 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf, featuring ground chicken blended with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings. It’s moist, flavorful, and pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This healthier alternative to beef meatloaf is high in protein and lower in fat, making it a great choice for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely diced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ cup milk (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and milk. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly.
- Add topping: Spread ketchup over the top and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for the Best Chicken Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
- Add a glaze by mixing ketchup with a bit of honey or balsamic vinegar.
- Substitutions: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour for a low-carb option.
- Make it cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella to the mix for extra gooeyness.
- Moisture matters: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more milk or broth.
Servings
- Yields: 4-6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fats: ~10g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~450mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- High in protein – Helps with muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Lower in fat – A leaner alternative to beef meatloaf.
- Rich in garlic – Boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Parmesan adds calcium – Supports bone health.
- Versatile & meal-prep friendly – Stores well for leftovers.
Q & A
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s not too lean (aim for 93% lean/7% fat) to keep it moist.
Q2: How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?
Adding milk or broth helps keep it moist. Avoid overbaking and let it rest before slicing.
Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead.
Q4: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Q5: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal with a healthy twist. Let me know if you want any modifications or serving suggestions!