When I think of comfort food, meatloaf always comes to mind. It’s that warm hug on a plate, isn’t it? This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes the classic dish and gives it a delightful twist.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor.
Imagine the aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting through your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner. Trust me, this dish will impress your loved ones and become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just over an hour from start to finish.
The combination of ground chicken and rich Parmesan creates a moist, flavorful dish that’s healthier than traditional meatloaf.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again, making it a family favorite!
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground chicken: The star of the show! It’s leaner than beef, making this dish healthier.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the meatloaf together. You can use plain or Italian-seasoned for extra flavor.
Grated Parmesan cheese: This brings a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Freshly grated is best!
Chopped fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness. It brightens up the meatloaf.
Diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth. You can use yellow or white onions, depending on your preference.
Minced garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It infuses the meatloaf with a savory aroma.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
Milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist. You can substitute with chicken broth for added flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the meatloaf an Italian flair.
Marinara sauce: This is for topping the meatloaf, adding a delicious layer of flavor. Feel free to swap it with barbecue sauce for a different twist.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
While the oven heats up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready to mix.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Add in the chopped parsley, diced onion, and minced garlic.
Crack in the egg and pour in the milk.
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Mix everything together gently until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender meatloaf, not a dense one!
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan.
With your hands, shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s even on all sides.
This helps it cook uniformly.
If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape it freeform on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
This adds a delicious layer of flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist while baking.
Feel free to get creative here; a drizzle of barbecue sauce can give it a smoky twist!
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
This is crucial for ensuring your chicken meatloaf is safe to eat.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
Slice it up and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Tips for Success
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the parsley and Parmesan.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it can lead to a tough meatloaf.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Experiment with different toppings like cheese or herbs for added flavor.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Equipment Needed
Loaf pan: Essential for shaping your meatloaf. A baking sheet works too!
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. Any bowl will do.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. Use your eyes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Meat thermometer: To check doneness. A simple knife can also work to test if it’s cooked through.
Variations
Spinach and Feta: Add chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a gooey, cheesy center.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Serving Suggestions
Classic sides: Pair your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.
Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the meatloaf.
Drinks: Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color and serve on a rustic wooden board.
FAQs about Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Curious about this delicious dish? Here are some common questions I often hear about Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar texture and flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F in the center. If you don’t have one, cut into the meatloaf; it should be no longer pink inside.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf? It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. You can also try it in a sandwich the next day!
Is this meatloaf suitable for freezing? Definitely! You can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The joy of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring each bite is what makes this dish special.
With its delightful flavors and comforting aroma, it transforms an ordinary dinner into a cherished experience.
Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a quiet night with family, this meatloaf is sure to bring smiles.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this recipe become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire!
A delicious twist on traditional meatloaf using ground chicken and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meat mixture.
You can also substitute the marinara sauce with barbecue sauce for a different taste.
