Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the inviting aroma of sizzling onions and roasted garlic mingled in the air, instantly transporting me to cozy dinners in Italy. This is the magic that happens when you create a Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, a delightful twist on a beloved classic. With every slice, you’re treated to moist chicken nestled around gooey mozzarella, all embraced by a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping and a generous drizzle of marinara. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty meal-prep option. And the best part? This recipe lets you play around with various ground meats, ensuring that it can cater to everyone’s taste! So, are you ready to unravel the secrets to this deliciously satisfying dish? Let’s dive in! Why is this meatloaf a must-try? Juicy, Flavor-Packed Delight: Each slice of this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf delivers a satisfying bite filled with tender chicken and gooey mozzarella, ensuring smiles around the dinner table. Adaptable Ingredients: With the option to swap in ground turkey or lean beef, this recipe caters to various dietary preferences and is a crowd-pleaser for all! Quick Preparation: In just over an hour, this savory feast is ready to tempt your taste buds, making it a perfect solution for your busy weeknights—no more bland fast food! Perfectly Comforting: The comforting blend of Italian flavors transforms mealtime into a cozy experience, reminiscent of family gatherings over hearty dinner spreads. Easy Meal Prep Alternative: Looking for delicious leftover options? This meatloaf holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it a fantastic meal prep choice for the week ahead. Just pair it with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal! Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Ingredients For the Meatloaf Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf mixture; use vegetable oil if needed. Onion (80g, finely diced) – Provides aromatic flavor; substitute with shallots for a sweeter taste. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances flavor depth; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable. Ground Chicken (900g) – Main protein source that keeps the meatloaf moist; ground turkey or lean beef can be substituted for a tasty twist. Seasoned Breadcrumbs (60g) – Acts as a binding agent; use unseasoned breadcrumbs with added Italian spices for a custom flavor. Milk (2 teaspoons) – Adds moisture to the mixture; almond milk or broth can be a dairy-free option. Parmesan Cheese (30g, grated) – Adds salty flavor and richness; substitute with pecorino for a stronger taste. Egg (1) – Binds ingredients together; a flax egg can be used as a vegan substitute. Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Brightens the dish; swap with basil for a different herbaceous note. Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Provides flavor complexity; make your blend with oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste. Mozzarella Cheese Strings (3, cut into 1cm slices) – Creates a cheesy surprise inside the meatloaf; use full-fat mozzarella for the best melting quality. For the Topping Marinara Sauce (120ml) – Topping that adds moisture and taste; use homemade or store-bought marinara. Panko Breadcrumbs (2 tablespoons) – Adds crispiness to the topping; regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko isn’t available. Butter (1 tablespoon, melted) – Helps brown the topping; use olive oil as a healthier alternative. Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Garnishes the dish and adds freshness. Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this enticing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf to life! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This step is crucial as it ensures a perfectly cooked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a beautifully golden crust. While the oven heats, you can prepare the aromatic sauté mixture that will elevate the flavors of your meatloaf. Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and then set the mixture aside to cool completely, ensuring it doesn’t cook the egg when added to the meat mixture. Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion and garlic, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until just combined; this helps to keep your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf tender. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to a denser loaf when cooked. Step 4: Form the Meatloaf On your prepared baking sheet, shape two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle measuring approximately 10×6 inches. Create a small indentation in the center and layer the mozzarella cheese slices inside, ensuring a cheesy surprise awaits in every slice of your meatloaf. Gently place the remaining meat mixture on top and seal the edges to encase the cheese completely. Step 5: Add Marinara Topping Spread 120ml of marinara sauce generously over the top of your assembled meatloaf, allowing it to cover the surface evenly. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist during baking. Now, pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, watching for the meatloaf to brown slightly. Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Topping While your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is baking, combine 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs, additional grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This mixture will form a crispy topping that adds delightful texture once baked. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated, preparing for the final layer. Step 7: Add Cheese and Topping After 45 minutes of baking, carefully remove your meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and then evenly distribute the panko breadcrumb mixture. This will create a crispy, golden-brown crust. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Step 8: Rest Before Slicing Once your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is perfectly cooked and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial step ensures that the juices redistribute, allowing for clean slices and a well-formed loaf. Cut into generous portions and serve with your choice of sides for a heartfelt meal. How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Fridge: Store leftover Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its juicy, flavorful profile. Freezer: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve its texture. Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Enjoy the gooey cheese and tender meatloaf once more! Make-Ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for easy meal prep on busy weeknights! What to Serve with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf As you savor the mouthwatering flavors of Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, let’s explore delightful accompaniments that will elevate this hearty dish into a complete dining experience. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these velvety mashed potatoes complement the savory meatloaf and soak up the marinara sauce beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds a colorful, nutritious crunch, balancing the meatloaf’s richness. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette will refresh your palate and provide a vibrant contrast to the hearty meatloaf. Buttered Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in butter and herbs create a comforting pairing, offering a gentle backdrop for the flavors of the meatloaf. Italian Bread: Warm, crusty Italian bread served with olive oil or a sprinkle of garlic is perfect for mopping up any leftover marinara. Zesty Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw can cut through the meatloaf’s richness, adding a delightful texture and taste variation to your meal. Balsamic Glazed Brussel Sprouts: Slightly charred sprouts with a balsamic glaze bring an earthy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory meatloaf. Red Wine: A glass of oak-aged red wine beautifully enhances the Italian flavors, elevating your dining experience with every sip. Let these sensational sides blend harmoniously with your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf for a truly satisfying meal! Make Ahead Options These Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator, ensuring that all those delicious flavors meld together. To prep, follow the initial mixing instructions, shape the loaf, and apply the marinara topping, but wait to add the crispy panko topping until right before baking to maintain that delightful crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy this savory delight, simply bake from the fridge; it may need a few extra minutes in the oven. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with no fuss, perfect for weeknight dinners! Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this savory meatloaf to suit your taste buds! Turkey Twist: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option that still packs flavor. Beefy Goodness: Use lean ground beef in place of chicken for a heartier meatloaf, perfect for satisfying those meat cravings. Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheeses like creamy cheddar or tangy provolone for a unique flavor profile in the center. Vegetarian Delight: Swap meat for a combination of cooked lentils and finely diced mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version that even meat lovers will enjoy. Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mix for a delightful kick of heat that enhances the overall flavor. Herbal Boost: Switch fresh parsley with vibrant basil or oregano to infuse a refreshing herbal note that perfectly complements the dish. Savory Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro to the meat mixture for added texture and nutrients, taking your meatloaf to the next level. Savorier Sauce: Instead of marinara, try topping your meatloaf with a homemade BBQ sauce or teriyaki glaze, bringing a burst of flavor to every slice. Remember, if you’re looking for side inspirations, consider pairing your meatloaf with a zesty Chicken Bacon Ranch salad or some comforting Sticky Chicken and Rice for a complete meal! Expert Tips for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Cool the Mixture: Allow sautéed onions and garlic to cool completely before mixing. This prevents curdling the egg in the meatloaf. Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the tender Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf you desire. Seal the Cheese: Ensure that mozzarella is completely enclosed within the meat mixture. This will prevent cheesy leaks that could cause a mess in your oven. Check Temperature: Utilize a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature hits 74°C (165°F), ensuring a safe and perfectly cooked meatloaf. Let Rest: Always allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps in achieving clean, well-formed slices while retaining its flavorful filling. Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe FAQs What type of ground meat can I use for this meatloaf? Absolutely! While the primary ingredient is ground chicken, you can switch things up by using ground turkey or lean beef. Each of these alternatives will bring a unique flavor and texture to your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf while still keeping it moist and delicious! How should I store leftovers of my meatloaf? For optimal freshness, store any leftover Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moist texture and flavorful profile, ready for you to enjoy again! Can I freeze my meatloaf? Yes! To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method will help preserve its deliciousness for up to 3 months. Whenever you’re ready to indulge again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry? If your meatloaf ends up dry, don’t fret! You can drizzle a bit of marinara sauce over it just before serving to add moisture. For next time, ensure that you don’t overmix the ingredients and consider adding a bit more milk or a splash of broth during preparation to enhance the moisture content. Is this dish suitable for family members with dietary restrictions? Very! You can easily adapt this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf to cater to various dietary needs. Use a flax egg as a vegan substitute, and almond milk for those avoiding dairy. Additionally, the ground meat can be swapped out for plant-based alternatives to create a vegetarian version, keeping everyone at the table happy. How can I tell when my meatloaf is fully cooked? The best way to ensure your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). This guarantees it’s safe to eat while also helping to prevent dryness—everyone loves a juicy slice! Juicy Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Cheesy Surprise This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic, featuring moist chicken and gooey mozzarella for a comforting meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 slicesCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatloaf1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds moisture and flavor; use vegetable oil if needed.80 g Onion Finely diced.2 cloves Garlic Minced.900 g Ground Chicken Main protein source; can substitute with ground turkey or lean beef.60 g Seasoned Breadcrumbs Acts as a binding agent; unseasoned breadcrumbs can be used.2 teaspoons Milk Adds moisture; almond milk or broth can be a dairy-free option.30 g Parmesan Cheese Grated; substitute with pecorino for a stronger taste.1 piece Egg Binds ingredients together; a flax egg can be used as a vegan substitute.2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Provides flavor complexity.½ teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.3 pieces Mozzarella Cheese Strings Cut into 1cm slices.For the Topping120 ml Marinara Sauce Adds moisture and taste.2 tablespoons Panko Breadcrumbs Adds crispiness; regular breadcrumbs can be used.1 tablespoon Butter Melted; use olive oil for a healthier alternative.1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Chopped. Equipment Skilletmixing bowlbaking sheetaluminum foilMeat Thermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken MeatloafPreheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Set aside to cool.In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion and garlic, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until just combined.On your prepared baking sheet, shape two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle measuring about 10x6 inches. Create a small indentation in the center and layer the mozzarella cheese slices inside. Layer the remaining meat mixture on top and seal the edges to enclose the cheese.Spread marinara sauce over the top of the assembled meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes.Combine panko breadcrumbs, additional grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Stir until evenly coated.After 45 minutes, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and distribute the breadcrumb mixture on top. Return to the oven for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesCool the mixture before combining with egg, avoid overmixing, seal cheese properly and check the internal temperature for doneness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
