This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a cozy dish that promises big flavor! With juicy chicken, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s super tasty and comforting.
I love how easy this meatloaf is to whip up—just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, it seriously melts in your mouth. Don’t be surprised if you go for seconds (or thirds!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of the meatloaf. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great too. For a richer flavor, you can mix in some ground pork or beef.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor! If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just note that the taste will vary slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for a lighter texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though the meatloaf may be a bit denser. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an option for gluten-sensitive folks.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for a robust flavor. If you are in a pinch, use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) instead. However, fresh garlic provides a wonderful aroma!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness! If you don’t have it, feel free to leave it out or replace it with dried herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor twist.
How Do You Ensure Your Meatloaf Stays Moist and Tender?
The secret to a juicy meatloaf lies in balancing your ingredients and cooking methods. Here are some tips to help you make a perfect meatloaf:
- Use a mix of wet and dry ingredients, like breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk, to keep the loaf from drying out.
- Be gentle when mixing. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Just combine until everything is incorporated.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This helps retain moisture and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
- Consider a meat thermometer. Cook until it hits 165°F (74°C) for optimal doneness without drying it out.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf That Melts In Your Mouth
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- ¼ cup ketchup (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes afterwards before slicing. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes for a delicious meatloaf that will melt in your mouth!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking until they become soft and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, sautéed garlic and onion, parsley, milk, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is included for maximum flavor!
4. Mix It Up:
Using your hands or a spatula, mix all the ingredients gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix; this will help keep your meatloaf tender and juicy!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, using your hands to press it down gently and shape it into an even loaf on top.
6. Add Toppings:
If you like, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture. Then sprinkle the additional 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan on top.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf is fully cooked through and safe to eat.
8. Rest Before Slicing:
After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more delicious when sliced!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm. You can garnish it with extra fresh parsley or Parmesan if you’d like. Enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground chicken is the star of this recipe, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in the oven, or microwave individual slices on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, you can use regular breadcrumbs. However, they will create a denser texture. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs—just keep in mind the flavor may differ slightly!
