Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering robust flavors and a moist texture that will please even the pickiest eaters. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weekday when I needed something hearty yet quick to prepare. This meatloaf became an instant family hit, thanks to its savory garlic notes and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into why this dish is worth adding to your meal rotation!

Why you’ll love this dish

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavors that dance on your palate. Here are some reasons to give this recipe a try:

  • Quick & Easy: With a hands-on prep time of just 15 minutes, you’ll have dinner in the oven and can relax while it bakes.
  • Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank.
  • Kid-Approved: The cheesy, garlicky flavors are widely appealing, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
  • Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a holiday gathering where you want something comforting and delicious.

"This meatloaf was a game changer in our household! My kids devoured it, and I loved how simple it was to make." – A happy home cook

How this recipe comes together

Preparing this flavorful meatloaf is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. You’ll sauté some onions, then combine all your ingredients in a large bowl. The magic happens as you shape and bake it, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Here’s a quick rundown of the process before we get into the details:

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare your baking dish.
  2. Sauté the onions until soft and fragrant.
  3. Mix the ground chicken with the sautéed onions and other ingredients.
  4. Shape into a loaf and bake until perfectly cooked.

What you’ll need

To prepare this savory meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Feel free to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs or cheeses to suit your taste!

Directions to follow

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, sautéed onions, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add a dash of paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Best ways to enjoy it

While this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is incredible on its own, consider some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

  • Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a classic comfort food pairing.
  • A simple green salad with a lemon dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
  • For an Italian twist, try serving it with marinara sauce on top and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Storing & reheating tips

To keep your delicious meatloaf fresh:

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Uncooked or cooked meatloaf can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
  • Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some added tips to ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

  • Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
  • Use lean ground chicken: For the best results, opt for ground chicken breast, which is leaner and produces a lighter meatloaf.
  • Moisture magic: Adding a splash of milk or a little bit of grated zucchini can help keep your meatloaf moist if you prefer.

Creative twists

Looking to customize your meatloaf? Here are some delicious variations to try:

  • Herbs and Spices: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an herby flavor.
  • Spiced Up: Mix in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

Common questions

  • How long does it take to prepare?
    Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 50 minutes.

  • Can I substitute ingredients?
    Yes! Ground turkey or beef can replace ground chicken, and you can use any type of cheese you prefer.

  • How should I store leftovers?
    Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

  • Is it safe to reheat meatloaf?
    Absolutely! Just make sure it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is easy, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf


Description

A delightful twist on classic meatloaf featuring robust garlic and cheesy flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, sautéed onions, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the greased baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add a dash of paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs or cheeses to suit your taste. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian