Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet surprisingly simple to make, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are an absolute gem. Imagine tender, juicy chicken blended with the sharp nuttiness of Parmesan, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, all baked into mini meatloaves that deliver a comforting, mouthwatering experience every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals ahead, this recipe brings together wholesome ingredients that transform ordinary chicken into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves come together with straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each add their own magic to the dish. From the rich Parmesan cheese that deepens flavor to the garlic that gives a bright, savory punch, every item is essential to create the perfect balance of taste and texture.

• 450 grams ground chicken: The lean base of your meatloaf, ensuring a tender and juicy outcome.
• 60 grams grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that elevates the entire loaf.
• 60 grams breadcrumbs: Helps bind the ingredients and keeps the meatloaf comfortably moist.
• 15 grams fresh parsley, finely chopped: Offers a fresh herbal note and a splash of green color.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: A bold punch of flavor that’s essential in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the garlic and cheese.
• 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance the richness.
• 60 millilitres whole milk: Keeps the mixture moist and tender as it bakes.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Drizzled on top to create a golden, slightly crispy crust.
• 25 grams grated mozzarella cheese (optional): A melty, creamy topping that adds indulgence and a beautiful finish.

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 simple setup ensures your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves won’t stick and will bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all those fantastic flavors. This step is key to infusing every bite with the rich taste you’re craving.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Pour in the whole milk, then gently mix the ingredients until everything binds into a uniform, cohesive mixture. The milk helps keep the meatloaves tender and juicy once they’re baked, making a big difference in the final texture.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaves

Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a compact mini loaf. Make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape but not overpacked, which keeps the loaves light and moist.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Place each mini loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking. Drizzle the tops with extra virgin olive oil to encourage browning and a slightly crispy exterior. If you like, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top for an irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 74°C. Once done, let them rest for 5 minutes; this step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves works beautifully as a garnish, adding a burst of color and fresh flavor contrast to the rich meatloaves. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of homemade garlic aioli can also elevate presentation and taste, making your meal feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These meatloaves pair wonderfully with vibrant side dishes such as a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables that add color and nutrition. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta also complement the tender chicken and cheesy notes perfectly, rounding out the meal to comfort-food perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your mini Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves on toasted garlic bread slices or slider buns for a hearty sandwich. Alternatively, slice them and layer over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs for an Italian-inspired feast. Presentation is all about making the dish feel as inviting as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy the flavors again quickly, whether for lunch or a quick dinner fix.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap each meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze when there isn’t much time to cook.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen meatloaves in the fridge overnight, then warm them in a 175°C oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them covered to retain moisture, but oven reheating helps maintain that wonderful texture and crisp exterior.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves?

Absolutely! While ground chicken keeps this recipe light and tender, you can substitute ground turkey or even a mixture of ground pork for deeper flavor and richness. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder?

Fresh garlic is preferred for its vibrant, robust flavor that really makes these meatloaves shine. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work—use about 1 teaspoon to substitute for the minced cloves to maintain the garlicky punch.

Can I make the meatloaves dairy-free?

Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses or replace them with dairy-free alternatives. You might want to add a bit more seasoning or nutritional yeast to provide that cheesy flavor note.

How do I ensure the meatloaves stay moist?

The key is not overmixing the ingredients and using milk as stated in the recipe. Also, avoid packing the loaves too tightly when shaping them. These steps help keep the texture light and juicy rather than dense and dry.

Can I prepare these meatloaves in advance?

Definitely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the mini loaves a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This little time saver makes dinner prep on busy days so much easier.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves, they’ll likely become a staple in your recipe rotation. They balance comforting familiarity with bold, savory flavors, all while being quick and satisfying to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy the delightful combination of garlic, Parmesan, and chicken in a comforting mini meatloaf form. Give them a go—you’ll be so glad you did!

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