This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! Made with ground chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, it’s juicy and full of flavor.
It’s so easy to make, and your kitchen will smell amazing! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a complete meal. Plus, who doesn’t like a meatloaf that’s this cheesy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main star of the dish! Ground chicken is leaner than beef, making it a great choice. If you’re looking for variety, ground turkey works well too, though it may be a little drier, so you might want to add an extra tablespoon of milk.
Breadcrumbs: I suggest using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture. Regular breadcrumbs are fine too! If you want a gluten-free option, you could use almond flour or crushed cornflakes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a great punch! If you prefer it milder, you can use garlic powder instead, about 1 teaspoon should do. If you’re not a garlic lover, feel free to reduce the amount.
Milk: Regular cow’s milk works, but almond milk or oat milk can also be a good alternative for a lactose-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Keep My Meatloaf Tender?
To ensure your meatloaf stays moist and tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mixing too much can make it tough. Here are a few tips:
- Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed; a few lumps are okay!
- Using breadcrumbs and milk helps keep moisture in the mix. Panko breadcrumbs absorb more liquid without getting soggy.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking is key. It allows juices to redistribute, which prevents it from being dry when you slice into it.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- Optional: 1/4 cup ketchup or marinara sauce for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus approximately 45-55 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. So, altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined. Try not to overmix; we want to keep the meatloaf tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
After mixing, shape the mixture into a loaf shape using your hands. Place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet. If you like, spread ketchup or marinara sauce on top for extra flavor and moisture.
4. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Put the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meatloaf looks cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps keep it juicy. Serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind it may be slightly drier, so feel free to add a bit more milk or an extra egg to keep it moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best results, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for alternatives to breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. If you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
