GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF EASY

Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy meatloaf bursting with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan, yet surprisingly made with lean ground chicken. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf – this is a flavor explosion! Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with this incredibly easy and delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that I promise you’ll make again and again.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Let’s Get Started: Making Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Okay, my friend, let’s dive into this amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! I know meatloaf can seem intimidating, but trust me, this recipe is super straightforward. We’re going to walk through it step-by-step, and I’ll share some tips and tricks along the way to make sure yours turns out perfect every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients:

   First, let’s get all our ingredients ready. Mince your garlic, chop your parsley, and measure out your breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the whole process smoother. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté the Garlic:

   In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as that will give it a bitter taste. Remove from heat and set aside. This step is crucial for infusing that amazing garlic flavor throughout the entire Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.

3. Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients:

   In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, sautéed garlic (including the oil!), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix everything together with your hands, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. You want everything just combined.

   Pro Tip: Using your hands is the best way to ensure everything is evenly distributed without overworking the mixture. Just get in there and gently massage it all together!

4. Shape the Meatloaf:

   Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches). Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. You can use your hands or a spatula to smooth the top. I like to create a slight dome shape for even cooking.

5. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

   In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. This topping is what will give our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf that beautiful golden-brown crust and extra burst of flavor.

6. Top and Bake:

   Brush the garlic parmesan topping evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf.

7. Rest and Serve:

   Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but trust me, this step is worth the wait!

Making it Your Own: Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about recipes is that you can customize them to your own taste! Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions you can try with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
• Add veggies: Finely diced onions, carrots, or celery can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them before adding them to the mixture.
• Breadcrumb variations: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
• Cheese Swaps: Try using asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions: Completing the Meal

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is delicious served with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, green beans, asparagus)
• A simple side salad
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine as a side dish, though it might be garlic overload!

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Let it rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your own taste. That’s the beauty of cooking!
• Handling Chicken: Ensure proper food safety by washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken.

Troubleshooting: Common Meatloaf Problems and Solutions

Sometimes, even with the best recipes, things can go a little sideways. Here are some common meatloaf problems and how to fix them:

• Dry Meatloaf: This can happen if the meatloaf is overcooked or if there isn’t enough moisture in the mixture. To prevent this, make sure to use enough milk and don’t overbake the meatloaf. Adding a little bit of grated zucchini to the mixture can also help add moisture.
• Tough Meatloaf: This is usually caused by overmixing the meatloaf mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Meatloaf Falls Apart: This can happen if there isn’t enough binder in the mixture. Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg. You can also add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste to help bind the ingredients together.
• Bland Meatloaf: This is easily fixed! Taste the meatloaf mixture before baking and add more seasonings as needed. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

Why Chicken Meatloaf? A Healthier Twist

Using ground chicken in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist. Ground chicken is lower in fat and calories than ground beef, making it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the garlic and Parmesan cheese add plenty of savory goodness, so you won’t even miss the beef!

If you are looking for more traditional meatloaf recipes, you could try Old-fashioned Meatloaf With Brown Gravy, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, Southern-style Meatloaf or even Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.

Beyond Meatloaf: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Adventures

If you’re a fan of garlic and Parmesan chicken, you’re in luck! There are so many other delicious recipes you can try. This flavor combination works incredibly well in pasta dishes, baked chicken breasts, and even chicken wings. Think Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, or even a simple grilled chicken breast marinated in a garlic Parmesan sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Perfect for Meal Prep

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is also a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can bake the meatloaf on Sunday and enjoy it for lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. Simply slice the meatloaf into individual portions and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Add some roasted vegetables or a side salad, and you have a healthy and satisfying meal ready to go.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and healthier twist on a classic comfort food. I hope you enjoy making and eating this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf as much as I do. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and healthier twist on the classic comfort food, using lean ground chicken. It’s easy to make and packed with savory garlic and Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Small skillet
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Small bowl for topping
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Meat thermometer
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian seasoned
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 4 cloves garlic, minced for meatloaf
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted for topping
• 2 cloves garlic, minced for topping
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for topping

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
• Measure out the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
• In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
• In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, sautéed garlic (including the oil!), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
• Mix everything together with your hands, but be careful not to overmix.
• Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches).
• Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
• Brush the garlic parmesan topping evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
• Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. Let it rest before slicing for a more tender result. For variations, add red pepper flakes for spice, finely diced vegetables for extra flavor, or experiment with different types of breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.