Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Easy, Juicy Dinner Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food. This easy recipe combines aromatic garlic, rich Parmesan, and tender ground chicken for a moist and delicious dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or meal prep, these individual loaves bake quickly and satisfy every time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the milk to keep the mixture moist. Mix gently to combine without overworking.
3. Step 3: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf. Individual loaves cook faster and help with portion control.
4. Step 4: Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle the tops with olive oil to create a golden crust.
5. Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the meatloaf is cooked through yet juicy.
6. Step 6: Optional: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each loaf and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Use almond milk and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice crackers for gluten-free options.
• Try ground turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Do not overmix the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender instead of dense.
• Baking individual loaves shortens cooking time and helps with serving size control.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice crackers, especially for a gluten-free option. This will maintain the texture while keeping the recipe moist.

How do I know when the chicken meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and the juiciest results.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Easy, Juicy Dinner Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 80 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe is a flavorful and easy dinner option featuring ground chicken mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs. Baked to perfection with a crispy olive oil crust and an optional cheesy mozzarella topping, these individual meatloaf portions cook quickly and provide a juicy, protein-rich meal.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 individual meatloaves 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken (high-protein choice)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free option available)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and vegan Parmesan cheese
• Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice crackers
• Alternative Protein: Use ground turkey instead of chicken

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for even cooking and ensure the meatloaf bakes properly.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the milk to keep the mixture moist. Be careful not to overmix to avoid making the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Loaves: Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into small loaves. Individual loaves cook more quickly and help with portion control.
4. Add Olive Oil: Place the shaped loaves on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle each loaf with the olive oil, which will help create a golden, flavorful crust as they bake.
5. Bake the Meatloaves: Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are cooked thoroughly yet remain juicy.
6. Optional Cheesy Topping: For the last five minutes of baking, sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of each loaf. Return the tray to the oven to melt the cheese, adding a deliciously cheesy finish to your meatloaves.

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and not dense.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
• Using individual small loaves decreases cooking time and improves portion control.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute regular milk and Parmesan with almond milk and vegan Parmesan.
• Breadcrumbs can be swapped for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or rice crackers if needed.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, Easy Chicken Meatloaf, Baked Chicken Meatloaf, Healthy Meatloaf Recipe, Italian Meatloaf, Low Fat Meatloaf