Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers a flavorful and healthier twist on traditional meatloaf. Made with lean ground chicken, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, this dish is moist, tender, and packed with herbs and garlic. Topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan cheese for topping
For Preparation
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese using your hands for even mixing.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped parsley, minced garlic, and finely chopped onion to the mixture, ensuring they are well distributed.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Crack the egg into the bowl and pour in the milk to bind the ingredients together.
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the mixture, then mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Mixture: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into an even loaf.
- Smooth the Top: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the surface of the meatloaf evenly.
- Spread Ketchup: Evenly spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.
- Optional Cheese: For added richness, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese over the ketchup topping.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes until cooked through.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for about 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice: Remove the meatloaf from the pan or slice it directly, cutting into approximately 1-inch thick pieces.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley, alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatloaf mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this recipe convenient for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
