This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s made with ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and zesty garlic for a tasty combo everyone will love.
Trust me, the smell while it’s baking is amazing! I like to serve it with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for an easy dinner. You might end up going back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main ingredient. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option. If you prefer beef or pork, just adjust cooking times as they might change.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a similar taste, Pecorino Romano is a nice alternative. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast.
Breadcrumbs: I typically use plain breadcrumbs, but Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. For gluten-free diets, check out gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals a clove.
Milk: This keeps the meatloaf moist. Almond or oat milk can work for dairy-free diets. If you need a substitute, broth also adds flavor!
How Can You Make Sure Your Meatloaf is Tender and Juicy?
To get that perfect texture, mixing too much can cause the meatloaf to be dense. Here’s a few tips:
- Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients gently until just combined.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle.
- Consider adding some grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra moisture.
Remember, patience is key! A little bit of effort makes a huge difference in the final product.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or ketchup (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 55 to 65 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes for a scrumptious meal straight from your oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, let’s get that oven nice and warm. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, the large egg, finely chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil if using. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Remember, you want the meatloaf to be tender, so don’t overmix!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once the mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf. You can either mold it directly on the lined baking sheet or press it into the prepared loaf pan. Make sure it’s a nice, even shape.
4. Add the Topping:
Now for the fun part! Spread marinara sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a delicious flavor and a nice glaze!
5. Bake It Up:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 65 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest:
When it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for around 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy when you slice it up!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. It’s lovely garnished with a sprinkle of extra parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
FAQ about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Substitute Ground Chicken with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey for a leaner option, or even ground beef or pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
To ensure your meatloaf stays moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Additionally, you can add grated vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra moisture. Make sure to let it rest after baking for juicier slices!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure it’s covered tightly. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove, and consider adding a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out.
