This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe takes your classic meatloaf to a whole new level. Made with ground chicken, Parmesan, fresh garlic, and herbs, it’s juicy, flavorful, and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this meatloaf is both hearty and light, combining Italian-inspired flavors with the comforting texture of a homemade loaf. Serve it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced, delicious meal.
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground chicken
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¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 large eggs
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ yellow onion, finely chopped
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¼ cup milk
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping)
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1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or loaf pan.
Step 2: Prepare the meatloaf mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Mix thoroughly
Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 4: Shape the loaf
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape into a loaf approximately 8×4 inches.
Step 5: Brush with olive oil
Lightly brush the top with olive oil to encourage browning and a crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Add cheesy topping (optional)
During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and return to the oven to melt.
Step 8: Rest and slice
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variation
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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of mozzarella in the center before shaping the loaf.
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Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
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Mediterranean Twist: Swap parsley with fresh basil and add sun-dried tomatoes.
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Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
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Turkey Alternative: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Cooking Note
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Using freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor significantly.
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Make sure the onion is finely chopped to avoid large chunks in the meatloaf.
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Do not overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
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Brushing with olive oil gives the loaf a beautiful golden crust.
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Resting the meatloaf before slicing keeps it moist and flavorful.
Tips
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Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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Leftovers make great meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze individual slices for quick meals; reheat in the oven or microwave.
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Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 290
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 600mg
Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well and delivers a similar texture and flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or grated zucchini are great additions.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap slices individually or store the whole loaf in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe combines juicy ground chicken, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese into a flavorful, satisfying dish. The crispy, golden crust and cheesy, moist center make it an instant favorite. Whether served hot from the oven or as a hearty leftover sandwich, this meatloaf delivers comfort and bold flavors in every bite. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy a modern twist on a classic comfort food. 🍗🧄🧀
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
-
1 ½ lbs ground chicken
-
¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 large eggs
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
½ yellow onion, finely chopped
-
¼ cup milk
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
-
1 tsp Italian seasoning
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
¼ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping)
-
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or loaf pan.
Step 2: Prepare the meatloaf mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Mix thoroughly
Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 4: Shape the loaf
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape into a loaf approximately 8×4 inches.
Step 5: Brush with olive oil
Lightly brush the top with olive oil to encourage browning and a crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Add cheesy topping (optional)
During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and return to the oven to melt.
Step 8: Rest and slice
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
-
Using freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor significantly.
-
Make sure the onion is finely chopped to avoid large chunks in the meatloaf.
-
Do not overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
-
Brushing with olive oil gives the loaf a beautiful golden crust.
-
Resting the meatloaf before slicing keeps it moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 50 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 28 g