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Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that delights every palate? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not just tasty; it’s simple to make and perfect for the family table. With rich flavors that blend beautifully, this dish brings comfort and joy to your meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will make this flavorful family dish a favorite in your home!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: This meatloaf uses ground chicken, making it a leaner option compared to traditional beef meatloaf.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor that elevates this dish.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meatloaf in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving: This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it adaptable to different tastes and occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
For this tasty dish, you will need:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Each ingredient plays a key role. Ground chicken gives the meatloaf its base. Breadcrumbs add structure and help bind the loaf. Parmesan cheese brings a rich flavor. Minced garlic and chopped onion add depth. Fresh parsley adds brightness and color. The egg and milk ensure moisture in every bite.
Optional Add-ins
You can get creative with add-ins. Consider:
– Chopped bell peppers for crunch
– Shredded carrots for sweetness
– Diced mushrooms for umami
These options let you customize the meatloaf. Mix and match to fit your taste and what you have on hand.
Recommended Seasonings
Seasoning is vital for flavor. I suggest:
– Salt and pepper for basic taste
– Italian seasoning for a herby note
– A dash of hot sauce for a kick
Feel free to adjust the spices. Your personal touch will make this dish even better. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground chicken. Then, toss in 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Next, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Now, mince 2 cloves of garlic and throw them in. Don’t forget 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped finely. You also need 1 small onion, finely chopped. Crack 1 large egg into the bowl. Pour in 1/4 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix everything well until all the ingredients blend smoothly.
Shaping and Glazing the Meatloaf
Now, shape the mixture into a loaf. You can use a greased loaf pan or a lined baking sheet if you want a crusty outside. Make sure it holds its shape well. After that, take 1/4 cup of ketchup and spread it evenly on top of the meatloaf. This glaze gives a sweet touch and a nice color.
Baking Instructions and Temperature
Place your meatloaf in the oven. Bake it for about 45 to 55 minutes. To know if it’s done, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once baked, let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting time keeps the meatloaf juicy and easy to slice. After resting, slice it into thick pieces. Serve it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Keep the Meatloaf Moist
To keep your meatloaf moist, do not overmix the ingredients. Mix just until combined. Use ground chicken, as it has less fat than beef. Adding milk helps, too. The egg binds everything and keeps it tender. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes. This step keeps juices inside.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
I love to serve the meatloaf sliced on a platter. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color. Another great option is to serve it with a side salad. It brightens the meal and adds crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overbaking the meatloaf. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Do not skip the rest time after baking. This step is key to keeping it juicy. Lastly, be careful not to add too much salt. Too much salt can overwhelm the flavors.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic will enhance the flavor of your meatloaf significantly. Avoid dried herbs for the best taste.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps retain moisture and makes for cleaner slices.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to mix in a bit of brown sugar or balsamic vinegar with the ketchup for a more complex flavor in your glaze.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or carrots into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.

Variations
Alternative Proteins for Meatloaf
You can swap the ground chicken for other meats. Turkey is a great choice. It keeps the dish light and tasty. If you want more flavor, try ground beef or pork. Both add richness to the meatloaf. You can even use plant-based proteins. Lentils or mashed chickpeas work well for a veggie option.
Flavor Additions and Switch-ups
Mixing in different flavors can make your meatloaf unique. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. You can also toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. They add moisture and crunch. For a spicy kick, try diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting for your family.
Gluten-Free Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free meatloaf, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well as regular ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers. If you want to skip the breadcrumbs, try using oats. They help bind the meatloaf without gluten. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are safe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Meatloaf
To store leftover meatloaf, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps the meatloaf fresh for up to three days in the fridge.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to save meatloaf for later, freezing works great. Cut the meatloaf into slices for easy servings. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy it for up to three months. Just label the bag with the date.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
To reheat meatloaf, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf slices in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but it may not taste as good. If using a microwave, heat for one to two minutes. Check if it’s warm enough before eating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey instead of chicken. Turkey gives a similar taste and texture. Choose ground turkey that is not too lean. A mix of dark and light meat works best. This keeps the meatloaf juicy while still being healthy.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should reach 165°F (75°C) when done. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have one, look for clear juices when you slice it. The meat should not be pink inside. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it moist.
What are some sides that pair well with meatloaf?
Many sides go well with meatloaf. Here are some favorites:
– Mashed potatoes
– Steamed green beans
– Roasted carrots
– Creamy coleslaw
– Garlic bread
These sides add color and flavor to your meal. They also help soak up the tasty juices from the meatloaf.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I shared variations and how to store leftovers to keep them fresh.
In conclusion, making this meatloaf is easy and fun. With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll have a meal that pleases everyone. Try it today and enjoy a new favorit
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
A delicious and moist chicken meatloaf infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, topped with a sweet ketchup glaze.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 55 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan (or on a lined baking sheet for a crustier exterior).
Spread the ketchup evenly on top of the meatloaf to create a sweet glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing. This helps to keep it moist.
Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped parsley for freshness.
Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, garlic, meatloaf, Parmesan
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