Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf


 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✨ Lighter & Healthier – Made with lean ground chicken, this meatloaf is a healthier alternative to traditional beef versions without compromising on flavor.
✨ Packed with Flavor – A savory blend of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs makes every bite rich and satisfying.
✨ Moist & Tender – Breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan ensure a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
✨ Easy to Customize – Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or spices to make it your own.
✨ Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for slicing and storing, making weeknight dinners effortless.

Ingredients

Serves 6–8

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground chicken (or turkey)

  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or panko)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make It

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently with your hands or a spatula—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf light and tender.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Smooth the top with a spatula or your hands.

4. Add the Topping

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.

5. Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Why This Recipe Works

💡 Ground Chicken Magic – Absorbs seasonings beautifully while staying tender.
🧀 Cheesy Goodness – Parmesan adds depth and richness.
🔥 Topping Perfection – The marinara-Parmesan combo creates a delicious caramelized crust.

Variations to Try

🌿 Add Veggies – Mix in spinach, shredded zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
🌶 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
🌾 Gluten-Free Option – Use almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
🌱 Herbaceous Twist – Swap dried herbs for fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary.
🥑 Low-Carb Version – Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Tips for Success

✔ Don’t Overmix – Overworking the meat makes it dense.
✔ Let It Rest – This keeps it from falling apart when sliced.
✔ Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Serving Ideas

🍷 Elegant Dinner – Drizzle with balsamic glaze and fresh herbs.
🍳 Brunch Staple – Pair with scrambled eggs and roasted potatoes.
🎉 Party Favorite – Serve with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a fresh take on a classic comfort food. It’s flavorful, moist, and endlessly customizable, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.

👩‍🍳 Have you ever made chicken meatloaf before? Drop your favorite twists and serving ideas in the comments below! 🍗✨