Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts that make dinner a chore rather than a pleasure? Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a juicy, flavorful alternative that melts in your mouth and brings comfort to your table.

At dishfoody.com, crafting recipes that combine simplicity, taste, and heartwarming family appeal is a passion. This chicken meatloaf blends tender ground chicken with aromatic garlic and sharp Parmesan cheese, delivering moist, rich bites every time.

This article covers why this recipe works, choosing the best chicken, careful ingredient prep, step-by-step cooking guidance, pro tips, flavorful variations, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions.

Why This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe Works

• Uses affordable, easy-to-source ground chicken and pantry essentials
• Marinate or season in minutes allowing full flavor without complicated prep
• Perfectly moist texture balanced with cheese and garlic for elegance and everyday eating

Choosing the Right Meat for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Best Cuts for This Recipe

Opt for lean ground chicken breast or a mix of thigh and breast for ideal balance of flavor and moisture.

Buying Tips

Choose fresh, bright pink ground chicken with minimal packaging liquid. Buy from trusted stores or butchers to ensure freshness.

Substitutions

Ground turkey or lean veal can substitute ground chicken. For a richer taste, mix in finely chopped cooked mushrooms or spinach.

Ingredients & Prep for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Meat Prep Essentials

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Marinades/Rubs

No traditional marinades needed; flavor develops through seasoning and resting slightly before baking.

Pantry Staples

Olive oil or butter for greasing bakeware, optional ketchup or barbecue sauce for glazing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Pre-Cooking Prep for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper. Mix eggs and milk to blend, finely chop vegetables and garlic.

Cooking Method for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using hands or utensils until just combined.
2. Transfer mixture to prepared pan, shape into a loaf, smooth the top.
3. Optional: Spread ketchup or BBQ glaze evenly on top.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached and the meatloaf is golden.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Doneness Check for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Use a digital thermometer to check internal temp of 165°F. Meatloaf surface should be slightly browned.

Resting for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Rest to let juices redistribute and keep the meatloaf moist and sliceable.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix to avoid dense texture; mix until ingredients just combined.
• Use fresh Parmesan for brighter flavor.
• Let the meatloaf rest to slice cleanly without crumbling.

Flavor Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Spicy Twist

Add red pepper flakes or chipotle powder for warmth.

Keto/Paleo

Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Global Flavors

• Mediterranean: Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Asian: Incorporate ginger, soy sauce, and green onions.
• Italian: Use basil, oregano, and top with marinara sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Enjoy with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp side salad. Pairs well with Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir.

FAQs for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Can I use frozen ground chicken?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry.

How to fix dry meatloaf?
Add a moist sauce or serve with gravy.

Is it safe for pregnant women?
Yes, ensure chicken is fully cooked and cheese is pasteurized.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty flavors and moisture with simple prep. Whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. For more meal inspiration, visit dishfoody.com and try our Cider-Maple Spatchcock Chicken next.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Print Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food made with ground chicken, fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs for a juicy, cheesy dinner that everyone will love.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Yield: 1 meatloaf (serves 4–6) 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced (for topping)

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
• 2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, and milk.
• 3. Mix gently until just combined.
• 4. Transfer mixture into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
• 5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until cooked through.
• 6. In a small bowl, mix melted butter and minced garlic.
• 7. Brush garlic butter over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
• 8. Return to oven and bake another 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• 9. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
• Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, ground chicken recipe, healthy comfort food, easy dinner