🍗 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Moist, flavorful, and packed with savory garlic-Parmesan goodness! This lighter twist on traditional meatloaf uses lean ground chicken and bakes up juicy with a crispy golden crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food—high in protein, lower in fat, and full of bold flavor.
🧾 Ingredients 🛒
- 1.5 lbs (680g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for brushing top)
Optional Topping:
- 2 tbsp extra Parmesan
- Chopped parsley for garnish
🔧 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, egg, milk, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix or it can become dense).
- Form loaf: Transfer mixture to loaf pan or shape by hand on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Smooth the top and optionally brush with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Broil finish (optional): In the last 3–5 minutes, sprinkle with more Parmesan and broil for a golden crust.
- Rest and slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes 6 servings
📝 Notes:
- Ground chicken tends to be softer than beef, so it’s normal if the texture feels moist—resting helps firm it up.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- You can swap milk with chicken broth for extra savory flavor.
💡 Tips:
- Add-ins: Try mixing in chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for a Mediterranean twist.
- Meal prep: Slice and store in containers with veggies or grains for easy lunches.
- Cheese swap: Try using a blend of Parmesan and shredded mozzarella for a gooier result.
🔢 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – 6 total):
Approximate values
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Calcium: 15% RDI
✅ Health Benefits:
- High protein from lean chicken and eggs supports muscle repair and satiety.
- Lower fat than traditional beef meatloaf.
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium and flavor without excess fat.
- Garlic offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well with the same seasoning.
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate the loaf for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. Freeze raw (wrapped well) or baked slices. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Why is my meatloaf watery?
A: Ground chicken has high water content. Be sure not to overmix, and let it rest after baking to reabsorb moisture.