Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a twist on the classic Italian dish, blending savory chicken with rich Parmesan and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for dinner gatherings or weeknight meals, this meatloaf is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its flavorful layers and comforting textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is simple and requires just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: With the combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, every bite bursts with Italian-inspired flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, a fresh salad, or even on its own. It’s a versatile meal option that fits any occasion.
• Great for Leftovers: This meatloaf keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses to make this meatloaf your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this mouthwatering meatloaf, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even baking and easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Frying pan: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before mixing them into the meatloaf.

Ingredients

To create this delightful 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 Cheese 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.

Step 2: Sauté Onions 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: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, 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, then top with the remaining chicken mixture. Shape into a proper loaf, sealing the cheese inside.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce

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

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

Meanwhile, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, and parsley for the topping.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top with shredded mozzarella, then sprinkle over the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 8: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until topping is golden and center reaches 74°C (165°F).

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your hearty slice of Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, perfect for any dinner occasion!

How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Serving Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful experience, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together some arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: A classic choice with crunchy romaine, croutons, and a creamy dressing complements the meatloaf well.

Over Pasta

• Spaghetti: Serve slices of meatloaf over spaghetti with extra marinara sauce for a heartier meal.
• Penne Arrabbiata: The spicy tomato sauce pairs nicely with the savory meatloaf flavors.

With Garlic Bread

• Homemade Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter adds a crispy texture that balances the softness of the meatloaf.
• Herbed Focaccia: This flavorful bread can soak up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned and roasted until crispy, this veggie adds a nutritious crunch.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans offer freshness and color to your plate.

How to Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the overall taste of your meatloaf.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until they are mixed; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps it hold its shape when slicing.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing different cheeses for varied flavors; cheddar or provolone can be great alternatives.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Pairing side dishes with your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf elevates your meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic make for a comforting side dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender complement the main dish beautifully.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the meatloaf.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a tangy bite that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and filled with nutrients, they are a perfect companion for savory dishes like meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to keep your meatloaf delicious.

• Using overly lean chicken: Opt for ground chicken that has some fat content. This prevents the meatloaf from becoming dry.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mix just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and moisture.
• Not checking internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 74°C (165°F) for safety and doneness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season well! Adding salt and herbs enhances the overall flavor of your meatloaf.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.

Freezing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and reheat in short intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Slice and heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf that might help you out.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will work well in this recipe while keeping it flavorful.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers or oats as alternatives if you need a different texture or flavor profile.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?

Be sure to include an egg as a binder and don’t overmix your ingredients; this will help maintain its shape.

Can I make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) for proper doneness.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers an exciting twist on traditional meatloaf with its rich flavors and cheesy center. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or different cheeses based on your preferences!