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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Easy Dinner Recipe

by on August 31, 2025

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Looking for a simple dinner recipe that impresses? Try my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! This dish combines juicy ground chicken, savory Parmesan cheese, and aromatic garlic for a family-friendly meal. I’ll guide you step-by-step, so you can whip this up with ease. Perfect for busy nights, this meatloaf is both tasty and satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

- 1 pound ground chicken - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese You need ground chicken for a lean meatloaf. It keeps the dish light and tasty. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together. They also add texture. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, cheesy flavor to every bite. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Minced garlic adds a strong, savory taste. It gives the meatloaf its name! Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and moisture. Fresh parsley brings a bright color and fresh flavor. - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano Milk keeps the meatloaf moist. The large egg binds all the ingredients together. Dried oregano adds a warm, earthy taste. Each of these ingredients works together to create a perfect meatloaf. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for the best bake. While the oven warms up, grease your loaf pan with oil or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This helps the meatloaf come out easily after baking. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 small finely chopped onion. Then, mix in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup of milk. Don’t forget to add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the meatloaf tender and moist. Now, transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to shape it well. Next, spread 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top for extra flavor. If you want, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust. Bake your meatloaf in the oven for about 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve. To keep your meatloaf tender, avoid overmixing. When you mix the ingredients, do it gently. Overmixing makes the meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a spatula to combine everything until it is just mixed. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for ten minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you slice it right away, juices run out. Resting makes each slice moist and flavorful. Adding herbs and spices can boost flavor. Try fresh thyme or basil for a twist. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. Customize the topping too. Instead of ketchup, try BBQ sauce or a mix of mustard and honey. This will change the taste and make it exciting. Serve your meatloaf with sides that match well. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add color. For a beautiful presentation, slice the meatloaf evenly. Arrange the slices on a platter and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This makes your meal look appealing and inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, making it more aromatic and vibrant. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal texture. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier. {{image_2}} You can swap ground chicken for ground turkey. Turkey has a similar taste and texture. It is leaner and still gives great flavor. This option works well if you want a lighter meal. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat. Mash cooked lentils or chickpeas and add your usual ingredients. This gives a hearty texture and keeps it tasty. Adding veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. They add color and moisture to the meatloaf. You can also use different cheeses. Instead of Parmesan, try mozzarella or cheddar. Each cheese gives a unique taste. Mixing cheeses can add a nice twist too! For a Mediterranean style, add feta cheese and olives. You can also mix in dried herbs like basil or thyme. This gives a fresh, savory flavor. If you want Asian-inspired flavors, add soy sauce and ginger. You can also include water chestnuts for crunch. These changes create a fun, new taste that surprises the palate. To store leftovers, first let the meatloaf cool. Place it in an airtight container. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it fresh. Leftovers will last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to eat them before that time is up for the best taste. For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled meatloaf in plastic wrap, then in foil. This double layer helps protect against freezer burn. You can freeze it up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a faster method, use the microwave's defrost setting. When it comes to reheating, the oven gives the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot. The microwave is faster but can make the meatloaf a bit rubbery. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. Yes, you can use other meats! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken. It has a similar texture and flavor. You can also try ground beef or pork if you want a richer taste. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat you choose. Always check the internal temperature for safety. To make the meatloaf gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Both options provide a great texture without the gluten. Another choice is to use ground almond flour or coconut flour. These options can help bind the meatloaf while keeping it gluten-free. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the meatloaf to see if the juices run clear. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy. In this article, we explored the key ingredients for a tasty meatloaf, from ground chicken to seasonings. I guided you through step-by-step instructions for mixing, forming, and baking. You learned useful tips to keep your meatloaf tender and flavorful. We also discussed creative variations, storage tips, and answered common questions. Now, you can create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy making it your own!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic and Parmesan brings a delightful taste that elevates the simple meatloaf to a gourmet level.
  2. Healthy Alternative: Using ground chicken makes this meatloaf a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
  3. Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
  4. Customizable: You can easily add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own, or even swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound ground chicken

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

You need ground chicken for a lean meatloaf. It keeps the dish light and tasty. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together. They also add texture. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, cheesy flavor to every bite.

Aromatics and Seasonings

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Minced garlic adds a strong, savory taste. It gives the meatloaf its name! Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and moisture. Fresh parsley brings a bright color and fresh flavor.

Binding and Moisture Ingredients

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Milk keeps the meatloaf moist. The large egg binds all the ingredients together. Dried oregano adds a warm, earthy taste. Each of these ingredients works together to create a perfect meatloaf.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Loaf Pan

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for the best bake. While the oven warms up, grease your loaf pan with oil or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This helps the meatloaf come out easily after baking.

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 small finely chopped onion. Then, mix in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup of milk. Don’t forget to add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the meatloaf tender and moist.

Forming and Baking the Meatloaf

Now, transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to shape it well. Next, spread 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top for extra flavor. If you want, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust. Bake your meatloaf in the oven for about 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Tender Meatloaf

To keep your meatloaf tender, avoid overmixing. When you mix the ingredients, do it gently. Overmixing makes the meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a spatula to combine everything until it is just mixed.

After baking, let the meatloaf rest for ten minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you slice it right away, juices run out. Resting makes each slice moist and flavorful.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding herbs and spices can boost flavor. Try fresh thyme or basil for a twist. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. Customize the topping too. Instead of ketchup, try BBQ sauce or a mix of mustard and honey. This will change the taste and make it exciting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your meatloaf with sides that match well. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add color. For a beautiful presentation, slice the meatloaf evenly. Arrange the slices on a platter and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This makes your meal look appealing and inviting.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, making it more aromatic and vibrant.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
  3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal texture.
  4. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.

