Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Hey there, friend! Today I want to share with you my absolute favorite recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser and will have your taste buds dancing with joy. I have so many fond memories of cooking this meatloaf for family gatherings and it always receives rave reviews. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This

I make this when I want a comforting and delicious meal that’s a little different from the traditional beef meatloaf. My family goes crazy for this because it’s incredibly tender and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the whole house while it bakes. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. You can’t go wrong with this recipe!

Ingredients

For the meatloaf, you will need:

1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional substitutions: If you’re in a hurry, you can use ground turkey instead of chicken. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. I sometimes add a pinch of dried oregano or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.

3. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Smooth out the top with your hands.

4. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender meatloaf.

6. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Notes

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that using fresh breadcrumbs yields the best texture for the meatloaf. If you only have dried breadcrumbs on hand, you can soak them in milk for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture.

Variations

I love experimenting with different flavors, and here are a couple of variations I’ve tried:

1. Spinach and Feta Meatloaf: Add a handful of chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor.

2. Sun-Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Meatloaf: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Feel free to get creative and come up with your own unique twists on this recipe!

Equipment

You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe. Just a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and your trusty oven will do the trick. If you don’t have a baking sheet, you can use a loaf pan instead. Simply shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the greased loaf pan before baking.

Storage

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Although, honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!

Serving Suggestions

I personally love serving this meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. The flavors complement each other perfectly. However, feel free to pair it with your favorite sides. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables would also be fantastic choices.

Pro Tips

After making this recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few valuable lessons:

1. Don’t skip the resting time. It might be tempting to dig in right away, but letting the meatloaf rest allows the flavors to intensify and ensures a moist and tender texture.

2. If you’re unsure about the doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) when the meatloaf is fully cooked.

3. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic accordingly.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

A: Absolutely! Once the meatloaf has cooled completely, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground beef for the chicken in this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly, so make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q: Can I make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf?

A: Of course! If you prefer individual portions, you can shape the mixture into smaller loaves and adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

I hope you give this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf a try. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress and will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones!

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf