This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! Tender chicken, zesty garlic, and cheesy goodness all come together for a family-friendly dish that’s sure to please.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! I love how you can just mix everything, shape it, and pop it in the oven. Plus, leftovers make for the best sandwiches the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our meatloaf. Ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer. Just keep in mind turkey can be slightly drier, so you might want to add a bit more moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can stand in nicely. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko for a lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crush gluten-free crackers.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness. If it’s not available, you could substitute with dried herbs like oregano or basil. Just use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Properly Mix My Meatloaf Without Overmixing?
A common struggle with meatloaf is ensuring it’s mixed well while preventing it from becoming tough. The key is gentle mixing! Here’s how:
- After combining the ingredients, use your hands or a spatula to fold the mixture. This helps keep the texture light.
- Avoid packing it tightly into the loaf pan. Just shape it gently so it holds together but remains fluffy.
- Mix only until no dry spots remain. If you see the chicken is blended with the breadcrumbs and veggies, you’re set!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onion and garlic)
For Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce or ketchup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you’re digging in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and either lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Once done, remove them from heat and allow them to cool a little while you prepare the meat mixture.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Gently mix until everything is well combined but be careful not to overmix, as this could make the meatloaf tough!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s even on the top for a nice presentation.
5. Add the Topping:
Spread the marinara sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will add flavor and keep the meatloaf moist!
6. Bake:
Now, place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The meatloaf is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is lightly golden brown.
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, pull it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and make slicing easier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey in place of chicken! Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a touch more milk or using a mixture of dark and light turkey for added moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check the labels for safety!
Can I Prepare the Meatloaf in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time, shape it into a loaf, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as it might take a bit longer to cook from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through.
