Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic Italian chicken parmesan. With layers of melted mozzarella and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines the comforting texture of meatloaf with the savory flavors of chicken parmesan, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this dish as a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and marinara sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will appreciate this delicious take on chicken parmesan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the meatloaf and ensures proper heat distribution.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Pan: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, enhancing their flavors before mixing them into the meatloaf.

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 with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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 before adding it to the meat mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Form the Meatloaf

Pat two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle about 20cm x 10cm. Place the sliced mozzarella strings down the center and top with the remaining chicken mixture. Shape it into a loaf form, ensuring the cheese is sealed inside.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce

Spread marinara sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. Bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Topping

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

Step 7: Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs

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

Step 8: Finish Baking

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

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate its delicious flavors.

Classic Presentation

• Serve slices of meatloaf on a plate, topped with extra marinara sauce for a traditional look.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the meatloaf atop a bed of sautéed spinach or mixed greens for a healthy twist.

In a Sandwich

• Slice and serve between crusty bread with lettuce and tomato for a hearty sandwich option.

How to Perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

To achieve the perfect Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, consider these helpful tips that can make your dish more flavorful and juicy.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken will boost the overall taste.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender and avoid toughness.

• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure it reaches 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption without overcooking.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Pairing your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a classic comfort food pairing.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables, roasted until caramelized, adds color and nutrition.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.

4. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and a slight crunch to the meal.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A bright quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a healthy grain option.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini dressed in olive oil creates a low-carb, delicious alternative to pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the cooling step: Letting the onion and garlic cool is essential. If you skip this step, it can raise the temperature of the chicken mixture and affect the texture of your meatloaf.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can result in a dense meatloaf. Combine ingredients just until they are mixed to keep it tender and fluffy.
• Not sealing the cheese: When adding mozzarella, make sure it’s well-covered by chicken mixture. Leaving gaps can cause the cheese to leak out during baking.
• Neglecting to rest before slicing: Allowing your meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes helps it hold its shape when sliced. Cutting too soon can make it fall apart.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Always check that your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) for safety. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil to maintain freshness.

Freezing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• • Containers: Wrap in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use freezer bags.

Reheating Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F) and reheat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Slice and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Your meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). A meat thermometer is the best tool for this.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe while still providing a delicious flavor.

What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out mozzarella for your favorite cheese varieties.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on classic flavors that offers both comfort and taste. It’s versatile enough for customization based on personal preferences, so feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses. Try this recipe today for a satisfying dinner option that everyone will love!