PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF BEST

I remember distinctly the first time I made meatloaf from scratch; my grandmother, Nana Elsie, stood beside me, her hands guiding mine as we mixed the ingredients, humming a tune all the while – it was a simple beef recipe, but her touch made it extraordinary, and now, I’m excited to share a twist on that classic with you: a delectable Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. This lighter, brighter version, bursting with savory Parmesan flavor, will become a family favorite, I promise you. Get ready to enjoy a moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Adore This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Let’s be honest, meatloaf sometimes gets a bad rap. People often associate it with being dry, bland, or just plain boring. But I’m here to tell you that this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is anything but! It’s a total game-changer, and here’s why:

• It’s Incredibly Moist: Ground chicken can sometimes dry out, but not in this recipe! We’ve got secret ingredients (I’ll reveal them soon!) to keep it juicy and tender.
• Bursting with Flavor: The Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty depth that elevates the chicken to a whole new level. Plus, we’re adding a few other flavor boosters for maximum deliciousness.
• Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy name fool you. This recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Healthier Option: Ground chicken is a leaner alternative to ground beef, making this meatloaf a slightly healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, slice it for sandwiches, or even crumble it into pasta dishes. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, most of them are pantry staples!

• Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! Look for lean ground chicken for the best results.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the most authentic flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can affect the texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs work best. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a slightly crunchier texture.
• Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together.
• Onion: Finely diced onion adds moisture and flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is a must for any savory dish!
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
• Milk: Milk helps to keep the meatloaf moist.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Okay, now for the fun part! Let’s walk through the steps of making this amazing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf together.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onion and garlic, Italian seasoning, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix Gently: Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
5. Shape the Meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also use a loaf pan if you prefer.
6. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Want to take your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf, avoiding the bottom.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Add Moisture: Ground chicken tends to be drier than ground beef, so adding moisture is key. The milk in this recipe helps, but you can also add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the mixture.
• Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking! Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Freeze for Later: Meatloaf freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing! For an extra creamy and flavorful version, try making Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
• Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Mac and Cheese: A kid-friendly favorite that pairs perfectly with meatloaf.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf? Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

• Use Ground Turkey: If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken.
• Add Cheese: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese for an extra cheesy meatloaf. Consider making Meatloaf With Cheese Mash for a full cheesy experience!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add a Glaze: Brush the meatloaf with a glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking. A simple glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce is delicious.
• Try a Parmesan Crust: Mix extra parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs and press onto the top of the meatloaf before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:

Can I use frozen ground chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before using it in the recipe. Drain any excess liquid before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning?

Yes, you can use a combination of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary in place of the Italian seasoning. Use about 1 teaspoon of each.

How long does meatloaf last in the refrigerator?

Cooked meatloaf will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I reheat meatloaf in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat meatloaf in the microwave, but it may dry out slightly. To prevent this, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the plate before microwaving.

What if my meatloaf falls apart?

This usually happens if the meatloaf is not mixed properly or if there is not enough binder (egg or breadcrumbs). Make sure to mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly, and add an extra egg if necessary.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Place the shaped meatloaf in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Other Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes: Another fantastic Parmesan chicken dish!
• Creamy Meatloaf And Mashed Potatoes: A hearty and comforting meal.
• Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A quick and easy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknights.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the add-ins and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. Made with lean ground chicken and savory Parmesan cheese, it’s a healthier and versatile option perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds ground chicken
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Meat thermometer
• Loaf pan (optional)

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onion and garlic, Italian seasoning, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Gently mix all ingredients together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also use a loaf pan if you prefer.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to check.
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a more moist meatloaf, add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the mixture. Get creative with add-ins like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms. Meatloaf can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Cooked meatloaf will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat meatloaf in the microwave, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the plate before microwaving.