Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
A delightful twist on classic comfort food, this meatloaf combines tender ground chicken with robust garlic and parmesan for a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for families and gatherings.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 320kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground chicken (85/15 blend recommended for moisture)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a delightful crunch)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (to soften)
- 1 large egg (binding agent)
- 1/2 cup yellow onion (finely diced for sweetness)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced to enhance flavor)
- 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese (grated for depth)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped for freshness)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning (for aromatic complexity)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (extra flavor boost)
- 1 tsp onion powder (to complement the onion)
- 1 tsp salt (to enhance flavors)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for richness)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (adds moisture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for added richness)
- 3 tbsp butter (melted for glaze)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced for the topping)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated for the glaze)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped for garnishing)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for the glaze)
- Extra parmesan for sprinkling (for serving)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (to elevate presentation)
- Lemon wedges (optional but highly recommended for a burst of freshness)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let it rest for about five minutes.
- Once the breadcrumbs have absorbed the milk, add the egg, diced onion, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything gently until combined.
- Add the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir until smooth.
- Gently fold in the ground chicken using your hands, ensuring not to overmix.
Cooking
- Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a loaf about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, parsley, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.
- Once the meatloaf has cooked through, brush the garlic parmesan glaze generously over the top and sides. Return it to the oven for another five minutes until the glaze is golden and bubbling.
Serving
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve slices garnished with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.
Notes
The addition of mayonnaise enhances moisture and flavor. Optional extras include diced jalapeños or bell peppers. Using a thermometer is vital for perfect cooking. Swap out parsley for thyme or basil as desired. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.