Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is one of those dishes that brings warmth and comfort with each bite. Growing up, I vividly remember the rich scents of garlic and chicken wafting through the kitchen, signaling that dinner was something special. This meatloaf is not just any ordinary recipe; it transforms humble ingredients into a deliciously savory family favorite. Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is your go-to.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf stand out? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare: combine simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and you’re halfway to a delightful dinner. The panko breadcrumbs give it a wonderful texture, while the Parmesan brings an umami punch that elevates the dish from mundane to magical. Plus, it’s perfect for families—kids love it!
"This meatloaf was a hit with my entire family! The flavors of garlic and Parmesan are so delicious, and it was so moist! Definitely a do-over recipe!"
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Making this meatloaf is a breeze. Here’s a quick overview of the process: you’ll start by mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately, sautéing garlic, and then bringing everything together with ground chicken. After shaping your loaf in a greased pan, you’ll add a divine garlic butter topping before baking. It’s as easy as that!
Gather these items
To whip up your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
You can easily swap out the ground chicken for turkey if that’s what you have on hand!
Step-by-step instructions
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and lightly beaten eggs until frothy.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in panko bread crumbs, ½ cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
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Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Incorporate Garlic and Parsley: Pour the sautéed garlic and oil into the bowl with the other ingredients, then add chopped parsley.
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Add Ground Chicken: Gently fold in the ground chicken, mixing until everything is just combined.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
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Shape Meatloaf: Carefully transfer the mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf.
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Create Garlic Butter Topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic powder.
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Brush with Garlic Butter: Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of the meatloaf.
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Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese: Add some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor.
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Add Chicken Broth to the Pan: Pour chicken broth around the meatloaf in the bottom of the pan.
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Bake Meatloaf: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Check for Doneness: The meatloaf is done when the juices run clear when pierced and the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
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Rest Meatloaf: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
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Slice Meatloaf: Carefully slice into even portions and serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is delightful served with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Need something lighter? Pair it with a fresh garden salad or steamed asparagus. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkling of fresh herbs adds that restaurant-level touch. Don’t forget a slice of your favorite bread to soak up those delicious juices!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date for easy tracking!
Pro chef tips
For maximum flavor, try allowing your meatloaf mixture to sit for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture and the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, prep the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Consider adding finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or carrots for a health boost. You could also swap the ground chicken for a mix of pork and beef or try different types of cheese—think feta for a Mediterranean twist!
Common questions
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What is the prep time for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with baking time needing an additional 60-70 minutes. -
Can I substitute ground chicken with something else?
Yes, turkey or lean beef can be used in place of ground chicken, but this can alter the flavor. -
Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Now, you’re all set to create this heartwarming dish that will surely impress everyone at your dinner table!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and lightly beaten eggs until frothy.
- Stir in panko bread crumbs, ½ cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour the sautéed garlic and oil into the bowl with the other ingredients, then add chopped parsley.
- Gently fold in the ground chicken, mixing until everything is just combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Carefully transfer the mixture into the loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic powder.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of the meatloaf.
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor.
- Pour chicken broth around the meatloaf in the bottom of the pan.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- The meatloaf is done when the juices run clear when pierced and the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Carefully slice into even portions and serve immediately.
