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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf (Juicy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food)
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf — juicy, packed with flavor, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Unlike traditional beef meatloaf, this lighter version uses ground chicken for a tender texture without sacrificing richness, and it’s seasoned with garlic, parmesan, and herbs for that irresistible savory kick.
Paired with your favorite roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, this chicken meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect dish for cozy nights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Juicy and tender chicken base
- Flavor-packed with garlic and parmesan
- Easy to prepare in under 60 minutes
- Works well for family meals or meal prep
- Can be customized with herbs, spices, or low-carb ingredients
The addition of parmesan and garlic transforms simple chicken into a comforting, savory dish reminiscent of classic meatloaf but lighter and juicier.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (optional for topping)
Optional topping:
- 2 tablespoons ketchup or sugar-free tomato sauce
- Extra parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix meatloaf ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape into a loaf. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape into a uniform loaf.
- Add topping. Brush the top with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with extra parmesan. Optionally, add ketchup or tomato sauce on top for a glossy finish.
- Bake. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps slices from falling apart.
- Serve. Slice and enjoy with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf (Juicy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food)
A juicy, garlic and parmesan-infused chicken meatloaf that’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare loaf pan.
- Mix ground chicken, parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Shape mixture into a loaf in the pan.
- Brush top with olive oil or butter and sprinkle extra parmesan.
- Bake 35–45 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing for juicier slices.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Meatloaf
1. Don’t Overmix
Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
2. Keep It Moist
Ground chicken can dry out easily — milk, parmesan, and an egg help retain moisture.
3. Add Flavor
Fresh garlic, herbs, and parmesan create a deep, savory flavor profile.
4. Rest Before Slicing
Allowing the meatloaf to rest ensures juiciness and cleaner slices.
Flavor Variations
Italian Style
Add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella for a cheesy, Italian-inspired twist.
Low Carb/Keto
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Sweet & Savory
Top with a thin layer of honey mustard or barbecue sauce for a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.
- Low-carb option: Pair with cauliflower mash and steamed broccoli.
- Meal prep: Slice and store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
For presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley or a little extra parmesan on top before serving.
Why Ground Chicken Works So Well
Ground chicken has a mild flavor that lets herbs, garlic, and parmesan shine. It’s also lower in fat and calories than traditional beef meatloaf, making it a lighter, yet still satisfying option.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store sliced meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave slices for 1–2 minutes.
Nutrition Benefits
- High protein
- Lower in fat compared to beef meatloaf
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from garlic and herbs
- Can be adapted to low-carb or keto-friendly diets
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a mix of chicken and turkey?
Yes! Ground turkey or a 50/50 blend works beautifully for flavor and texture.
Can I bake without a loaf pan?
Yes, shape into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Replace parmesan with a non-dairy cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It brings together the comfort of a classic meatloaf with the lightness of ground chicken, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.
With garlic, parmesan, and herbs infusing every bite, this recipe proves that comfort food can be wholesome, flavorful, and easy to make. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a plate of pure, juicy comfort.