delightful gooeyness!
4. Shape and Place in Pan:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into your prepared loaf pan. Make sure it’s evenly shaped for proper cooking.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, Parmesan, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to create the glaze. This will give your meatloaf a lovely finish and extra flavor!
6. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize nicely as it bakes!
7. Bake:
Pop the meatloaf into the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and it’s cooked through.
8. Let it Rest:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Enjoy every delectable bite of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
Happy cooking!
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey or lean ground beef if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or in an oven set to low until heated through.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes! This meatloaf freezes very well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf in advance. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it cold from the fridge.
