Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a meatloaf that’s tender, packed with flavor, and impossible to resist. Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is just that—juicy chicken melded with savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a touch of herbs that dance on your taste buds. Each slice carries the perfect balance of lean protein and mouthwatering seasonings, making it a wholesome star of any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe comes together quickly and delivers big on flavor.

I still remember the first time I baked this loaf for a casual Sunday supper—my kitchen smelled like a cozy Italian trattoria, and even my picky eaters couldn’t resist a second helping. From the first forkful, you’ll notice how the breadcrumbs and egg create a tender crumb, while the chicken broth poured over the top locks in moisture. The melted mozzarella, golden and bubbly, adds a cheesy finale that will have everyone reaching for extra napkins. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your go-to recipe collection.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s chat about the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and aroma in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Understanding what each element brings helps you appreciate how effortlessly they come together to create a dinner that’s both elegant and approachable.

• Ground chicken

A lean protein base that keeps the loaf light yet satisfying. It soaks up seasonings beautifully and forms the tender foundation for every bite.

• Breadcrumbs

Acting as a binder, these help the meatloaf hold its shape. They also absorb excess juices, ensuring a moist but not soggy texture.

• Parmesan cheese

Adds a savory, umami-packed richness. The grated Parmesan melts gently into the mixture, enhancing depth and adding a subtle nuttiness.

• Parsley

Offers a bright, herbaceous lift. The finely chopped parsley speckles the loaf with fresh green flecks and balances the richness.

• Garlic

Provides an aromatic punch. Freshly minced garlic infuses the entire loaf with pungent, garlicky warmth.

• Egg

Works as a natural binder, keeping all ingredients cohesively together. It also adds moisture and a slight richness.

• Salt

Essential for enhancing and unlocking the flavors of each ingredient, from the chicken to the cheese and herbs.

• Black pepper

Offers a mild heat and a sharp finish that complements the garlic and cheese.

• Dried oregano

Introduces a classic Mediterranean herb note, bringing earthy, slightly peppery undertones.

• Dried thyme

Lends an aromatic, woodsy quality that harmonizes with the other herbs.

• Onion powder

Contributes a subtle sweetness and savory depth without the texture of chopped onions.

• Olive oil

Used to grease the loaf pan, ensuring an easy release and adding a light touch of fruity richness.

• Chicken broth

Poured on top before baking, it seeps in to maintain incredible moisture and juiciness.

• Mozzarella cheese

Sprinkled on the loaf for a melty, gooey topping that turns golden and bubbly under heat.

• Marinara sauce (optional)

A tangy, tomato-based finishing sauce that adds a bright contrast and extra layer of flavor.

HOW TO MAKE GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Bringing this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf to life is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. You’ll go from prep to plate in just over an hour, and the payoff is a juicy, flavorful loaf with a cheesy top that’s sure to impress. Let’s walk through each step in detail.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature so your meatloaf bakes through without drying out.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and beaten egg. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to mix well, making sure every bit of chicken is coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and onion powder. Stir again to incorporate the seasonings thoroughly, tasting a tiny bit of the raw mix (optional) to adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps you achieve clean slices when serving.

5. Transfer the chicken mixture into the loaf pan, using a spatula or your hands to press down gently and form a uniform surface. This helps the meatloaf hold together and cook evenly.

6. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the top of the meatloaf. The liquid seeps in during baking, adding moisture and preventing a dry interior.

7. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Avoid opening the oven door too often; this keeps the temperature steady.

8. Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. If you’re using marinara sauce, spread it over the cheese layer for a vibrant, tangy finish.

9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

10. Once baked, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps the juices redistribute, making slicing cleaner and the meatloaf more succulent.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Choosing the right sides and presentation can elevate this meatloaf dinner into a memorable meal. Whether you’re aiming for a light weeknight plate or a cozy family feast, these serving ideas will complement the rich garlic and Parmesan flavors while adding color and texture to the table.

• A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Use mixed greens, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes to balance the savory meatloaf.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli add vibrant colors and a slight char that pairs beautifully with the cheesy topping.
• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make the meal extra comforting. Whip Yukon Gold potatoes with butter, milk, and a hint of roasted garlic for a velvety side dish.
• Warm crusty bread or garlic butter dinner rolls help you scoop up every last bit of juices and sauce. A soft torn chunk of bread is perfect for mopping the plate.

HOW TO STORE GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this meatloaf’s delicious flavors beyond the initial meal. With a few simple steps, you’ll maintain tenderness and taste, whether you’re tucking away leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch or freezing portions for busy nights.

Leftover slices keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and cross-flavor contamination.

• Refrigeration method: After the meatloaf cools to room temperature, transfer individual slices to a sealed container, layering parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
• Freezer method: For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating tips: Gently reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave on medium power in short intervals to prevent dryness. A splash of chicken broth or a pat of butter can help maintain moisture.
• Make-ahead prep: You can assemble the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes weeknight dinners even smoother—just pop it in the oven when you get home.

CONCLUSION

From the first forkful of tender, herb-infused chicken to the gooey finish of melted mozzarella, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf brings both simplicity and elegance to your dinner rotation. With just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, a 40-minute bake time, and a 5-minute rest, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s gentle on the schedule but big on flavor. This beginner-friendly recipe proves that exciting, family-friendly dinners don’t need complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for meal prep, packing approximately 350 calories per serving, and it seamlessly slots into your dinner plans for any night of the week.

Feel free to print this article and save it for easy reference when you’re ready to cook, and check out the FAQ section below for answers to common questions. I’d love to hear how your meatloaf turns out—whether you’ve added spinach, swapped in sun-dried tomatoes, or stuck to the classics. Share your comments, questions, or feedback if you try this recipe or need a hand troubleshooting any step. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Author: Annie Delgado Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr

Calories: 350

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers a juicy, savory taste with aromatic garlic and rich Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound ground chicken

• ¹⁄₂ cup breadcrumbs

• ¹⁄₄ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¹⁄₄ cup finely chopped parsley

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg, beaten

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ¹⁄₄ cup chicken broth

• ¹⁄₄ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Optional: 1 tablespoon marinara sauce for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and onion powder. Mix again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Transfer the chicken mixture into the loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even surface.
6. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist while cooking.
7. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. If using marinara sauce, spread it on top of the cheese.
9. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the meatloaf is cooked through.
10. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Note

• The mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making it convenient for meal prep.
• For a crispier top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
• This meatloaf pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Feel free to experiment with adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor variations.

Keywords: chicken, meatloaf, garlic, parmesan, easy recipe, dinner