Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf that brings together the savory flavors of ground chicken, fragrant herbs, and melty cheese. This dish not only offers a comforting meal for your family but is also a fantastic option for those weekdays when you crave something hearty yet healthy. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf promises to be a surefire hit!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 280
- Protein: 27 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a nutritious alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. The ground chicken keeps the dish light, while the Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the taste. It’s packed with protein, making it filling without weighing you down. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides, from mashed potatoes to a fresh salad. What’s more, leftovers are just as tasty the next day, ensuring you get the most out of this comforting dish.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Creating this delicious meatloaf is straightforward, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. Let’s cover the steps to take you from mixing ingredients to enjoying this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly and gets that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold its shape.
Step 3: Shaping
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. You can also free-form it on a lined baking sheet if you prefer a crustier exterior.
Step 4: Cooking
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice.
How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad complement this dish beautifully. For a touch of elegance, drizzle a light tomato sauce or a balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
How to Store Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Store leftover Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and sealing them in a freezer bag; it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a better texture. If you’re using store-bought breadcrumbs, try adding a bit of seasoning for extra flavor.
- Make sure to mix gently. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
- If you want to add extra flavor, mix in a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce into the mixture.
- For a cheesy twist, add extra Parmesan cheese on top of the loaf 10 minutes before it’s finished baking.
Delicious Variations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Grated zucchini or shredded carrots can add moisture and extra nutrients.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap out a portion of the Parmesan cheese for mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy center.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well and will yield similar results in terms of flavor and texture. -
What should I serve with meatloaf?
Great side options include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for balance. -
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here. -
Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the loaf, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only a comforting and delicious meal but also a healthier option that pleases both family and friends. With its savory flavors and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. We encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Total Time: 75
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Healthy
Description
A healthier twist on classic meatloaf featuring ground chicken, herbs, and melty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
