Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1½ lbs ground chicken; 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain); 2 large eggs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup milk; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); ¼ cup grated mozzarella (for topping); Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf because it’s light yet packed with flavor. The ground chicken keeps it moist and tender, while the garlic and Parmesan add that savory depth that I crave. The breadcrumb mixture binds everything together beautifully, making each bite soft and satisfying. The mozzarella on top melts into a gooey, cheesy layer that takes it to the next level. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this meatloaf is always a hit.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated mozzarella (for topping)
Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, milk, garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
In the final 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste. You can swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it gluten-free. For added flavor, you could mix in some sautéed onions or bell peppers, or even add a handful of spinach for extra nutrition. You could also switch the mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheese experience.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers of this meatloaf store really well! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just slice the meatloaf and microwave it, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The flavors continue to meld and improve the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

FAQs

Can I use something other than ground chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey, lean beef, or even a mix of ground beef and chicken would work perfectly in this recipe. Each will give the meatloaf a slightly different flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Definitely! You can freeze the entire meatloaf or individual slices. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.

How do I keep the meatloaf from being too dry?

The key to keeping this meatloaf juicy is not overmixing the ingredients. Just mix until everything is combined, and avoid pressing the meat mixture down in the pan. The breadcrumbs and milk will help retain moisture. If you find your meatloaf is still a bit dry, you can add more milk to the mixture next time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just transfer it to the loaf pan and bake as directed. This can save time on busy days while still giving you a delicious dinner.

Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots would be great additions to the meatloaf mixture. Just make sure to chop them very finely to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the meatloaf.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful Italian twist. It’s juicy, tender, and cheesy with the perfect balance of savory spices. Whether I’m serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even on a sandwich the next day, it’s always a hit with the family. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a deliciously lightened-up twist.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf