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image of realistic top down mise en place shot showing ground chicken parmesan cheese breadcrumbs panko eggs garlic onion parsley milk Italian seasoning salt pepper mozzarella cheese marinara sauce lemon zest arranged on a white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
C. Motter Cindy

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This juicy Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a lighter, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, featuring ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and garlic for a moist, savory dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

The Meat
  • 1.5 lbs ground chicken 92-95% lean for best moisture
The Binder
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half for richness
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
The Flavor Base
  • 1/2 yellow onion finely minced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch lemon zest optional, for brightness
The Glaze
  • 1/2 cup high-quality marinara sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Equipment

  • loaf pan,
  • large mixing bowl,
  • skillet,
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Prepare the Pan and Oven
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until the panko absorbs the liquid.
  2. While the panko soaks, sauté the minced onion and garlic in a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the cooked onion/garlic mixture, beaten egg, chopped parsley, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon zest to the bowl with the soaked panko. Mix thoroughly until combined.
  3. Add the ground chicken to the bowl. Using clean hands, gently fold and combine the ingredients just until incorporated. Avoid overworking to prevent a dense texture.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press gently and evenly into the pan (do not pack tightly).
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the marinara sauce, brown sugar or honey, and dried oregano.
  6. Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and spread half of the glaze evenly over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 20-30 minutes.
  7. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), using a meat thermometer. Total bake time is typically 50-60 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for 10 minutes to redistribute juices. Use parchment overhang to lift out, then slice.
  9. Serve thick slices with remaining warm glaze or fresh marinara on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15g

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 165°F for food safety and juiciness. For variations, substitute ground turkey for chicken or use almond flour instead of panko for a gluten-free version. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for best results.
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