Save These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are tender mini loaves packed with juicy chicken, punchy garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I reach for this recipe whenever I need something cozy yet lighter than traditional beef meatloaf, with plenty of savory character and a hint of golden cheese on top.
When I first made these, I was surprised how quickly they disappeared. They have become a secret weapon for those nights when I want comfort food without the heaviness.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: provides a juicy base and is lighter than beef always choose higher fat chicken if possible for moisture
- Grated Parmesan cheese: gives the meatloaf its signature depth buy fresh Parm for best bold flavor
- Breadcrumbs: hold everything together and keep the loaf perfectly tender opt for coarse fresh breadcrumbs if you have them
- Fresh parsley: adds color and a clean herby freshness flat leaf is most flavorful
- Garlic cloves: boost the savoriness choose firm heavy bulbs and mince them yourself
- Large egg: ensures the loaves keep their shape plus extra richness select eggs with rich golden yolks
- Dried oregano: brings a whiff of classic Italian comfort check for fresh aroma in your jar
- Fine sea salt: seasons each bite evenly without harshness try using flaky sea salt for cleaner taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: lifts up all the flavors grind it just before adding
- Whole milk: adds extra moisture use whole for best richness but other milk will work in a pinch
- Extra virgin olive oil: drizzling over the loaves creates golden tops use a robust fruity oil for extra flavor
- Grated mozzarella cheese: optional but brings gooeyness and a touch of stretchiness select real mozzarella over pre shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by setting your oven to 190 degrees Celsius or 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and encourages even browning on the bottom.
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use a light touch to stir gently with a fork or your hands so the mixture stays airy and light.
- Incorporate Milk:
- Pour the milk into the bowl with all other ingredients. Gently mix everything until just combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but uniform without visible streaks or clumps.
- Shape the Mini Loaves:
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions. With damp hands, gently form each portion into a compact oval loaf. Make sure each loaf is about the same size so they cook evenly. Place each one on your prepared baking sheet leaving space in between for air circulation.
- Drizzle and Top:
- Drizzle each mini loaf with a bit of olive oil. If you like, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tops for meltiness and extra flavor. The oil promotes browning while the cheese forms a soft golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the tray in your preheated oven. Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the loaves are deeply golden and an instant read thermometer registers seventy four degrees Celsius right in the center. The tops should be bubbling and lightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the loaves from the oven and let them rest for five minutes on the baking tray. This keeps juices inside and ensures they slice cleanly when you serve.
Save Parmesan might just be my favorite ingredient in these loaves. Its nutty flavor really shines next to the juicy chicken. The first time I made these for a family Sunday dinner, my cousin literally asked if she could take leftovers home.
Storage Tips
Let the meatloaves cool to room temperature before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in a gentle oven to maintain moisture. Meatloaves freeze beautifully. Wrap each loaf in foil and stash in a ziptop bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap ground turkey if you do not have chicken just increase the olive oil drizzle for more moisture. No fresh parsley available Use half the amount of dried parsley flakes for herby flavor. Lactose intolerant Try a splash of unsweetened oat milk in place of whole milk and leave off the mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mini loaves with creamy mashed potatoes or parmesan roasted broccoli for a hearty dinner. Slice leftovers for lunchtime sandwiches with crisp lettuce and a swipe of Dijon. For a lighter meal, serve with garlicky sautéed greens or a lemony arugula salad.
Save These chicken meatloaves strike the perfect balance between comfort and ease. Try them the next time you want a cozy homemade meal in under thirty minutes.
Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep chicken meatloaves moist?
Adding milk and breadcrumbs to the mixture provides moisture, while avoiding overmixing ensures a tender texture. Resting after baking helps juices redistribute.
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can replace chicken and will yield a similar texture and flavor profile with the same ingredients and instructions.
- → What cheese pairs well with garlic chicken meatloaf?
Parmesan enhances flavor and depth, while mozzarella adds melty richness. Other mild cheeses like provolone are also suitable.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
Fresh parsley gives vibrant flavor, but dried parsley can work in a pinch. Adjust quantity as dried herbs are more potent.
- → How do you shape mini meatloaves evenly?
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each into a compact log or oval. A kitchen scale can help with consistency.