This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic dish! It’s packed with flavor and a wonderful creamy texture that makes every bite delightful.
Who knew meatloaf could get this fancy? I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatloaf! If you want a leaner option, turkey works well too. For a different flavor, sausage can add a nice richness.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a light and crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but you might want to adjust the moisture a bit if they’re not as dry.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice salty kick. If you don’t have it, grated Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: This adds creaminess to the loaf. Milk can work in a pinch, but it will be a little less rich. For a lighter option, use low-fat yogurt or sour cream.
Onion and Garlic: Both add depth of flavor. If you’re tight on time, use onion powder and garlic powder instead. They won’t have that fresh kick, but they’ll still work!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is essential! Here are some simple tips to make sure it turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine them gently to maintain moisture.
- Let the onion and garlic sauté until they’re soft. This adds flavor without making the meatloaf dry.
- Consider adding ‘wet’ ingredients like cream cheese or chopped veggies (like spinach) to boost moisture.
- Rest the meatloaf after baking for 10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making it juicier when sliced.
With these tips, you’ll get a deliciously moist meatloaf every time! Enjoy your cooking!
takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking. So, you’ll need roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes total to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly. While the oven is heating, lightly grease or line a baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until they become fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, the cooled garlic and onion mixture, fresh parsley, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and heavy cream. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now! Mix everything together thoroughly, but do this gently to keep the meatloaf light and moist.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it is evenly shaped so it cooks properly.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Optional Topping:
If you want an extra cheesy topping, mix 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan with a little melted butter or olive oil. Spread this mixture on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a delightful crust.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it stay juicy and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm! It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or your favorite steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy chicken meatloaf!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for extra creaminess)
- Optional: 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach or other greens
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than chicken, so you might want to add an extra tablespoon of cream or keep an eye on the baking time.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. If you want to keep them moist, cover with foil during reheating.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with pasta and a simple garlic butter sauce for a comforting meal.
