This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic. It’s made with juicy chicken, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor!
The best part? It’s super simple to mix and bake, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it with mashed potatoes — it becomes a family favorite in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe shines with lean ground chicken, keeping the meatloaf juicy without too much fat. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or lean beef instead for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for its light and crunchy texture, making the meatloaf extra tender. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese offers the best flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even grated mozzarella for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon instead, but fresh gives the best result. You can also add garlic to taste if you love its flavor like I do!
Fresh Parsley: It adds a nice pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley is a good substitute, but use less – about a tablespoon.
How Do You Sauté Onions and Garlic Perfectly?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key to building flavor in your meatloaf. Here’s how to do it just right:
- In your skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. This helps prevent burning.
- Add the finely chopped onion first, cooking it for about 2-3 minutes until it softens.
- Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until it’s fragrant but not browned. Overcooking can lead to bitterness!
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the meatloaf mixture. This way, you won’t cook the egg when you add it!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onion and garlic)
For Topping:
- ¼ cup ketchup or tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-55 minutes to bake. You’ll have a total cooking time of roughly 1 hour, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the sautéed onion and garlic, egg, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape the Loaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf to ensure even cooking.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup (or tomato sauce), garlic powder, and additional Parmesan cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of your meatloaf.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help it hold together better when you slice it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or crisp steamed vegetables. Enjoy this flavorful and moist Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Lean Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken, providing a similar texture and flavor. Just be aware that turkey may be slightly leaner, so the meatloaf might yield a little less moisture. Adding an extra tablespoon of milk can help keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly before freezing!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground oats. Make sure that all other ingredients, particularly the ketchup and seasonings, are gluten-free as well.
What Can I Add for More Flavor?
Feel free to customize your meatloaf by adding extra ingredients! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach can add flavor and nutrition. You can also mix in some Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
