Imagine a meatloaf that not only fills your belly but also tickles your taste buds with its savory richness. Meet the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, a dish so delightful that even your childhood self would approve! With its golden crust and cheesy interior, this meatloaf is more than just comfort food; itβs a warm hug on a plate that makes every dinner feel special.
Picture this: youβre gathered around the dinner table, laughter fills the air, and the aroma of Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf wafts through the room. Memories of family gatherings surge back as you slice into this masterpiece, revealing layers of flavor and gooey cheese. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy Sunday gathering, this recipe promises an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This incredible meatloaf combines ease of preparation with rich flavors that everyone will adore.
- Its visual appeal makes it a showstopper at any dinner table.
- The versatile recipe allows for endless customization based on your favorite ingredients.
- Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra protein without anyone noticing!
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep it healthy while still being juicy and flavorful.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and helps bind the meatloaf together perfectly.
- Fresh Parsley: Use chopped fresh parsley for brightness and a pop of color; it enhances both taste and presentation.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion provides moisture and sweetness, making each bite tender and flavorful.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth without overpowering the other flavorsβperfect for meatloaf lovers.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and help absorb moisture in the mix.
- Eggs: Two eggs work as binders in this recipe, keeping everything together while adding richness.
- Salt & Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those fantastic flavors working together!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Itβs important to get that oven nice and hot before you pop in your masterpiece!
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Spray a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Trust me; you donβt want your beautiful meatloaf stuck in there like an unwelcome guest.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, onion, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands! It’s like giving your ingredients a spa dayβmix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top so it looks all fancy because presentation mattersβeven when itβs just family!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Place your beautifully shaped meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C). Youβll know itβs done when it’s golden brown and smells like heaven.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about ten minutes before slicing. This allows all those delicious juices to redistributeβno one likes dry meatloaf!
Slice into thick pieces and serve with your favorite sides. Whether it’s mashed potatoes or a bright salad, you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Enjoy every bite of this cheesy delight that is sure to become a family favoriteβthe Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf awaits!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken meatloaf first to lock in those savory juices, then bake while preparing your favorite sides. This sequence keeps everything organized and ensures perfect results every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices or add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra kick. You can even experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for unique flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350Β°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 165Β°F for perfect chicken meatloaf.
- Let it rest before slicing to keep those juices flowing.
- Try adding breadcrumbs for extra texture and flavor!
I once made this Parmesan chicken meatloaf for a family gathering, and the smiles around the table were pricelessβeveryone went back for seconds! The secret? A splash of lemon juice that brightened up every bite.
FAQs:
What is Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf made with ground chicken and enhanced with grated Parmesan cheese. This dish is moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Itβs perfect for family dinners or meal prep. By using chicken instead of pork, it’s a lighter option that still delivers on taste. You can serve it with a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
How can I make my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf juicier?
To make your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf juicier, consider adding moisture-rich ingredients like chopped onions or bell peppers. Incorporating wet breadcrumbs instead of dry can also help maintain moisture during cooking. Additionally, mixing in some vegetable broth or fruit juice will enhance the flavor while ensuring the meatloaf remains tender and juicy throughout.
Can I freeze Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! To do this, allow the meatloaf to cool completely after cooking. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
What are some good side dishes for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy option. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta provide a comforting side that complements the meatloaf beautifully. A fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish.
Conclusion for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
In summary, Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and versatile dish that appeals to many palates. By using chicken and incorporating delicious ingredients like Parmesan cheese, you create a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. Remember to experiment with different sides to enhance your dining experience further. Enjoy the process of making this savory dish and delight your family with every bite!

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the mouthwatering flavors of Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, a delicious twist on the classic dish. Made with lean ground chicken and enriched with fresh Parmesan cheese, this meatloaf offers a delightful combination of juicy texture and cheesy goodness. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, itβs a comforting and nutritious option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Prepare a loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (74Β°C) and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: To enhance moisture in your meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. For added flavor variations, try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment.