Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf captures the essence of classic Italian flavors in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this meatloaf is sure to delight. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella and topped with rich marinara sauce, it’s an exciting twist on traditional chicken meatloaf that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese and gooey mozzarella creates a savory explosion in every bite.
• Simple to prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish without hassle.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect as a main course or sliced for sandwiches the next day; it’s delicious any way you enjoy it.
• Family-friendly: This recipe is sure to satisfy picky eaters, making it great for family dinners.
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick weeknight meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for shaping and cooking the meatloaf evenly while allowing excess grease to drain.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is necessary to combine all ingredients without spilling, ensuring thorough mixing.
• Frying pan: Used to sauté onions and garlic, enhancing their flavor before incorporating them into the meat mixture.

Ingredients

This Italian-inspired chicken meatloaf is packed with Parmesan, stuffed with melted mozzarella, and topped with marinara sauce and crispy breadcrumbs – all the flavours of chicken parmesan in meatloaf form!

For the Meatloaf

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 80 g onion (finely diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 900 g ground chicken
• 60 g seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons milk
• 30 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 3 mozzarella cheese strings (cut into 1cm slices)

For Topping

• 120 ml marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
• 20 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 120 g mozzarella cheese (shredded)

How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook the finely diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Once done, let this mixture cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ground chicken
2. Cooled onion mixture
3. Seasoned breadcrumbs
4. Milk
5. Grated Parmesan cheese
6. Egg
7. Chopped parsley
8. Italian seasoning
9. Salt

Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Pat two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 20cm x 10cm. Arrange mozzarella cheese string pieces down the center of this layer. Top with the remaining chicken mixture and shape it into a loaf, sealing the cheese inside.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce and Bake

Spread marinara sauce over the top of your meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

While baking, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a small bowl for topping.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top it with shredded mozzarella cheese followed by sprinkling on the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 8: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top and cooked through (center should reach 74°C or 165°F).

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it up and serving! Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!

How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Serving Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can be as delightful as making it. The rich flavors and textures provide a great base for a variety of side dishes and garnishes that enhance the meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread complements the dish perfectly, adding another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Add Roasted Vegetables

• Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a colorful plate alongside the meatloaf.

Serve with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs well with the savory meatloaf, especially when topped with gravy.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

To ensure your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use lean ground chicken: This helps keep the meatloaf moist without excess fat.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes ensures easier slicing and better flavor retention.
• Check internal temperature: Ensure the center reaches 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile further.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley, garlic, and onion will elevate the overall taste of your meatloaf.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Complementing your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and richness alongside meatloaf.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color, making for a healthy accompaniment.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet and savory bites complement the flavors of the meatloaf beautifully.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons provides crunch and freshness.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance to your dinner plate.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish seasoned with herbs provides a wholesome alternative to traditional sides.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can cut through the richness of the meatloaf while adding crunch.
8. Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy fries are a fun twist that pairs well with any main dish, including meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, be aware of these common pitfalls.

• Overmixing the meat – Mixing too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine the ingredients just until blended for a tender texture.
• Skipping the cooling step – Not allowing the onion and garlic mixture to cool can affect the meatloaf’s texture. Always let it cool before mixing it with the chicken.
• Ignoring internal temperature – Underbaking can cause food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 74°C (165°F) in the center.
• Not sealing the cheese properly – If you don’t seal the mozzarella in, it may leak out during baking. Make sure to fully encase it with chicken mixture.
• Using stale breadcrumbs – Stale breadcrumbs won’t provide the desired texture. Always use fresh or properly stored breadcrumbs for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Oven – Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop – Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent sticking, for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.

How do I ensure my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf stays moist?

To keep your meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing and incorporate milk or broth into your mixture. Adding moisture-rich ingredients helps too.

Can I customize my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor. Different cheeses can also enhance its taste.

What sides pair well with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements its flavors perfectly.

How long does it take to make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

From prep to table, this delicious dish takes about 90 minutes total, including cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that combines rich Italian flavors and textures. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional cheeses!

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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan into a hearty, satisfying dish. This meatloaf features tender ground chicken mixed with rich Parmesan cheese and gooey mozzarella, all topped with zesty marinara sauce and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for meal prep or next-day sandwiches. With every bite, you’ll experience a savory explosion of Italian goodness that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 900g ground chicken
• 60g seasoned breadcrumbs
• 30g grated Parmesan cheese
• 120ml marinara sauce
• 120g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 80g finely diced onion
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 mozzarella cheese strings, cut into 1cm slices
• 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
• 20g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
2. In a frying pan over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened; allow to cool.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooled onion mixture, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt until just combined.
4. Form two-thirds of the mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet. Place mozzarella strips down the center and cover with remaining mixture.
5. Spread marinara sauce on top and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan in a bowl; set aside.
7. Top meatloaf with shredded mozzarella and breadcrumb mixture; return to oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg