Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are exactly what you need. These mini loaves bring together tender ground chicken infused with fragrant garlic, savory Parmesan, and a touch of fresh herbs, all baked to a golden perfection. They’re a wonderful twist on classic meatloaf, delivering moist, flavorful bites that will quickly become a favorite weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves lies in a group of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—adding flavor, texture, or moisture, so the final dish is perfectly balanced and satisfying.

• 450 grams ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps these meatloaves light yet juicy.
• 60 grams grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 60 grams breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together while adding a gentle crumbly texture.
• 15 grams fresh parsley, finely chopped: A burst of green freshness that brightens each bite.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: The aromatic star giving these meatloaves their irresistible garlicky kick.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder, holding all the ingredients in harmony.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a subtle herbaceous note, adding complexity without overwhelming.
• 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt: Essential to elevate all the flavors in the meatloaves.
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the garlic and Parmesan.
• 60 millilitres whole milk: Keeps the mixture moist, ensuring tender meatloaves that won’t dry out.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Drizzled on top before baking to encourage a golden, flavorful crust.
• 25 grams grated mozzarella cheese (optional): For a melty, indulgent topping that turns the meatloaves into mini masterpieces.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and helps the mini meatloaves bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, freshly chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Take your time mixing—getting everything evenly distributed is key to flavor consistency in each bite.

Step 3: Incorporate the Milk

Pour the whole milk into the mixture and gently fold it in until the blend feels uniform and cohesive. The milk adds moisture and tenderness, so don’t skip this step or overmix, as you want to keep the texture just right.

Step 4: Shape the Mini Loaves

Divide the meat mixture evenly into four portions. Shape each portion into a compact mini loaf and place them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one. These smaller portions bake faster and have more crust-to-center ratio, offering you extra crunch and juiciness.

Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Optional Cheese

Drizzle each mini loaf with the extra virgin olive oil to promote that golden crust and enhanced flavor during baking. If you love cheesy toppings, sprinkle the grated mozzarella over the tops now—it will melt and create a delightful cheesy layer that’s just irresistible.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the meatloaves turn a gorgeous golden color on top and the internal temperature reads 74°C (165°F). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy and tender.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to settle, making each slice moist and flavorful when you dig in.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Garnishes

To elevate your dish even further, garnish these meatloaves with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a touch of balsamic reduction also complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think roasted vegetables for a hearty meal, a crisp green salad for freshness, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of flavor. Even a simple side of garlic bread can make the meal feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice these mini meatloaves and serve them on toasted baguette slices as savory sliders. You can also crumble them over a mixed green salad or serve alongside grilled veggies for a light yet satisfying bowl. Their size makes them perfect for party platters or bento-style lunches too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps preserve the moisture and vibrant flavors of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves.

Freezing

These mini loaves freeze really well! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready for you to enjoy a quick, protein-packed meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power, but the oven method preserves the texture best.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a slightly different flavor profile but still pairs beautifully with the garlic and Parmesan.

Is it necessary to add breadcrumbs?

Yes, breadcrumbs are important as they help bind the meat mixture and create a tender texture. However, if you prefer, you can substitute with crushed crackers or oats.

Can I make these meatloaves gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet without sacrificing texture or flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

No worries—dried parsley can be used, though fresh parsley adds a brighter, fresher taste to the meatloaves. If using dried, use about one-third of the fresh amount.

How can I tell when the meatloaves are fully cooked?

The best way is to check their internal temperature—it should reach 74°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, bake until they’re golden on top and firm to the touch, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a true crowd-pleaser, blending simple ingredients into a dish full of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re making dinner for family or prepping meals for the week, they hit the perfect balance of easy, delicious, and satisfying. Give them a try—you might just add a new favorite to your recipe collection!

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