Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s a delicious twist on a classic dish — **Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf** — that’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!

---

## 🧄🧀 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Comforting, Savory Spin on a Family Favorite

Looking to switch up your meatloaf game? This **Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf** is light, flavorful, and far from boring. Made with ground chicken, fresh garlic, herbs, and a generous dose of Parmesan cheese, it’s moist, tender, and **perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep**.

Unlike traditional meatloaf, this version is **lighter in fat** but just as comforting — and it’s a great way to sneak in flavor without relying on heavy sauces or beef.

---

## 🧾 Ingredients

* **1½ lbs ground chicken**

  *Leaner than beef, but still juicy when seasoned right.*

* **¾ cup breadcrumbs** (plain or Italian)

  *Helps bind the loaf and keep it moist.*

* **½ cup grated Parmesan cheese**

  *Adds nutty, salty flavor throughout.*

* **2 eggs**

  *Helps hold everything together.*

* **4 cloves garlic**, minced

  *For bold garlic flavor.*

* **¼ cup milk**

  *Adds moisture.*

* **1 tbsp chopped parsley** (fresh or dried)

* **1 tsp Italian seasoning**

* **½ tsp onion powder**

* **Salt & black pepper**, to taste

* **¼ cup shredded mozzarella** *(optional – for extra cheesy goodness inside or on top)*

---

## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### 🔹 1. Preheat Oven

* Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

### 🔹 2. Mix Ingredients

* In a large bowl, combine **ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, milk, and seasonings**.

* Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined — don’t overmix or it can become dense.

### 🔹 3. Shape the Meatloaf

* Transfer mixture into a loaf pan or form into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet.

* Optional: sprinkle **shredded mozzarella** on top for a cheesy crust.

### 🔹 4. Bake

* Bake for **45–50 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**.

* For a golden top, broil the last 2–3 minutes.

### 🔹 5. Rest and Slice

* Let the meatloaf rest for **5–10 minutes** before slicing. This helps the juices settle.

---

## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions

* Serve with **roasted potatoes**, **garlic green beans**, or **a simple side salad**.

* Spoon over a light **marinara sauce** or drizzle with **garlic butter** for extra flavor.

* Pair with **zucchini noodles** or cauliflower mash for a low-carb meal.

---

## 💡 Tips & Variations

* **Make it spicy**: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

* **Add veggies**: Finely chopped spinach, carrots, or mushrooms blend in well.

* **Gluten-free**: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

* **Mini meatloaves**: Make in a muffin tin for faster cooking and portion control.

---

## ❤️ Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

* Light and flavorful twist on a classic

* Juicy and tender, not dry

* Cheesy, garlicky, and loaded with herbs

* Kid-friendly and great for leftovers