Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Cooking method
Follow these steps to create your own Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, and minced garlic.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also slice it and serve it in a sandwich, topped with some fresh basil for an Italian twist. Feel free to add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is easy! Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and place it in an airtight container to freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined helps prevent the meatloaf from becoming dense.
- Moisture Mix: For added moisture, incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the mix.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, a meat thermometer is a reliable tool for checking the internal temperature.
Creative twists
While this recipe is absolutely delicious as is, you can easily customize it. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, or add herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh twist. You might also consider topping your meatloaf with a tangy barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato glaze before baking.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time for this recipe is about 70 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep and 50-60 minutes of baking.
Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground beef, turkey, or pork, depending on your preference.
What is the best way to ensure food safety?
Always use a meat thermometer to check that your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Additionally, store leftovers promptly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
A delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, featuring garlic and Parmesan for rich flavors while staying budget-friendly and healthy.
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground chicken (Light and healthy alternative to beef)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Can substitute with another hard cheese)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (Provides a nice texture)
- 2 large eggs (Acts as a binder)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Enhances flavor)
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, and minced garlic.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
Baking
- Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
To serve, consider pairing with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also slice and serve in a sandwich with fresh basil or drizzle with balsamic glaze. Store leftovers wrapped tightly for up to 3 days, or freeze sliced portions for up to 3 months.
