Oh, let me tell you about my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that always brings smiles to the dinner table. The combination of savory garlic and rich parmesan creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. I first made this meatloaf for a family gathering, and it vanished faster than I could say “seconds, please!” Now, it’s a staple in my home, perfect for cozy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The best part? It’s a healthy twist on the classic meatloaf, using chicken instead of beef, making it lighter but still packed with flavor. Trust me, you’re going to love this!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground chicken: A lean protein that’s tender and perfect for a flavorful meatloaf.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together, giving the meatloaf that classic texture we all love.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: This adds a savory, cheesy depth that truly elevates the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley: Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because what’s a meatloaf without garlic? It infuses the whole loaf with delicious flavor.
- 1 egg: This acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while keeping it moist.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this tasty meatloaf.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to round out the dish, but feel free to adjust to your taste!
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds an aromatic touch that makes each bite irresistible.
- 1/4 cup milk: To keep the meatloaf moist and tender—trust me, you don’t want a dry loaf!
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping: This sweet and tangy layer on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Let’s dive into the steps for making this scrumptious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! I promise it’s easier than you might think, and the end result is so rewarding. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meatloaf that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your meatloaf is ready to go in.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk. I like to use my hands for this because it’s the best way to ensure everything is well mixed. Just dive in and have fun with it!
- Shape the meatloaf: Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s evenly packed. This helps it cook evenly, and trust me, it’ll slice beautifully!
- Add the topping: Now, spread the ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This adds a lovely sweetness and a bit of tang that perfectly complements the savory flavors.
- Bake it: Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and it’s golden brown on top. The smell that fills your kitchen will be pure magic!
- Let it rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, so every slice is juicy and flavorful. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a breeze to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a mouthwatering flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Made with ground chicken, it’s a healthier twist on traditional meatloaf without sacrificing taste.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it great for meal prep.
- It pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.
- Kid-approved and family-friendly, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t overmix the ingredients; you want a tender loaf, not a dense one. If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work great as substitutes! For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or replacing some milk with chicken broth. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should hit 165°F (74°C). Finally, let it rest after baking; this little step makes a huge difference in juiciness! You’ve got this!
Variations
Getting creative with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is part of the fun! For a fresh twist, consider mixing in some finely chopped spinach or shredded zucchini for added moisture and nutrition. If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick. For herb lovers, try swapping out the parsley for fresh basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile. You could even experiment with different cheeses; feta or mozzarella can add a delightful creaminess. Don’t hesitate to play around with your favorite veggies or spices—this meatloaf is super versatile and begging for your personal touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is super easy! Just wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, perfect for quick meals later in the week. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to slice it first for easy thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, one slice of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf contains about 250 calories, 12g of fat, 22g of protein, and 15g of carbohydrates. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal!
FAQ About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and will still yield a delicious meatloaf. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they might differ slightly.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? If you’re out of breadcrumbs, no worries! Crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa can work as great alternatives that’ll still bind your meatloaf nicely.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done? The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure it’s no longer pink in the center.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in advance, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!
What’s the best way to slice the meatloaf? For clean slices, use a sharp knife and let the meatloaf rest for those 10 minutes after baking. This really helps keep it together while slicing!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Flavorful Delight for Everyone
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory and flavorful meatloaf made with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and milk.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread ketchup on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf