Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. Combining the flavors of garlic and Parmesan with tender ground chicken, these individual mini meatloaves are packed with Italian-inspired flavors and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfectly portioned, they’re easy to prepare, and each mini meatloaf bakes up moist and full of flavor. This recipe makes an ideal weeknight meal but is also impressive enough to serve for special occasions. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy this cozy, hearty dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Individual Portions: Mini meatloaves cook faster and are perfectly portioned for easy serving.
• Flavor-Packed: Garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings bring an explosion of savory flavor to every bite.
• Healthier Option: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatloaves are lighter than traditional beef meatloaf.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful profile appeals to even the pickiest eaters.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: Mince the garlic, dice the onion finely, and chop the fresh parsley. Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, eggs, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix Well: Use clean hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatloaves dense.
3. Shape into Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a mini meatloaf, about 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the meatloaves on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each.

Step 3: Add the Topping

1. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the top of each meatloaf with olive oil to help with browning.
2. Sprinkle with Cheese: Top each meatloaf with a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaves

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatloaves are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Broil for Extra Color: For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the Oven: Let the meatloaves rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle with additional chopped parsley.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and freshly minced garlic elevate the flavor.
2. Don’t Over-Mix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatloaves tender.
3. Broil Carefully: When broiling, stay close to avoid burning the cheese topping.
4. Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Spinach: For added nutrition, mix in a handful of chopped fresh spinach.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Swap the Cheese: Try Asiago or Romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
4. Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Steamed Veggies: Balance the richness with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
• Salad: Pair with a light Caesar or garden salad.

Storing and Reheating

1. Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Wrap each meatloaf individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. For faster reheating, use the microwave, covered with a microwave-safe lid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe.

2. What’s the best way to shape the mini meatloaves?
Use slightly damp hands to prevent the mixture from sticking, and shape each portion into a small loaf.

3. How can I make these meatloaves dairy-free?
Replace the Parmesan and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

4. Do I need to cover the meatloaves while baking?
No, it’s best to bake them uncovered to achieve a browned, cheesy top.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe is a delightful way to bring classic Italian flavors into a weeknight meal. The juicy ground chicken mixed with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings creates a comforting dish that’s just as delicious as it is easy to make. Perfect for serving to family or friends, these mini meatloaves are sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every savory, cheesy bite.

Yield: 4

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

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This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. Combining the flavors of garlic and Parmesan with tender ground chicken, these individual mini meatloaves are packed with Italian-inspired flavors and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfectly portioned, they’re easy to prepare, and each mini meatloaf bakes up moist and full of flavor. This recipe makes an ideal weeknight meal but is also impressive enough to serve for special occasions. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy this cozy, hearty dish!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned works well)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
• Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   
2. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
   
3. Shape Meatloaves:
   Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a mini meatloaf. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
   
4. Prepare Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
   In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
   
5. Bake the Meatloaves:
   Brush each meatloaf generously with the garlic Parmesan glaze. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatloaves reaches 165°F (74°C). For a golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
   
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
   If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each meatloaf in the last 5 minutes of baking.
   
7. Serve:
   Let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Ground Turkey: This recipe works well with ground turkey too.
• Make Ahead: Form the meatloaves in advance and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
• Serve With: These mini meatloaves pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a green vegetable, or a simple salad.