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Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

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Transform a classic comfort food into a flavorful, protein-packed delight with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Tender ground chicken combines with garlic, parmesan, and a mix of herbs for a juicy, savory dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for special occasions.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

  • Unique Twist on a Classic: Swaps beef for chicken for a lighter, yet still satisfying, meatloaf.
  • Garlic Parmesan Perfection: The bold flavors of garlic and parmesan shine in every bite.
  • Easy and Convenient: Minimal prep and bakes to perfection in under an hour.
  • Healthy and Wholesome: High in protein and easily adaptable to dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Gather these simple ingredients for a flavor-packed meatloaf:

Meatloaf Base:

  • 1.5 lbs ground chicken
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Topping:

  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a standard loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

  1. Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Press the mixture gently to shape it evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and parmesan cheese.
  2. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a rich, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake the meatloaf for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  2. For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

  • Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, classic side that complements the savory flavors.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are great choices.
  • Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the meatloaf.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and parmesan cheese make a huge difference in flavor.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a tough meatloaf.
  • Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center is fully cooked.
  • Let It Rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier loaf.

Variations and Customizations

  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the mix.
  • Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Vegetable Boost: Mix in grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and provides a similar texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatloaf?
Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warm, or use a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the plate to retain moisture.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the baked or unbaked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The baking time may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
Ensure you use the correct ratio of breadcrumbs and eggs to bind the mixture properly.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is an easy, flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, sure to impress family and friends. Its savory, cheesy taste combined with a tender texture makes it a standout choice for any meal. Give it a try, and watch it become a family favorite!

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