Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are an amazing alternative to traditional meatloaf. Made with ground chicken instead of beef, they offer a leaner, healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The garlic and Parmesan cheese infuse each meatloaf with a savory richness, while the breadcrumbs keep the texture light and tender. Plus, the individual portions make for easier serving, and you can customize the recipe with different herbs or add-ins. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating, with an Italian-inspired twist that makes it feel special.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground chicken
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 egg, beaten
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/4 cup milk
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Stir in the milk to moisten the mixture.
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Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf.
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Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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(Optional) Sprinkle mozzarella on top in the last five minutes of baking.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
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Dairy-Free: Replace the Parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast.
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Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
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Herb Variation: Feel free to swap oregano for basil, thyme, or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the meatloaves in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
1. How do I make sure the chicken meatloaf stays moist?
Adding milk and breadcrumbs to the mixture helps retain moisture. Additionally, drizzling olive oil before baking ensures a crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It will work similarly in terms of flavor and texture.
3. Can I freeze these meatloaves?
Yes, you can freeze these meatloaves. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
4. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for the meatloaves to be safely cooked.
5. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. How can I make these meatloaves spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeños to the mixture to give the meatloaves a spicy kick.
7. Can I make the meatloaf without egg?
If you’re avoiding eggs, you can substitute with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or a store-bought egg replacement.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftover meatloaves in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
9. How do I reheat frozen meatloaves?
To reheat frozen meatloaves, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
10. Can I make these meatloaves without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even oats as an alternative to breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a quick and easy meal that’s both flavorful and healthy. With a crispy, cheesy exterior and a tender, savory interior, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. The lean ground chicken, combined with the delicious garlic and Parmesan, makes this dish satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, the individual servings make it simple to customize, store, and serve. Whether you’re cooking for one or making dinner for the whole family, these meatloaves are sure to become a go-to favorite.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a lighter twist on the classic meatloaf, made with ground chicken, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Perfectly portioned mini loaves with a crispy exterior and tender cheesy center, ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup milk
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Stir in the milk to moisten the mixture.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf.
- Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- (Optional) Sprinkle mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Notes
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for extra spice.
- Swap oregano with basil, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini loaf
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg