Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Savory, Moist, and Packed with Flavor

Introduction:

Looking for a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the answer!
Made with juicy ground chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese, this meatloaf is lighter than beef versions but just as satisfying.
Perfect for a hearty family dinner, meal prepping, or even sandwiches the next day, this recipe delivers a flavorful, moist meatloaf with a beautifully crispy crust.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make the perfect chicken meatloaf every time, plus share expert tips for the ultimate texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds ground chicken
(Lean but not too lean — around 93% lean is ideal for a juicy result.)
¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
(Adds structure and absorbs juices to keep the loaf tender.)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
(Freshly grated gives a richer, more authentic flavor.)
2 large eggs
(Acts as a binder to hold everything together.)
3 cloves garlic, minced
(Fresh garlic for a bold flavor — you can adjust according to your taste.)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup milk
(Adds moisture and prevents the loaf from becoming dry.)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
(Adds freshness and color.)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Extra Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Ground chicken
Seasoned breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Minced garlic
Eggs
Milk
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
(Optional) Chopped fresh parsley

Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix until all the ingredients are just combined.
Tip: Do not overmix — it can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
Gently press it down to form an even loaf shape.
Alternatively, you can form a free-form loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet for more crispy edges.

4. Brush and Top:

Brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil to help it develop a golden, crispy crust.
Sprinkle a generous handful of extra Parmesan cheese over the top for an irresistible cheesy finish.

5. Bake:

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

Tip:
For extra crispiness, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes — just keep a close eye on it!

6. Rest and Serve:

Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and tender.

Recipe Summary:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8 slices
Calories: Approx. 280 kcal per slice

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Delicious next day as a meatloaf sandwich with a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese!

Tips for Success:

Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined for a tender meatloaf.
Use a thermometer: Chicken must reach 165°F internally for safety.
Customize it: Add shredded mozzarella inside the loaf for a melty surprise!
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:

Healthier twist on a classic dish
Packed with flavor from garlic and Parmesan
Moist and juicy every time
Easy and customizable to your family’s tastes