Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe – Easy & Delicious Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Looking for a cozy, comforting dinner recipe that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! This dish is a modern twist on the classic meatloaf, using ground chicken for a lighter, healthier option while still delivering the rich, savory taste your family craves. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why settle for ordinary meatloaf when you can elevate your meal with Parmesan cheese, aromatic garlic, and Italian seasoning? This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious layer of melted mozzarella and marinara sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s easier to make than you might think. Let’s dive into the details!


Introduction: PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

When it comes to comfort food, meatloaf is a timeless classic. But have you tried making it with ground chicken? This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes the traditional recipe to a whole new level. It’s lighter than beef meatloaf but just as satisfying, thanks to a blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs. The optional topping of mozzarella and marinara sauce adds a cheesy, tangy finish that’s irresistible.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great option for holiday dinners or potlucks, as it’s easy to scale up and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies by finely chopping carrots, celery, or zucchini and mixing them into the meat mixture.

Using ground chicken as the base makes this meatloaf a healthier alternative to beef or pork versions. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs and milk keep the loaf moist and tender. Whether you’re serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad, this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is sure to impress.


Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe might also be referred to as Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf or simply Parmesan Meatloaf. If you’re looking for variations, consider swapping the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different twist. You could also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, instead of mozzarella for the topping.

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Ingredients: PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

To make this delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1½ lb ground chicken
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup milk
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Topping:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup marinara sauce


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the mixture.

3. Shape the loaf. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

4. Bake. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.

5. Add the topping. After 40 minutes, remove the loaf from the oven and spread the marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Finish baking. Return the loaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest and serve. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Chef Tip: For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the mixture.


Recipe Card Block

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and 55 minutes to cook, making it a total time of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It serves 4 generously, with each slice containing approximately 350 calories.


Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What makes this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf stand out is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty richness, while the Italian seasoning and garlic infuse the loaf with aromatic goodness. The milk and breadcrumbs ensure the meatloaf stays moist, and the optional topping of mozzarella and marinara sauce adds a cheesy, saucy finish that’s utterly delicious.

Expert Tips:
– Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it helps the loaf hold together when slicing.
– For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.


Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf in slices or as a whole loaf for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal.


People Also Ask: PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

How do you make chicken meatloaf moist and flavorful?

To keep chicken meatloaf moist, use a combination of milk and breadcrumbs, which act as binding agents and add moisture. Adding grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs enhances the flavor. Avoid overmixing the meat, as this can result in a denser texture.

Can you add Parmesan cheese to the chicken mixture?

Absolutely! Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe. It adds a rich, savory flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist. Freshly grated Parmesan works best for maximum flavor.

What sauce complements Parmesan chicken meatloaf?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice for this recipe, as it pairs beautifully with the Parmesan and mozzarella topping. However, you could also use Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a simple gravy for variety.

Can you make Parmesan chicken meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. You can also bake the meatloaf fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge or freezer for later.


Conclusion: PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below!


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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a lighter twist on a classic comfort food, packed with Italian flavor from Parmesan, herbs, and marinara sauce. It’s juicy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment and lightly grease.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce. Mix until just combined.
  3. Form the mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, then remove from oven.
  5. Top with extra marinara and shredded mozzarella. Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

Ground chicken can be swapped with turkey. Serve with roasted veggies or pasta for a full meal.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: parmesan chicken meatloaf, chicken meatloaf, italian meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food