Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a Crispy Crust

Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a Crispy Crust 🍗🧄🧀

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food dish. Made with ground chicken, savory breadcrumbs, and a generous helping of garlic and Parmesan, this meatloaf is moist, aromatic, and topped with an optional gooey layer of melted mozzarella cheese. With its crispy crust and tender interior, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying chicken meatloaf step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lighter Alternative : Ground chicken makes this meatloaf lighter than traditional beef versions while still being packed with flavor.
2. Crispy & Cheesy : The olive oil brush creates a golden crust, and the optional mozzarella topping adds a cheesy finish.
3. Meal Prep Friendly : Perfect for slicing and storing for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
4. Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or mix-ins like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair.
5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love the mild, savory flavors of this dish.

Ingredients

(Serves 6)

• 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
• ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• ½ yellow onion , finely chopped
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping )
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf shape if using a baking sheet, or press it evenly into the loaf pan.
2. If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and gently press it into the surface for a cheesy topping.
3. Brush the top of the meatloaf with olive oil to help create a golden, crispy crust during baking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes , or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
2. For extra browning, broil the meatloaf for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist texture.
2. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh garlic and parsley provide the best flavor compared to dried or powdered alternatives.
2. Don’t Overmix : Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Add Veggies : Stir in finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and moisture.
4. Make Ahead : Assemble the meatloaf ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
5. Switch Proteins : Substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.

Perfect Pairings

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed Potatoes : Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the savory juices.
• Roasted Vegetables : Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy touch.
• Green Salad : A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf.
• Garlic Bread : Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors of garlic and Parmesan.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories : ~290 kcal
• Protein : ~28g
• Carbohydrates : ~12g
• Fat : ~15g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its crispy crust, cheesy topping, and moist, savory interior.

The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both familiar and elevated—a true crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.