Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Are you craving a dinner that is comforting yet elegant? This one is the garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe!

This recipe turns an old meatloaf into a beautiful, family-friendly masterpiece.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a healthy chicken meatloaf or a home cook seeking something easy, budget-friendly, and Italian-inspired, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Bursting in Flavours: The delectable and savoury taste of garlic mixed with parmesan cheese and Italian herbs will surely start an explosion in your mouth.

A Healthier Choice: By using lean ground chicken instead of beef, you are cutting back on fat to make this meatloaf much healthier for your meals.

Quick Preparation: In under an hour, you can prepare this dish, making it ideal for a fast weeknight dinner when time is running short.

Adaptable: Pair it with your choice of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad, and you have a complete and fulfilling meal that will satisfy one and all.

Kids’ Favourite: Mild and cheesy flavour makes it perfect for picky eaters, and any kid will love this dish.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs ground chicken (93% lean recommended)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free)

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Glaze

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp brown sugar

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: The first step to preparing this dish is preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trim or line a loaf pan with parchment paper before going further, or grease it well to prevent sticking.

Mix Meatloaf: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken with three-quarters of the parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, an egg, garlic, milk, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Gently combine all the ingredients, as if you overwork the meatloaf, then it will be too tough.

Shape the Loaf: Pour the mixture into the loaf pan and mould it into a loaf. Freeform on a baking sheet if you want an even crisper outside.

Add the Glaze: Ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar blended in a small bowl, allowing you to coat half of this mix on the meatloaf to send it over the edge.

Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until it has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For the last 10 minutes of baking, add the rest of the glaze, and top it with the rest of the 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.

Rest and Serve: After baking, allow the meatloaf to set for about 10 minutes before slicing, garnishing with parsley, and serving hot for a truly delicious meal.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Meatloaf

Don’t Overmix: Gently mix so the meatloaf remains tender. Overmixing will make it tough, so simply combine the ingredients until mixed.

Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check both ends of your meatloaf; it should read an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for eating.

Add Moisture: In the mixture, milk and egg keep the meatloaf moist and prevent it from drying during cooking.

Crisp: Before serving, crank on the broiler for 2-3 minutes after applying the last glaze and finish with that all-important layer of parmesan cheese to give the meatloaf an amazing crispy finish.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crush any gluten-free crackers for regular breadcrumbs, should the recipe require a gluten-free option.

Low-Carb/Keto: If you’d like a low-carb option or would like it to count toward your keto way of eating, substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs.

This keeps the meatloaf low-carb and lends a crisp texture.

Dairy-Free: If this is to be dairy-free, either use nutritional yeast instead of the Parmesan cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

This will impart a good flavour without using any dairy substances.

Spicy Kick: Spice it up with the heat by mixing in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into your meat mixture.

This gives the meatloaf a wonderful spicy flavour.

Veggie-Packed: For added nutrition, finely chop some vegetables such as zucchini, bell pepper, and/or mushrooms to add to the mixture.

Not only do they offer added health benefits, but they also provide moisture and flavour for the meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions

Classic: Pair this Italian chicken meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.

Creamy potatoes go very well with the meatloaf, plus some crunch from the green beans.

Low-Carb: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower mash and a fresh arugula salad.

The treat of cauliflower mash replaces the potatoes, while the arugula salad adds a fresh lift.

Italian-Inspired: Serve with garlic bread and Caprese salad.

The garlic bread is fun to dip into, while the Caprese salad adds a touch of freshness with its tomatoes and mozzarella.

Kid-Friendly: Serve with mac and cheese and some steamed broccoli.

Kids love creamy mac and cheese, and the broccoli adds some healthy greens to the meal.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: Prep all ingredients (all but the glaze) up to a day ahead and store in the fridge.

Shape & freeze: Form the meatloaf, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before baking.

Glaze just before baking for the best texture.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Refrigerator: Place in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the item in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through.

The freezer: Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then pack it into a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

To warm it again: Store it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: If you want portion control, slice before freezing.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! The same goes for ground turkey; it’s just as lean. Make sure it is cooked to 165°F.

How do I keep chicken meatloaf moist?

Moisture-rich ingredients such as milk and egg should be added, and do not overbake. Resting helps retain juices in the meatloaf before slicing.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, shape the meatloaf and place it in a greased slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Glaze it in the last hour.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Almond flour can be easily substituted for breadcrumbs, and it has a sugar-free ketchup glaze.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can also use a bigger loaf pan or make two smaller loaves. Baking time might increase, and you should check the internal temperature for doneness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe offers a great option for a weeknight dinner or an extra-special occasion.

Everyone loves its bold flavour, tender texture, and versatility.

Try it today, and make sure to tag your photos on Pinterest and Instagram!

Read More:- Mediterranean Chicken Casserole