Variations

Protein Substitutes

You can swap ground chicken for ground turkey. Turkey has a similar taste and texture. It is leaner and still gives great flavor. This option works well if you want a lighter meal.

For a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat. Mash cooked lentils or chickpeas and add your usual ingredients. This gives a hearty texture and keeps it tasty.

Flavor Additions

Adding veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. They add color and moisture to the meatloaf.

You can also use different cheeses. Instead of Parmesan, try mozzarella or cheddar. Each cheese gives a unique taste. Mixing cheeses can add a nice twist too!

International Twists

For a Mediterranean style, add feta cheese and olives. You can also mix in dried herbs like basil or thyme. This gives a fresh, savory flavor.

If you want Asian-inspired flavors, add soy sauce and ginger. You can also include water chestnuts for crunch. These changes create a fun, new taste that surprises the palate.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, first let the meatloaf cool. Place it in an airtight container. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it fresh. Leftovers will last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to eat them before that time is up for the best taste.

Freezing Instructions

For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled meatloaf in plastic wrap, then in foil. This double layer helps protect against freezer burn. You can freeze it up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a faster method, use the microwave’s defrost setting.

Reheating Methods

When it comes to reheating, the oven gives the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s hot. The microwave is faster but can make the meatloaf a bit rubbery. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, you can use other meats! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken. It has a similar texture and flavor. You can also try ground beef or pork if you want a richer taste. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat you choose. Always check the internal temperature for safety.

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make the meatloaf gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Both options provide a great texture without the gluten. Another choice is to use ground almond flour or coconut flour. These options can help bind the meatloaf while keeping it gluten-free.

What internal temperature should the meatloaf reach?

The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the meatloaf to see if the juices run clear. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy.

In this article, we explored the key ingredients for a tasty meatloaf, from ground chicken to seasonings. I guided you through step-by-step instructions for mixing, forming, and baking. You learned useful tips to keep your meatloaf tender and flavorful. We also discussed creative variations, storage tips, and answered common questions.

Now, you can create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy making it your ow

- 1 pound ground chicken - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese You need ground chicken for a lean meatloaf. It keeps the dish light and tasty. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together. They also add texture. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, cheesy flavor to every bite. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Minced garlic adds a strong, savory taste. It gives the meatloaf its name! Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and moisture. Fresh parsley brings a bright color and fresh flavor. - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano Milk keeps the meatloaf moist. The large egg binds all the ingredients together. Dried oregano adds a warm, earthy taste. Each of these ingredients works together to create a perfect meatloaf. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for the best bake. While the oven warms up, grease your loaf pan with oil or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This helps the meatloaf come out easily after baking. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 small finely chopped onion. Then, mix in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup of milk. Don’t forget to add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the meatloaf tender and moist. Now, transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to shape it well. Next, spread 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top for extra flavor. If you want, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust. Bake your meatloaf in the oven for about 45-55 minutes. It’s done when the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve. To keep your meatloaf tender, avoid overmixing. When you mix the ingredients, do it gently. Overmixing makes the meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a spatula to combine everything until it is just mixed. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for ten minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you slice it right away, juices run out. Resting makes each slice moist and flavorful. Adding herbs and spices can boost flavor. Try fresh thyme or basil for a twist. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. Customize the topping too. Instead of ketchup, try BBQ sauce or a mix of mustard and honey. This will change the taste and make it exciting. Serve your meatloaf with sides that match well. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add color. For a beautiful presentation, slice the meatloaf evenly. Arrange the slices on a platter and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This makes your meal look appealing and inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, making it more aromatic and vibrant. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal texture. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices and makes slicing easier. {{image_2}} You can swap ground chicken for ground turkey. Turkey has a similar taste and texture. It is leaner and still gives great flavor. This option works well if you want a lighter meal. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat. Mash cooked lentils or chickpeas and add your usual ingredients. This gives a hearty texture and keeps it tasty. Adding veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots. They add color and moisture to the meatloaf. You can also use different cheeses. Instead of Parmesan, try mozzarella or cheddar. Each cheese gives a unique taste. Mixing cheeses can add a nice twist too! For a Mediterranean style, add feta cheese and olives. You can also mix in dried herbs like basil or thyme. This gives a fresh, savory flavor. If you want Asian-inspired flavors, add soy sauce and ginger. You can also include water chestnuts for crunch. These changes create a fun, new taste that surprises the palate. To store leftovers, first let the meatloaf cool. Place it in an airtight container. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it fresh. Leftovers will last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to eat them before that time is up for the best taste. For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled meatloaf in plastic wrap, then in foil. This double layer helps protect against freezer burn. You can freeze it up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a faster method, use the microwave's defrost setting. When it comes to reheating, the oven gives the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot. The microwave is faster but can make the meatloaf a bit rubbery. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. Yes, you can use other meats! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken. It has a similar texture and flavor. You can also try ground beef or pork if you want a richer taste. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat you choose. Always check the internal temperature for safety. To make the meatloaf gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Both options provide a great texture without the gluten. Another choice is to use ground almond flour or coconut flour. These options can help bind the meatloaf while keeping it gluten-free. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the meatloaf to see if the juices run clear. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meatloaf juicy. In this article, we explored the key ingredients for a tasty meatloaf, from ground chicken to seasonings. I guided you through step-by-step instructions for mixing, forming, and baking. You learned useful tips to keep your meatloaf tender and flavorful. We also discussed creative variations, storage tips, and answered common questions. Now, you can create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy making it your own!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

A flavorful meatloaf made with ground chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, topped with ketchup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 cup ketchup (for topping)
  • optional extra Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped onion.
  • Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Mix all the ingredients together gently using your hands or a spatula until well combined, but don’t overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.
  • Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture. If desired, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.

Notes

Slice the meatloaf into equal portions and serve on a platter garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, garlic, meatloaf, parmesan

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