There’s something magical about the aroma of parmesan chicken meatloaf baking in the oven. It’s like a warm hug for your kitchen! This dish has been trending all over TikTok and Pinterestproof that cozy comfort food never goes out of style and brings smiles to family dinner.
This recipe is pure comfort on a plate. Picture tender ground chicken mixed with cheese and herbs, all baked to perfection. It’s like your grandma’s version, but quicker and made with pantry staples. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! Full details in the blog!
Cooking this dish reminds me of my mom, who always found ways to make something delicious out of nothing. I’ve tested every flavor combo, and I promise you’ll love the hidden surprise I kept in this one! Just wait until you taste that cheesy goodness.
Enjoy a tender parmesan chicken meatloaf packed with flavor. This parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe offers a cheesy chicken loaf bake perfect for a comforting family meal. Ideal for those craving a crispy topped chicken loaf.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, gently mix ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and milk until just combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan.
Bake it for 40 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Meanwhile, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook until aromatic, then stir in extra Parmesan and parsley, cooking until the glaze thickens slightly.
Brush this glaze over the meatloaf and put it back in the oven for 5 to 7 more minutes.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes, slice it, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flavor
This recipe is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Category:Dinner
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 slice
Calories:350 kcal
Sugar:2 g
Sodium:600 mg
Fat:17 g
Saturated Fat:7 g
Unsaturated Fat:2 g + 8 g
Carbohydrates:20 g
Fiber:1 g
Protein:30 g
Cholesterol:120 mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
If there’s one meal that can bring everyone together at the dinner table, it’s this parmesan chicken meatloaf. Not only is it cozy comfort food, but it also bursts with flavor that even the pickiest eaters will love. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
This dish is nostalgic in all the right ways. It reminds us of the classic meatloaf mom used to make but feels lighter with ground chicken and oozes cheesy goodness thanks to the plentiful Parmesan. Your family will savor every tender, juicy bitethey might even compete for the last slice!
Perfectly paired with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, it’s a reliable choice for anything from a casual weeknight dinner to a heartwarming Sunday feast. Trust me; it’s all about those comforting vibes!
Ingredient Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish sing. The ingredients are simple yet impactful. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Chicken: You can substitute turkey or lean pork, but chicken keeps this dish light and juicy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and depth of flavor. Romano cheese can also be used if that’s what you have on hand!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Help achieve a nice texture. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but they might not be quite as crispy.
Fresh Garlic: Nothing beats fresh garlic! Pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.
Herbs and Spices: Dried basil, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper round out the flavor. These pantry staples mean you likely have most already!
Eggs and Milk: Essential for binding everything together. Plant milk works as a dairy-free alternative.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to get your hands a little messy? Let’s walk through the steps to create this comforting dish.
Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare your baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or a little grease.
Mixing It All Together: In a large bowl, gently combine all the meatloaf ingredients: ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combineddon’t overdo it!
Shape and Bake: Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan, shaping it into a loaf. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Add the Glaze: While baking, melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté some minced garlic. Stir in additional Parmesan and parsley, then drizzle this creamy glaze over your meatloaf. Bake for another 5-7 minutes.
Rest and Serve: Once done, let your masterpiece rest for about 5 minutes. Slice it, garnish with extra parsley, and enjoy!
Easy Customizations
This cheesy chicken loaf bake is flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your taste! Here are a few ideas:
Herbs: Swap the herbsoregano or thyme make lovely alternatives!
Cheese: For extra cheesiness, mix some mozzarella into the meatloaf for a melty surprise!
Savory Add-Ins: Add chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a delightful crunch and nutrition boost.
How to Serve & Store
Serving this dish brings all the cozy vibes. Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a light salad. Drizzle leftover garlic-Parmesan glaze on top for an extra flavor kick! It’s also perfect for meal prep.
Storage Method
Storage Time
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Microwave or warm up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Freezer
Up to 3 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.
Whether enjoying it fresh or savoring leftovers, this parmesan chicken meatloaf will become a staple in your home. Happy cooking, friends!
Expert Says
When making Parmesan chicken meatloaf, adding grated Parmesan not only enhances flavor but also provides a boost of protein and calcium. The cheese’s umami notes balance the dish, while its fat helps keep the meatloaf moist during baking, ensuring a tender and delicious result.
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The Adventure of My Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
After several dry and dense meatloaf attempts, I finally cracked the code on this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. It took lots of experimenting with spices and texturesmy kids certainly endured some “interesting” dinners along the waybut now it’s a family favorite that’s juicy, cozy, and utterly delicious.
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
And there you have it: a delicious parmesan chicken meatloaf that’s easy to whip up and fills your home with that warm, cozy aroma. In just 45 minutes in the oven, you’ll bring a tender, juicy dish to the table that your family will fondly remember for years. Trust me, seconds will be a must!
Looking for a twist? Try adding spinach or zucchini for a nutrition boost, or swap the Parmesan for mozzarella for extra gooeyness. Feeling adventurous? A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top adds a sweet kick! And remember, this beauty stores welljust pop it in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for an easy leftover lunch!
I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you grow up with a special meatloaf recipe? Snap a pic and share your memories in the comments! Remember, this cheesy chicken loaf bake is perfect for sharing with loved ones, so don’t forget to save or pin it for your next cozy dinner. Happy cooking, friends!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
