Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lighter Option: Utilizing ground chicken provides a leaner protein choice without compromising on juiciness or taste.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses infuses the meatloaf with a savory depth that’s both comforting and indulgent.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into ½-inch slices
Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
- 1½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened. Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, seasoned bread crumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and the cooled onion and garlic mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer two-thirds of the chicken mixture to the prepared baking pan, shaping it into an 8×4-inch rectangle. Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices on top, then cover with the remaining chicken mixture, sealing the edges to encase the cheese.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Prepare Topping: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
- Add Topping and Cheese: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Final Bake: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Variations
- Ground Turkey Substitute: For a different flavor profile, substitute ground turkey for ground chicken.
- Herb Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the meat mixture for added freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For refrigerated leftovers, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground chicken?
Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used as substitutes, offering different flavor profiles while maintaining the meatloaf’s integrity.
Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful, cheesy twist on a classic comfort food! Made with lean ground chicken, Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this dish is juicy, rich, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into ½-inch slices
For the Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
- 1½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened (about 3 minutes), then allow to cool.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, bread crumbs, milk, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and the cooled onion mixture.
- Mix gently until just combined.
Form the Meatloaf:
- Shape two-thirds of the chicken mixture into an 8×4-inch rectangle on the prepared pan.
- Place mozzarella slices on top, then cover with the remaining chicken mixture, sealing the edges.
Bake the Meatloaf:
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley.
Final Bake:
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the topping is golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Ground Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for a slightly different flavor.
- Extra Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano for more Italian-inspired flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a GF version.
