If you’re looking for a comfort food classic with a fresh, flavorful twist, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe will quickly become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Juicy ground chicken combines beautifully with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese and the aromatic punch of garlic, creating a tender, moist meatloaf that’s both satisfying and light. With just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressively delicious—perfect for feeding the whole family or meal prepping for busy days ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients sets the foundation for an incredibly flavorful and well-textured meatloaf. Each element plays a vital role, from moisture to seasoning and a touch of cheesy goodness.
- Ground chicken: The lean, tender base that keeps this meatloaf lighter than traditional versions.
- Breadcrumbs: Bind the mixture and add a bit of heft without weighing it down.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness that elevates every bite.
- Minced garlic: Packs bold flavor and wonderfully aromatic depth.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the loaf together perfectly.
- Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the meatloaf tender as it bakes.
- Chopped parsley: Infuses freshness and a pop of vibrant color.
- Onion powder: Delivers gentle savory undertones that complement the garlic.
- Salt and black pepper: The classic seasoning duo that balances and enhances all flavors.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): Melts on top during baking for a gooey, golden finish.
- Optional garlic butter glaze: Made with melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley for an extra indulgent touch before serving.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to ensure your meatloaf won’t stick and will come out smoothly after baking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, milk, chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together just until combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, and we want it nice and tender!
Step 3: Shape Your Meatloaf
Take the mixture and shape it into a neat loaf directly on the baking sheet or press it evenly into your prepared loaf pan. This shape will help it cook evenly and develop that classic meatloaf look.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re adding mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the top during the last 5 minutes and switch to broil briefly to melt and brown the cheese beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter Glaze and Rest
For a truly unforgettable finish, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley to create a garlic butter glaze. Brush this over your meatloaf just as it comes out of the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing — this helps keep all those delicious juices locked inside.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lively green pop and enhances the fresh herb flavor. A light drizzle of the garlic butter glaze right before serving instantly boosts that irresistible aroma and taste.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of flavor. Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment that balances the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the meatloaf into thin pieces and serve it open-faced on a toasted baguette with arugula and a smear of garlic aioli. You can also make mini meatloaf muffins in a muffin tin, which are perfect for portion control or kid-friendly lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatloaf slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay delicious for up to 3 days and are perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Wrap whole or sliced meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it into a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it an awesome meal prep option.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftover slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. For the oven, cover slices with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to keep them moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well. It might be slightly leaner, so consider adding a bit more moisture like an extra tablespoon of milk.
Is it possible to make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture and flavor will still be delightful.
How can I make the meatloaf more moist?
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. These ingredients add moisture and tang without overpowering the garlic Parmesan flavors.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
You can assemble the mixture a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just keep it covered tightly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Is the mozzarella topping necessary?
Not at all! The meatloaf is delicious on its own. The mozzarella adds a melty, golden cheesy layer if you want a little extra indulgence.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about a well-made meatloaf, and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe brings that classic warmth with a light, fresh flair. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a wonderful candidate for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to dishes that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and tender main dish made with ground chicken, blended with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings. It’s baked to perfection and optionally topped with melty mozzarella and a savory garlic butter glaze for an extra touch of richness. Perfect for a hearty family dinner and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Optional Garlic Butter Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking surface by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing a loaf pan.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, milk, chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or press it firmly into the loaf pan to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Add Mozzarella (Optional): If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of baking. Switch the oven to broil briefly to melt and brown the cheese until bubbly and golden.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Glaze: While the meatloaf bakes or once it’s out of the oven, combine melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
- Glaze and Rest: Brush the garlic butter glaze over the hot meatloaf for added flavor just before serving. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices and make slicing easier.
Notes
- This meatloaf pairs excellently with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For added moisture and richness, you can stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of sour cream into the meat mixture before shaping.
- Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken if desired.
- To ensure the meatloaf doesn’t dry out, avoid overmixing the ingredients.
