Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), finely ground; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup ketchup (optional: add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce)

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that combines comfort and gourmet flavors? Picture this: a tender, juicy meatloaf infused with the rich taste of garlic and the nutty essence of Parmesan cheese. This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is exactly what you need when you’re searching for something hearty yet sophisticated. The alluring aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your senses and promising an unforgettable dining experience.

This meatloaf is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. It’s a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering delight. As you slice into the golden exterior, the soft, flavorful interior beckons you to take that first bite. Each mouthful bursts with savory goodness, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients For Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts, finely ground or chopped, as they provide a lean and juicy base for the meatloaf.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor; minced garlic adds a robust kick to the meat mixture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the moist texture of the meatloaf.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients while adding a satisfying texture.
Eggs: Two large eggs act as binding agents, ensuring that your meatloaf holds together perfectly.
Milk: A splash of milk keeps the mixture moist and adds richness to every bite.

For the Sauce:

Ketchup: This classic topping adds sweetness and tang; feel free to mix in some Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Second Step : Mix the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined but avoid overmixing.

Third Step : Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it down into an even shape, ensuring no air pockets remain inside.

Fourth Step : Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and Worcestershire sauce until mixed well. Spread half of this sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Fifth Step : Bake

Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Final Step : Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle remaining sauce over each slice before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese will elevate this dish significantly in terms of flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to dense meatloaf; combine ingredients just until blended.
Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare your Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and seasonings. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix.

Next, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish. For added flavor, drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Bake for approximately 45 to 55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with various sides. Consider pairing it with:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the meatloaf perfectly.

Steamed Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.

Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meatloaf.

Storage Tips

Leftover Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice individual portions and microwave them for about one minute or until heated through. You may also bake the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf contains approximately 250 calories. It includes protein from chicken and healthy fats from olive oil and cheese. Additionally, each serving provides essential vitamins from garlic and parsley. Remember that portion sizes may vary based on personal dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for chicken in this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe. Ground turkey provides a similar texture and flavor profile while being slightly leaner than chicken. Make sure to monitor cooking times as ground turkey can sometimes require different baking durations.

What should I serve with this meatloaf recipe?

This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with various sides like garlic mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal option. Choose sides that balance the rich flavors of the meatloaf while providing nutritional benefits.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

To ensure that your Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check its internal temperature. The meatloaf should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that it is safe to eat while remaining moist and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in advance by mixing all ingredients together and shaping it into a loaf. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your final dish when baked fresh later on.