Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe: The Juicy Family Favorite

Mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf brings comfort right to your dinner table.

Families adore this hearty twist on classic meatloaf recipes.

Tender meat mixed with savory cheese creates an irresistible combination.

Rich parmesan adds a delightful depth of flavor that makes each bite memorable.

Fragrant garlic infuses warmth into every slice, promising a satisfying meal.

Simple ingredients come together quickly, making preparation a breeze for busy cooks.

Packed with protein and packed with zest, this dish guarantees smiles around the table.

Serve this incredible meatloaf and watch everyone ask for seconds.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute and works perfectly with the same seasonings and cheese blend.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Use a combination of milk and egg to keep the mixture moist. Also, avoid overmixing and don’t overbake the meatloaf. Check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked but not dried out.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a replacement.

What Makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Shine

  • Boost Protein Powerhouse: Packed with lean ground chicken, this meatloaf delivers a nutritious protein punch perfect for health-conscious families.
  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe a go-to solution for busy home cooks seeking delicious, stress-free meals.
  • Customize with Cheese Lovers: The generous addition of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a rich, melty texture that appeals to cheese enthusiasts of all ages.
  • Elevate Comfort Food: Transform traditional meatloaf into a gourmet experience with Italian-inspired seasonings and a golden, crispy exterior that makes every bite memorable.

Everything Needed for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Meat Base:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean protein that provides the primary structure for the meatloaf with a light and tender texture.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture to the meatloaf.
Cheese Group:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a creamy and melty element that adds richness to the dish.
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Breadcrumbs, Milk: Help to keep the meatloaf moist and provide a smooth texture.
  • Garlic, Parsley, Italian Seasoning: Contribute fresh and aromatic flavors that complement the chicken.
Seasoning Group:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste of the meatloaf.
Finishing Touch:
  • Olive Oil: Helps create a golden and crispy exterior when drizzled on top of the meatloaf.

Steps for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 375F (190C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Fusion

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your meatloaf magic ingredients:
  • Ground chicken
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Chopped parsley
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, or you’ll end up with a tough meatloaf.

Step 3: Craft Your Meaty Marvel

Transfer the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, sculpting it into a beautiful loaf shape. If you prefer, you can press it into a loaf pan.

Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the top to help create a golden, crispy crust.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Slide your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165F (74C) and the loaf feels firm when touched.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Finale (Optional)

For extra indulgence, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Pop it back in the oven until the cheese melts into gooey deliciousness.

Step 6: Rest And Serve With Flair

Allow your meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after baking.

This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Moist and Savory Chicken Meatloaf

  • Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to prevent the meatloaf from drying out, ensuring a juicy and tender result every time.
  • Mix ingredients with a light hand to keep the chicken meatloaf tender and prevent a tough, compact texture during cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F without overcooking.
  • Layer extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top during the last few minutes of baking for a golden, crispy cheese crust that adds incredible flavor.
  • Make the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to develop deeper flavors and simplify weeknight cooking.

Chicken Meatloaf Variations to Try

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Meatloaf: Swap Italian seasoning with dried oregano, mint, and za'atar spice blend for a Middle Eastern flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Protein Meatloaf: Substitute breadcrumbs with finely chopped cauliflower rice or ground pork rinds to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining moisture.
  • Turkey Alternative Meatloaf: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a similar lean protein option with a slightly different taste and texture.

Sides to Serve With Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf and refresh the palate.
  • Serve alongside herb-roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers to add color, nutrition, and a complementary flavor profile that enhances the meatloaf's savory notes.
  • Create a garlic-themed side dish with toasted garlic bread or focaccia, which echoes the meatloaf's garlic undertones and provides a delightful crispy texture contrast.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Easily

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the chicken meatloaf will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the package with the date to track freshness.
  • Place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, rotating halfway through. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness and maintain moisture.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe


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4.8 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf brings comfort and excitement to dinner tables with its savory blend of ground chicken, herbs, and cheesy goodness. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, this dish promises a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground chicken
  • 1 large egg

Cheeses:

  • 0.5 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup (56 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional mozzarella cheese for topping

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 0.5 cup (60 grams) breadcrumbs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup (60 milliliters) milk
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare oven to 375F (190C) and ready a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for optimal cooking surface.
  2. Combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, egg, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, gently blending ingredients until just incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
  3. Mold the meat mixture into a compact loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring even distribution and smooth surface.
  4. Drizzle olive oil across the meatloaf surface to enhance browning and create a golden exterior.
  5. Place in preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, monitoring internal temperature until it reaches 165F (74C) and the loaf feels firm when touched.
  6. Optional: During final 5 minutes of baking, scatter additional mozzarella cheese on top, returning to oven until cheese melts and develops a delicate golden color.
  7. Remove from oven and allow meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist final result.
  8. Slice carefully, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve alongside preferred accompaniments for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Gently mix the meatloaf ingredients to keep the texture light and tender, preventing a tough, dense result.
  • Consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.
  • Swap ground chicken with turkey for a similar lean protein alternative that maintains the recipe’s delicate flavor profile.
  • Add extra moisture by incorporating grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms into the mixture, boosting nutrition and preventing dryness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 316 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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