Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan in a hearty meatloaf form. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe brings together juicy ground chicken, rich Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella, all topped with savory marinara sauce. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the delicious combination of chicken and classic Italian ingredients.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this meal accessible, even for beginner cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will love it!
• Great Leftovers: Delicious reheated, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything at hand will help you focus on creating this tasty dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for shaping your meatloaf and ensures even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; larger bowls prevent spillage.
• Frying pan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables like onion and garlic to enhance their flavor before adding them to the meat mixture.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

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 and Topping

• 3 mozzarella cheese strings (cut into 1cm slices)
• 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 with cooking spray.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Let this cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix just until combined – don’t overmix.

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 the mozzarella cheese string pieces down the centre. Top with the remaining chicken mixture while sealing in the cheese.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce

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

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

While baking, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and parsley in a small bowl.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs

After 45 minutes of baking time, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese followed by sprinkling over breadcrumb mixture.

Step 8: Final Baking

Return to oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes until topping is golden brown and center reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your flavorful Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!

How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the meatloaf.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the meatloaf on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread to scoop up the delicious marinara sauce on top.

As Sandwiches

• Slice the leftovers and use them in sandwiches with fresh lettuce and tomatoes for a tasty lunch option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the meal perfectly.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include slices of meatloaf on a charcuterie board with cheeses, olives, and crackers for an impressive appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender and avoid a dense texture.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for better flavor.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust Italian seasoning or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick according to your taste.
• Cover with Foil: If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Pairing side dishes with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Roasted Vegetables
   Mix seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese provides freshness that contrasts beautifully with meatloaf’s richness.

3. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made of cabbage and carrots dressed in vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch to your plate.

4. Potato Wedges
   Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside the moist meatloaf.

5. Cauliflower Mash
   A creamy cauliflower mash is a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still delivers comfort without sacrificing flavor.

6. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the Italian flavors of the meatloaf.

7. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with broth provides an aromatic base that absorbs any delicious sauces from the meatloaf.

8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy garlic roasted potatoes are savory and pair perfectly with the moist texture of the meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to a dense meatloaf. Combine the ingredients just until they’re mixed for a tender texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the onion and garlic mixture to cool can lead to uneven cooking. Always let it cool before mixing with the chicken.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may result in undercooked meat. Always ensure it reaches 74°C (165°F) for safety.
• Not resting before slicing: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately will cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for 10 minutes for better slicing.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can affect flavor and texture. Opt for good quality Parmesan and mozzarella for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat for about 20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of one minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf that might help you:

How do I know when my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!

Can I add vegetables to Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can mix in finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Serve it with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey makes an excellent substitute while still maintaining great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile. It combines all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan into a comforting dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or veggies. Try making this recipe today, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for any dinner table!