If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and brimming with cheesy goodness, this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It’s a fantastic twist on traditional meatloaf, swapping ground beef for lean chicken and packing in layers of mozzarella and Parmesan that melt into every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe offers a delicious way to impress your family or friends with a dish that’s bursting with flavor, moisture, and that beautiful golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and the secret to this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe’s success. Each component plays a vital role—from the savory richness of Parmesan to the fresh parsley that brightens every mouthful. These simple, everyday items come together effortlessly for a spectacular result.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding richness without heaviness.
- Onion (80 g, finely diced): Offers sweetness and moisture, keeping the meatloaf tender.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds depth and a fragrant punch that awakens the senses.
- Ground chicken (900 g): A lean, juicy protein that forms the heart of the meatloaf.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (60 g): Help bind everything together and absorb juices for perfect texture.
- Milk (2 teaspoons): Keeps the mixture moist and tender during baking.
- Parmesan cheese (30 g grated + 20 g grated for topping): Offers a savory, umami-rich kick inside and a crispy, golden crust outside.
- Egg (1): Acts as a natural binder, holding the meat mixture firmly together.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons chopped + 1 tablespoon for topping): Gives a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A classic blend of herbs that imparts an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
- Mozzarella cheese strings (3, cut into 1cm slices): The melty, gooey surprise tucked inside the meatloaf.
- Marinara sauce (120 ml): Brings a tangy, tomatoey layer that perfectly complements the chicken and cheese.
- Panko breadcrumbs (2 tablespoons): Creates a crunchy topping to contrast the tender meatloaf.
- Butter (1 tablespoon, melted): Adds richness to the breadcrumb topping for a golden finish.
- Mozzarella cheese (120 g shredded): Melts over the top for extra cheesiness and a luscious texture.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 200°C (400°F). Lining your baking sheet with foil and giving it a quick spritz of cooking spray will ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Warm the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and gently cook the fine diced onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, around five minutes. This step unlocks essential sweetness and aroma that infuse the meatloaf with incredible flavor. Set this mixture aside to cool completely before mixing.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion and garlic mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, 30 grams of grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir these together just until everything comes together—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so treat it gently.
Step 4: Form Your Meatloaf and Add Cheese
On your prepared baking sheet, pat down about two-thirds of the chicken mixture into a 20cm by 10cm rectangle. Then, lay the mozzarella cheese string slices neatly down the center like a melty surprise core. Cover with the remaining chicken mixture and carefully shape it into a tight loaf, making sure to seal those cheesy treasures inside.
Step 5: Add Marinara and Start Baking
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf—it adds a tangy, flavorful layer that bakes into a beautiful glaze. Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, letting those flavors meld together and the edges form a light crust.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping Mix
While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, 20 grams of grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped fresh parsley. This mixture will bring a crunchy, golden finish that makes every bite unforgettable.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Crumb Topping
After 45 minutes, carefully take the meatloaf out of the oven. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella, then generously cover it with the breadcrumb mixture you prepared. This step will add incredible texture and cheesy goodness on top.
Step 8: Finish Baking
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake it for another 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked through and juicy.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe rest for about 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. Resting allows the juices to redistribute so every slice holds together beautifully and tastes amazing from start to finish.
How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper can brighten your Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe and add a pop of freshness. For a touch of zing, serve with a dollop of marinara sauce or a drizzle of balsamic reduction to complement the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a velvety polenta to soak up all those delicious juices. For a lighter note, toss together a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or roast some colorful seasonal vegetables alongside for added texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the meatloaf thick, arrange it on a rustic wooden board, and surround it with bowls of extra marinara, fresh basil leaves, and crusty garlic bread for a charming family-style dinner. Or, serve slices stacked atop toasted ciabatta for a gourmet sandwich experience that makes weeknight dinners feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days. This keeps the texture and flavors fresh, so reheated slices remain just as satisfying as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe at a later time, freeze it for up to two months. Wrap it well in aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve taste and texture.
Reheating
Warm leftover meatloaf slices gently in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to avoid drying out. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, checking frequently to keep the cheese melty and the meat juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will provide a similar mild flavor and lean texture. Just be mindful to monitor the cooking time as turkey can cook a little faster.
Is it necessary to use both Parmesan and mozzarella cheese?
While both cheeses add distinct textures and flavors—the salty, nutty Parmesan inside and the melty mozzarella string center—substitutions are possible depending on what you have on hand, but using both is ideal for the classic experience.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?
Yes, you can mix everything up to step 4 and refrigerate the uncooked meatloaf overnight. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready, add the marinara sauce, toppings, and bake as directed for freshest results.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs for the topping?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives that light, crispy finish that’s hard to beat. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, use them sparingly to avoid a dense topping.
How do I know when the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). The juices should run clear, and the topping will be golden and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
Making this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug on a plate. The combination of cheeses, herbs, and tender chicken comes together effortlessly to create something truly special and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience just how satisfying and delicious homemade meatloaf can be. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Print
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful and comforting dish combining ground chicken with aromatic herbs, Parmesan cheese, and gooey mozzarella in the center. Baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping and marinara sauce glaze, it’s a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that’s moist, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 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
- 3 mozzarella cheese strings (cut into 1cm slices)
Topping and Sauce
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow this mixture to cool completely before using.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, the cooled onion and garlic mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Gently mix just until all ingredients are combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form Meatloaf Base: Spread two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle approximately 20cm by 10cm.
- Add Cheese Center: Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese strings evenly down the center of the meat mixture rectangle to create a cheesy core.
- Seal Meatloaf: Carefully top the cheese with the remaining chicken mixture and shape the entire assembly into a loaf, ensuring the cheese is fully encased inside.
- Apply Marinara Sauce and Bake: Spread the marinara sauce evenly across the top of the meatloaf. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Prepare Topping Mixture: While baking, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a bowl to make the crispy topping.
- Add Cheese and Topping: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then evenly distribute the breadcrumb topping mixture over the cheese.
- Finish Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the topping turns golden and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F), indicating the meat is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes out of the oven to allow juices to redistribute before slicing and serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the onion and garlic mixture is completely cooled before adding to prevent partially cooking the egg or affecting texture.
- Do not overmix the chicken mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; the internal temperature should be 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain juices and improve sliceability.
- You can substitute mozzarella strings with similar mozzarella sticks or cut mozzarella blocks to maintain the gooey cheese center.
