If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful take on traditional meatloaf, our Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the perfect dish. This easy-to-make recipe brings together the savory flavors of chicken parmesan with the comforting textures of meatloaf, offering a dish that’s tender, juicy, and satisfying. With its cheesy center and crispy topping, this meatloaf is a family-friendly meal that will quickly become a favorite in your home.
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Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers a blend of flavors that make it stand out from the usual meatloaf recipes. It’s a quick, healthy alternative to the classic beef version, and its cheesy, Italian-inspired flavors give it a unique twist. Whether you’re a fan of chicken parmesan or simply looking for a lighter version of meatloaf, this recipe will hit the spot. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for sandwiches or quick meals the next day!
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
To make this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• Ground Chicken: The base of the meatloaf, lean and packed with protein
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds flavor and helps bind the meat mixture
• Breadcrumbs: Provides texture and helps hold the meatloaf together
• Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the filling, delivering gooey cheese in every bite
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and gives the meatloaf structure
• Italian Seasoning: Brings out the classic Italian flavors
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to balance the rich flavors
• Garlic and Onion: For a savory base of flavor
• Marinara Sauce: Topped on the meatloaf for that authentic chicken parmesan taste
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a crisp, golden topping
• Butter: Adds richness to the breadcrumb topping
• Shredded Mozzarella: Adds a melty, cheesy top that’s irresistible
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for variations or need to adjust for dietary preferences, here are some alternatives:
• Ground Turkey: Swap the ground chicken for turkey for a leaner option
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
• Vegan Cheese: Try dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly dish
• Almond Milk: If you’re lactose intolerant, substitute regular milk with almond milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, sautéed onion and garlic, and mix gently until just combined.
- Place two-thirds of the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the mixture into a rectangle, leaving space for the mozzarella filling.
- Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices in the center of the meat mixture, then top with the remaining meat mixture to form a loaf around the cheese.
- Pour marinara sauce over the top of the loaf and bake for 45 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the loaf along with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese stays intact.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Meatloaf
To ensure your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest after baking to avoid it falling apart when you slice it.
• Check the Internal Temperature: Make sure the meatloaf reaches 165°F in the center to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Adjust the Marinara: If you prefer a spicier kick, choose a spicy marinara sauce or add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to avoid a tough texture.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery potatoes complement the savory meatloaf flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss some carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers with olive oil and Italian seasoning, and roast them alongside the meatloaf for a complete meal.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the meatloaf.
For a fun twist, try making mini meatloafs by shaping the mixture into individual portions using muffin tins, or even shaping them into patties for easy weeknight meals.
Seasonal and Health Benefits of Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This dish can easily be adapted to suit different seasons. During the cooler months, the rich flavors of Parmesan and marinara are especially comforting. Additionally, by using lean ground chicken, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf, providing a high-protein, lower-fat option without sacrificing flavor.
By using fresh herbs like parsley and seasoning with Italian spices, you’re also adding beneficial antioxidants and nutrients, making this meal not only delicious but also nourishing.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of chicken parmesan in a hearty, satisfying form. With its cheesy filling, crispy topping, and flavorful seasoning, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. This recipe is a great option for meal prep, and its leftovers can easily be enjoyed in sandwiches or as part of another meal.
For a lighter, family-friendly dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, give this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf a try.
FAQ About Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe. Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option or if chicken isn’t available. Just ensure that the turkey is seasoned properly to achieve the same delicious flavor.
How do I prevent the mozzarella cheese from leaking out of the meatloaf?
To prevent the mozzarella cheese from leaking, it’s important to use the right kind of cheese and ensure it’s sealed properly inside the meat mixture. Using cheese strings, as suggested in the recipe, works best, as they hold their shape better than shredded cheese. Also, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and try not to overfill it with cheese.
Can I make this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to one day before baking. If you want to freeze it, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf (without the topping) for up to four months. Just be sure to label it and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
More Relevant Recipes
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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious, cheesy, and tender twist on traditional meatloaf. Made with ground chicken, seasoned with Italian herbs, and filled with mozzarella cheese, it offers a healthier, lighter alternative to the classic beef version. Topped with marinara sauce and a crispy breadcrumb layer, this recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 mozzarella cheese strings (cut into 1/2″ slices)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons Panko bread crumbs
- 1 1/2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, sautéed onion and garlic. Mix gently until just combined.
- Place two-thirds of the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten it into a rectangle, leaving space for the mozzarella filling.
- Place the mozzarella cheese slices in the center of the meat mixture and top with the remaining meat mixture to form a loaf around the cheese.
- Pour marinara sauce over the top of the loaf and bake for 45 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the meatloaf along with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese stays intact.
Notes
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps it maintain its shape and prevents cheese leakage.
- Use mozzarella cheese strings for the best melting result.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 469
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 897mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 189mg
