Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Introduction
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is loved by many. This recipe takes a unique twist on the traditional meatloaf by using chicken instead of beef and adding a delicious garlic parmesan flavor. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping for the week ahead. It is packed with protein and flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Follow this recipe to create a moist and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Steps
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, ketchup, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Shape the meatloaf
Transfer the mixture to the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape. Make sure the meatloaf is compact and evenly distributed in the pan.
Step 4: Bake the meatloaf
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The top of the meatloaf should be golden brown.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the flavors to settle and the meatloaf to hold its shape. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Variations
While this garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Add diced onions and bell peppers to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for a different texture.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Top the meatloaf with a layer of marinara sauce or barbecue sauce before baking for extra moisture and flavor.
Tips
- Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option, but make sure to add enough moisture to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley or other herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and make it easier to slice without falling apart.
- Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf is a tasty and satisfying dish that brings a new twist to the traditional meatloaf. With its flavorful combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and ground chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this meatloaf is easy to make and full of deliciousness. Try out this recipe and enjoy a moist and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds!
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey may require a bit longer to cook.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
3. Can I make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf?
Absolutely! You can shape the mixture into individual mini loaves and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them while baking to ensure they are cooked through.
4. Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use dried garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 3 cloves of fresh garlic.
5. Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
