Here’s a savory and juicy twist on traditional meatloaf—Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. It’s packed with flavor from fresh garlic, parmesan, and herbs, and it bakes up tender and juicy thanks to the lean ground chicken and the right moisture mix.
🍗 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Serves: 4–6 | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 45 min
🧄 Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup (45g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs or panko
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for brushing)
🧀 Optional Topping:
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan + 2 tbsp breadcrumbs mixed together
- A sprinkle of mozzarella or provolone (optional, for melty top)
🔪 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment or lightly grease it.
- Mix breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl and let sit for 2–3 minutes to soften.
- Combine all meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl: ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, onion powder, salt, pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Shape into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press into a loaf pan. For a crispier crust, free-form is better.
- Top with breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture (if using) and a light drizzle of olive oil.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil the top for the last 2–3 minutes if you want a golden crust.
- Rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp Caesar salad.
- Leftovers make excellent meatloaf sandwiches!
🧊 Make Ahead & Storage:
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate raw up to 1 day before baking.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly before or after baking and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm slices gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth for moisture.