Save to Pinterest A tender, flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, packed with garlic and Parmesan for a cozy, comforting dinner everyone will love.
I have made this meatloaf several times and it always receives rave reviews from family and friends.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: 2 pounds (900 g) ground chicken (substitute with ground turkey or lean pork if desired)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (90 g), shredded (or Romano cheese)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (60 g) (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml) (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (for glaze)
- Additional Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25 g), for sprinkling
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined do not overmix.
- Step 3:
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the greased loaf pan.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the loaf is set.
- Step 5:
- While the meatloaf bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add an extra clove of minced garlic if desired and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the additional Parmesan and half of the chopped parsley cook until slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Brush the top with the garlic-Parmesan glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Step 7:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes. Slice garnish with the remaining fresh parsley and serve warm.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a favorite at family dinners especially during chilly evenings when comfort food is welcomed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Wine Pairing
Pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir enhancing the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Parmesan butter) Eggs Wheat (breadcrumbs). Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this juicy and flavorful chicken meatloaf as a comforting dinner option that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground chicken with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or lean pork can be used as alternatives without compromising flavor or texture.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to suit gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What is the best way to ensure the loaf stays moist?
Mix ingredients gently to avoid overworking and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for juiciness.
- → Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the garlic-Parmesan glaze can be made in advance and brushed on before the final bake for convenience.
- → What side dishes pair well with this chicken loaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad complement this dish beautifully.
- → Is there a dairy-free option available?
Use plant-based milk and vegan hard cheese alternatives, and omit butter for a dairy-free version.