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recipe image of realistic top down mise en place shot showing the fresh ingredients arranged on a white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight ground chicken parmesan cheese grated mozzarella cheese panko or plain breadcrumbs eggs marinara or tomato sauce onion diced minced garlic cloves fresh parsley italian seasoning dried basil dried oregano dried thyme milk or heavy cream worcestershire sauce kosher salt black pepper red pepper flakes optional lemon zest optional fennel seeds optional dijon mustard optional for glaze ketchup alternative topping brown sugar for glaze anchovy paste optional diced zucchini and carrots moisture additions panko crust topping
C. Motter Cindy

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

A juicy and tender Italian-style chicken meatloaf infused with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that feels celebratory and comforting.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs Ground Chicken preferably 93% lean for best moisture balance
  • 1/2 cup Yellow Onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Whole Milk or heavy cream for richer texture
  • 1 large Large Egg beaten
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese plus extra for topping
  • 1/4 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese for topping
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper ground
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley minced
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil for sautéing
  • 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce high-quality, for glazing and serving

Equipment

  • oven
  • large mixing bowl,
  • Small skillet
  • Loaf Pan or Baking Sheet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small skillet, sauté the diced onion in 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute. Allow to cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, milk, and beaten egg. Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes to allow breadcrumbs to hydrate.
  3. Stir the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the bowl, followed by the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix well until evenly distributed.
  4. Add the ground chicken to the mixture. Using clean hands, mix gently just until combined and large clumps are broken down. Do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or onto the baking sheet, forming a uniform loaf shape. Brush the top lightly with a tablespoon of the marinara sauce.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes (free-form on sheet) or 55-65 minutes (in loaf pan). About 10 minutes before the end, spread the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan. Continue baking until internal temperature reaches 165°F and cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5-10 more minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest, covered loosely with foil, for at least 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 18g

Notes

For maximum moisture, use heavy cream instead of milk. Toast dried herbs for more flavor. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in oven at 300°F for 15-20 minutes with moisture added.
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