Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

The Juiciest Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe Ever

Comfort meets innovation in this delightful garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Savory aromas will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

Classic meatloaf gets a delicious makeover through clever ingredient swaps and unexpected flavor combinations.

Juicy ground chicken replaces traditional beef, creating a lighter yet equally satisfying main course.

Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic weave magic into every single bite, ensuring maximum taste excitement.

Weeknight meals never looked so tempting or felt so effortless.

Dive in and make this recipe your new family favorite – trust me, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

For the Meat:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean protein that serves as the primary base for the meatloaf and provides a lighter alternative to traditional beef.
For the Aromatics and Herbs:
  • Garlic, Parsley, Dried Oregano: These ingredients add depth of flavor and provide a fresh, aromatic profile to the chicken meatloaf.
For the Binding and Moisture:
  • Egg, Milk: These ingredients help bind the meatloaf together and ensure a tender, moist texture throughout the dish.
For the Texture and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: These components add structure to the meatloaf and contribute a rich, savory taste.
For the Seasoning:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: These classic seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the meatloaf.
For the Cooking and Finishing:
  • Olive Oil: This ingredient helps prevent sticking, promotes browning, and adds a subtle richness to the meatloaf.

Steps To Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Easily

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and grab a standard loaf pan. Quickly brush the inside with a light coat of olive oil to keep everything from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Chicken Magic

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Ground chicken
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped parsley
  • Dried oregano

Swirl everything together so the herbs dance through the meat.

Step 3: Add Moisture Makers

Crack a fresh egg into the bowl and splash in some milk. This secret combo will make your meatloaf incredibly juicy and tender.

Step 4: Create Flavor Boost

Sprinkle over the meat mixture:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently fold the ingredients, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

Step 5: Shape The Masterpiece

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down smoothly to create an even surface, keeping the texture light and airy.

Step 6: Drizzle Goodness

Splash a bit of olive oil across the top of the meatloaf. This will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust and add extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 55-60 minutes until a meat thermometer reads 165°F at the center.

Step 8: Rest And Settle

Pull the meatloaf out and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice super succulent.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf into hearty portions. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve piping hot and watch everyone dig in!

Helpful Tips For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Select High-Quality Chicken: Choose lean ground chicken with minimal fat content for a lighter, healthier meatloaf that stays moist without becoming greasy.
  • Avoid Overmixing Meat: Gently fold ingredients together to prevent tough, dense texture, ensuring a tender and delicate meatloaf with perfect consistency.
  • Boost Flavor Intensity: Add extra herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary to elevate the overall taste profile and create a more complex, aromatic dish.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F, guaranteeing safe cooking and preventing potential foodborne illnesses.
  • Enhance Moisture Retention: Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help juices redistribute, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful final product.

Fun Spins On Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Meatloaf: Replace parsley with diced jalapeños and add a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Meatloaf: Swap oregano for za'atar seasoning and mix in crumbled feta cheese for a tangy Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Almond Flour Meatloaf: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour and use gluten-free parmesan to create a low-carb, celiac-friendly version.
  • Lean Protein Veggie Meatloaf: Incorporate finely chopped spinach and grated zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrition and moisture.

Perfect Pairings For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Craft Complementary Wine Pairing: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir to enhance the chicken meatloaf's delicate flavors, balancing its savory profile with subtle fruit undertones.
  • Elevate Side Dish Selection: Roast seasonal root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes to create a hearty accompaniment that matches the meatloaf's robust texture and brings warmth to the plate.
  • Design Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the meatloaf to add brightness, cutting through the richness and providing a zesty, clean finish to each bite.

Storage Advice For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, lasting up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
  • Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it reaches 165°F throughout.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place meatloaf slices in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to prevent drying, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated completely.

FAQ Guide For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

  • Is ground chicken healthier than beef for meatloaf?

Ground chicken is leaner and lower in calories compared to beef, making it a healthier protein option with less saturated fat.

  • Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a gluten-free version of the recipe.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Adding milk and egg helps maintain moisture, while not overmixing the meat ensures a tender texture. Drizzling olive oil on top also contributes to keeping the meatloaf juicy.

  • What herbs complement ground chicken meatloaf best?

Parsley and oregano work excellently, but you can also experiment with thyme, rosemary, or fresh basil for additional flavor dimensions.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Is Extra Flavorful

  • Create Deliciously Light Protein Dish: Ground chicken transforms traditional meatloaf into a healthier alternative packed with lean protein and incredible flavor.
  • Master Simple Cooking Technique: This recipe requires minimal culinary skills, making it perfect for beginners who want to develop basic cooking confidence without complex preparation steps.
  • Customize with Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap herbs, add different cheeses, or include vegetables to match personal taste preferences and kitchen inventory without compromising the core recipe structure.
  • Enjoy Family-Friendly Comfort Food: A crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both adults and children, delivering nutritious protein in a familiar, comforting format that encourages shared dining experiences.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe


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4.5 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf brings classic comfort to dinner tables with its savory blend of ground chicken, herbs, and melted cheese. Mediterranean-inspired flavors and hearty texture make this dish perfect for satisfying hungry families who crave simple yet delicious home cooking.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Aromatics and Herbs

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Binding and Moisture

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a standard loaf pan by lightly greasing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dried oregano, ensuring the aromatics are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
  3. Crack the egg into the mixture and pour in the milk, which will help create a tender and moist texture for the meatloaf.
  4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the meat mixture, along with grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, gently folding the ingredients together until just combined.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, carefully pressing it down to create a compact and uniform shape without overworking the meat.
  6. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the meatloaf to enhance browning and add a subtle richness.
  7. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
  8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and making it easier to slice.
  9. Slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Prevent dryness by using ground chicken with a slightly higher fat content, which helps maintain moisture and prevents the meatloaf from becoming tough.
  • Enhance flavor depth by sautéing garlic briefly before adding to the mixture, releasing its aromatic compounds and softening its raw intensity.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers, maintaining the binding properties while accommodating dietary restrictions.
  • Boost nutritional value by incorporating finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture, adding hidden vegetables and extra moisture to the meatloaf.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 322
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 473 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

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