There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a meatloaf baking in the oven, filling the air with warmth and nostalgia. This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is an easy dinner that combines savory flavors and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite across the board. It’s been trending for good reasonwho doesn’t love a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug?
Imagine a classic meatloaf, but made lighter and brighter with juicy chicken and a hearty sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s simple, comforting, and sure to surprise you with its rich flavor. You won’t need a lot of fancy ingredients herejust some pantry staples and a handful of fresh herbs. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can whip it up ahead of time for busy nights!
I started perfecting this recipe back in 2017, right after I moved to a new town and wanted to bring some comfort into our dinners. The first time I served it, my neighbor stopped by, and we ended up sharing the whole loaf over laughter and stories. The key I discovered is mixing the chicken with breadcrumbs and egg just until combinedovermixing can make it tough. As someone who’s been sharing cozy recipes for years, I promise, this one will quickly become a staple in your home.
Yesica Andrews
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: An Easy and Delicious Recipe
This parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe offers a cheesy chicken loaf bake that is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a hearty dinner, this tender juicy chicken meatloaf combines savory herbs and garlic with a crispy topped chicken loaf glaze, making it a comforting meal everyone will love.
2 pounds Ground Chicken or ground turkey or lean pork
1 cup Parmesan Cheese shredded or Romano cheese
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
2 large Eggs for binding
4 cloves Minced Garlic adjust to taste
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste
1/2 cup Whole Milk or plant milk if dairy-free
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter for glaze
1/4 cup Additional Parmesan for sprinkling
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley for garnish
Method
Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) and get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, shredded Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil and parsley, salt, pepper, and milk until just mixed.
Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into the greased loaf pan.
Bake the meatloaf for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
While the meatloaf bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.
Stir in the additional Parmesan and fresh parsley, letting the glaze thicken slightly before removing from heat.
Once the meatloaf has baked, brush the garlic Parmesan butter glaze evenly on top.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes to set the glaze.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve each slice garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This meatloaf keeps well and is perfect for meal prepping, making ahead of time is convenient for busy schedules.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting Goodness: This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a warm and cozy dish that brings back nostalgic family dinners.
Healthy Twist: Made with lean chicken and packed with flavor, it’s a lighter take on traditional meatloaf.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginner cooks.
Versatile Meal: Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it slices beautifully for stuffing sandwiches or serving with veggies.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Let’s break down the essentials you’ll need to whip up this delightful meatloaf.
Ground Chicken: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, it’s lighter than beef.
Parmesan Cheese: For that rich, cheesy comfort that elevates the entire dish.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These bring a delightful crunch while keeping the meatloaf moist.
Garlic & Herbs: They infuse it with unforgettable flavordon’t skimp on this!
Basic Kitchen Tools: Just a mixing bowl, loaf pan, and an oven will do the trick!
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your baking sheet or loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine your ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, and seasonings. Stir gently until just mixed.
Shape & Bake: Form your mixture into a loaf and transfer it to the pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
Create the Glaze: As it bakes, melt butter with garlic; stir in more Parmesan and parsley. Brush it over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for an extra few minutes.
Rest & Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley for that perfect touch!
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Dry?: If your meatloaf turns out dry, try adding a bit more milk next time for moisture.
Crumbly Texture? Ensure you’re not overmixing your ingredients, as that can lead to a tough texture.
Flavor Boost: Feel free to add more garlic or herbs to fit your taste!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is incredibly versatile!
Serve Hot: Pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a comforting dinner.
Sandwich Filling: Use leftovers in sandwiches for a delicious lunch!
Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for a quick meal later.
Storage Tips Table
Storage Method
Duration
Refrigerator
Up to 3 Days
Freezer
Up to 3 Months
Expert Says
Using Parmesan in your chicken meatloaf not only adds depth of flavor but also enhances its moisture content. The cheese’s natural fat helps bind the ingredients and keeps the meatloaf tender, while its umami notes elevate the overall taste, making the dish irresistible.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Quest for the Ultimate Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
After a few kitchen mishaps, including one meatloaf that proclaimed its independence by sliding off the baking sheet, I finally perfected this Parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe. The blend of flavors and that cheesy crust make it a cozy family favorite that’s both comforting and healthy.
FAQs ( Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf )
What is the best way to serve this dish?
This meal pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the flavors nicely. For a complete dinner, consider adding steamed vegetables on the side.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe. It can provide a leaner option while still maintaining the flavorful outcome. Just be sure to adjust seasoning as needed.
How do I keep the meatloaf moist?
To keep the meatloaf moist, be sure not to overmix the ingredients. Adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk or a bit of extra chicken broth also helps retain moisture during baking. Cover with foil during the first half of baking if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can bake it, let it cool, and then reheat it before serving. This helps develop the flavors even more.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful blend of comfort and flavor, baking to golden perfection in just under an hour. The irresistible aroma will invite your family to the tabletrust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Feel free to swap out the Parmesan for cheddar or add a splash of your favorite sauce for a flavor twist. When it comes to leftovers, simply warm slices in the oven for a cozy meal on busy days. A tip I cherish from my grandmother’s kitchen is to always let it rest before slicingperfectly juicy every time!
Have fond memories of meatloaf growing up? I’d love to hear about them! Share your delicious creations or any variations you try. Save or share this recipe with loved ones; let’s bring a little more comfort into our kitchens together!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
