Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, with the same satisfying texture and taste. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and ground chicken creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. These individual meatloaves cook faster than a large meatloaf, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy, cheesy exterior and tender interior will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground chicken
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup milk
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
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1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional, for topping)
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Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, parsley (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
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Shape the meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (or more for smaller meatloaves) and shape them into mini loaf shapes, placing them in the prepared baking dish.
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Top with marinara sauce (optional): If desired, spoon a small amount of marinara sauce on top of each meatloaf for added flavor and a nice, glossy finish.
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Bake the meatloaves: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaves reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re using marinara sauce, you can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top of the meatloaves in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Enjoy: Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4 (or more, depending on portion size)
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Preparation time: 10 minutes
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Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
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Total time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
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Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
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Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make the meatloaf gluten-free.
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Cheesy interior: Add a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the center of each mini meatloaf for a cheesy surprise when you cut into them.
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Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
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Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to ground chicken. You can substitute it in equal amounts for a similar texture and flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaves and store them in the fridge before baking. Bake them when you’re ready to eat, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze these meatloaves?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaves. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking time.
4. Can I make this recipe without the egg?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute like a flax egg or a bit of unsweetened applesauce to help bind the meat mixture together.
5. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C). The meatloaf should also be firm to the touch and golden brown on top.
6. Can I add more cheese to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can mix shredded cheese directly into the meat mixture for added flavor, or sprinkle extra cheese on top in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a savory and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. With the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan, these mini meatloaves are sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is simple, adaptable, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, a side salad, or roasted vegetables, these meatloaves are sure to impress. Enjoy a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are savory, juicy, and flavorful individual portions of meatloaf made with ground chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, offering a lighter take on the classic meatloaf with a cheesy, crispy exterior.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (or more depending on portion size)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional, for topping)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 mini meatloafs (or more, if smaller portions) and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- If desired, top each meatloaf with a spoonful of marinara sauce for added flavor.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloafs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add extra Parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, you can mix shredded cheese into the meatloaf mixture before baking.Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.These mini meatloafs freeze well—freeze before or after baking and reheat as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatloaf
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 125mg