Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground chicken; 0.75 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or plain); 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.333 cup minced yellow onion; 4 cloves minced garlic; 1 large egg; 0.25 cup whole milk; 3 tablespoons chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Why choose meatloaf?

Meatloaf often gets a bad rap, but it deserves a second chance! Why? It's not only budget-friendly but also versatile and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're cooking for one or a crowd, you can never go wrong with a hearty slice of meatloaf. Plus, it's an ideal opportunity to incorporate various ingredients, making it easy to include veggies or your favorite seasonings. For a busy young professional, this dish is a winner—simple to prep, it makes for delicious leftovers and pairs well with many sides, such as a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables.

The garlic and parmesan twist

Now, let’s talk about the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! Imagine taking the classic flavors of garlic and parmesan and fusing them into a comforting meatloaf. The fragrant garlic adds a warm, savory touch, while the parmesan offers a sharp and nutty flavor that elevates the dish. The crispy parmesan crust not only adds texture but takes this traditional recipe to a whole new level. Want to impress your guests or family? This meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and can even be the star of your next dinner party. Trust me, once you try this twist, you'll wonder why you didn’t switch it up sooner!

For more helpful cooking tips and culinary inspirations, check out resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats for additional ideas!

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

When it comes to creating a mouth-watering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, gathering the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Here’s what you need for this delicious dinner option:

1 ½ pounds ground chicken: This lean protein is the star of the dish, ensuring a juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs or plain: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf while adding a nice texture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that unmistakable garlic parmesan flavor and creaminess.
⅓ cup minced yellow onion: Adds essential moisture and sweetness to the meatloaf.
4 cloves minced garlic: The garlic is definitely the hero here, giving your meatloaf a zesty kick.
1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent to keep all those tasty ingredients together.
¼ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness.
3 tablespoons chopped parsley: For a fresh touch of color and flavor.
1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese: It creates that delicious crispy crust when baked.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can really elevate your dish! Want a perfect pairing? Consider serving it with some garlic parmesan potatoes, which complement this meatloaf beautifully. For more cooking tips, check out Food Network's Cooking Basics to improve your kitchen skills!

Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Creating a delicious and satisfying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf at home is easier than you might think. This dish is not only packed with flavor but is also a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Let's break down the preparation into easy-to-follow steps.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the mixing bowl, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ pounds of ground chicken
¾ cup of Italian (or plain) breadcrumbs
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup of minced yellow onion
4 cloves of minced garlic
1 large egg
¼ cup of whole milk
3 tablespoons of chopped parsley
1 teaspoon of salt
½ teaspoon of black pepper
½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch

Having everything ready will streamline the process, making your cooking experience enjoyable.

Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the key ingredients: ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, minced onion, minced garlic, egg, whole milk, parsley, salt, and black pepper. The combination of savory garlic and rich parmesan creates a flavor profile that elevates the humble meatloaf to gourmet status.

Using clean hands or a large spoon, mix everything together until it's well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatloaf dense rather than tender.

Shape and Prepare the Loaf

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it. Lightly spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal later. Now, form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it into the prepared pan.

For an added touch, sprinkle the top with ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese and sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley across the top for a pop of color. This not only enhances presentation but amplifies that delicious cheesy crust we all love.

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your meatloaf for about 1 hour. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it cooks evenly. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Broil for That Golden Crust

To achieve that irresistible golden crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking. This step is crucial—just remember to keep a close watch! It’ll give your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf that beautiful brown finish that makes it so inviting.

And there you have it! Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serving this dish with garlic parmesan potatoes or a fresh salad makes for a delightful meal. Enjoy your delicious creation—you’ve earned it!

For more cooking tips and recipes, check out The Kitchn or Serious Eats for inspiration. Happy cooking!

Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Looking to mix things up with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf? Here are two delightful variations to tantalize your taste buds!

Sun-dried Tomato and Parmesan Meatloaf

Infuse your meatloaf with a burst of flavor by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes. Simply chop ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes and mix them into the meat mixture before baking. Their sweet, tangy taste complements the garlic and Parmesan, creating a deliciously unique dish. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

Spinach and Feta Chicken Meatloaf

Craving a Mediterranean twist? Try adding spinach and feta cheese! Fold in 1 cup of fresh, chopped spinach and ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese into your meatloaf mixture. This variation not only boosts the nutritional value but adds a soft, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic. Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors!

For more ways to customize this dish, check out this helpful resource for inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is straightforward, but a few tips can take yours to the next level!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a significant difference in flavor. If you can, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese – it melts beautifully!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf. If you want to lighten the mixture, consider incorporating finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. This helps ensure your chicken meatloaf remains juicy and tender.
Rest Before Slicing: Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and serving to avoid a dry texture.

For more insights, check out this resource on meatloaf techniques. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

When it comes to enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, the side dishes can really complement its flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Pair with Savory Sides

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic are a perfect match.
Steamed Vegetables: A colorful medley of broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers adds nutrition and brightness to your plate.

Upgrade the Experience

Fresh Salad: Toss together a crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crunchy French bread, which are perfect for scooping up any leftover flavors on your plate.

These simple yet tasty sides will enhance your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf while keeping your meal light and enjoyable. For more ideas, check out this article on meal pairings. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Preparation Time

Getting ready to create this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes just 10 minutes. Gather all your ingredients, chop your garlic and parsley, and mix everything together—it's straightforward and fuss-free!

Cooking Time

Once you've shaped your meatloaf, it needs to bake for 1 hour at 350°F. For that extra crispy touch, broil for the last couple of minutes to achieve that perfect golden brown top.

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. A short wait for a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress at dinner time!

For more tips on cooking with chicken, you can check out Chicken Basics for advice on handling poultry properly.

Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

When it comes to enjoying a hearty dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, it's great to know what you're putting on your plate. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional values:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 322 calories, making it a balanced meal for dinner without overindulging.

Protein

Packed with 33 grams of protein per serving, this meatloaf is an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake, ideal for active lifestyles.

Sodium

With about 540 mg of sodium per serving, it’s important to consider if you're monitoring your sodium intake. You can adjust this by using low-sodium breadcrumbs or cheese.

Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf brings just the right amount of zest while keeping your nutritional goals in check. Have you tried pairing it with garlic parmesan potatoes for a complete meal? Check out some tips here.

FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Turkey provides a similar taste and texture, plus it's a leaner option if you're looking to cut down on fat. Just ensure it's well-seasoned, as turkey can sometimes be a bit milder in flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What sides pair well with meatloaf?

Pair your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad work beautifully. You might also enjoy serving it with garlic bread or even seasoned quinoa for a unique twist. For more side ideas, check out this guide from Food Network.

Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not just a delicious twist on a classic, but also a wholesome option for your dinner table. Its combination of juicy chicken and savory garlic makes it a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the compliments! For more tasty recipes, check out The Kitchn and Serious Eats!