Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Delicious Family Favorite
Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your family with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! This dish bursts with flavor, combining juicy ground chicken, tantalizing garlic, and the richness of Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Did you know that meatloaf has roots that date back to the Roman Empire? Over the years, it has transformed into a beloved dish in many households—even found its way into popular culture! If you’re a fan of classic comfort food like our cheddar and broccoli stuffed meatballs, then this easy-to-make meatloaf will surely win your heart. So roll up your sleeves, as this delightful recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Now, let’s unravel the quirky name of our star dish—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! Who would have thought that combining ground chicken with two beloved ingredients—garlic and Parmesan—could create such a fun and flavorful concoction? You might wonder if there’s such a thing as too much cheese; but remember the old saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” This meatloaf is your golden ticket to winning hearts at the dining table! Now, are you curious about how to whip up this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the process together!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
There are countless reasons why this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf will be your new family favorite! First, the star of the show is undoubtedly the moist and tender ground chicken, which provides a leaner alternative to traditional beef and blends perfectly with robust garlic & nutty Parmesan flavors. Secondly, making it at home means significant cost savings compared to expensive takeout! Picture this: a hearty meal on the table without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the signature toppings of Parmesan cheese combined with garlic create a beautiful golden crust that adds an irresistible flavor layer. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy night in or a relaxed family dinner. If you love this dish, you might also enjoy exploring other savory meatloaf variations on our blog! So come on, give this meatloaf recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Quick Overview
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare! It comes together in approximately 15 minutes of prep time, followed by baking for about 45 minutes, giving you a scrumptious meal with minimal effort. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to satisfy both your palate and your family’s appetite.
Ingredients Needed
To create this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands (or a spoon) to mix until well combined.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s even throughout for consistent cooking.
- Add Toppings: If you like, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep it juicy!
- Serve: Slice and serve it warm, perhaps garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
What to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf With
To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with some satisfying sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing green salad provide a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. You might even serve it with a glass of chilled white wine or a fizzy beverage for an added touch of enjoyment.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Meatloaf
- Substitutions: If you prefer a different meat, feel free to swap out ground chicken for turkey or even lean beef. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly!
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so just combine until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Keep It Moist: If you find your meatloaf is on the dry side, try adding a splash of milk or chicken broth.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked without being dry.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For quicker results, you can microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of parsley?
Absolutely! Fresh basil or thyme can add a delightful twist.
What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or oats can also be a great substitute for seasoned breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
In summary, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious and simple dish the whole family will love. It combines the goodness of ground chicken with savory garlic and rich Parmesan, coming together in an easy-to-make recipe. With the added benefits of cost-saving and meal versatility, this dish is a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it evenly into a loaf.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired for a cheesy crust.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or lean beef if preferred. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender, juicy meatloaf. Add a splash of milk or broth if the mixture seems dry.
