Description

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a savory, cheesy twist on a classic comfort dish. Ground chicken is combined with aromatic onions, garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, then baked to perfection with a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this meatloaf offers a moist texture with a deliciously cheesy center and golden melted mozzarella topping.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
⅓ cup finely diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds ground chicken
½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
2 teaspoons milk
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
3 mozzarella cheese strings, cut into ½ inch slices
½ cup marinara sauce

Topping

2 tablespoons Panko bread crumbs
1 ½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Allow this mixture to cool completely before adding to the meat mixture to avoid cooking the meat prematurely.
Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooked onion and garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently just until everything is evenly incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
Shape and Assemble Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and press it into an 8-inch by 4-inch loaf shape. Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese strings evenly over the top of the meatloaf, then spoon the marinara sauce evenly on top of the cheese layer.
First Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This initial baking will cook the chicken through and meld the flavors.
Prepare Topping: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This mixture will add a crunchy and flavorful topping.
Add Cheese and Bread Crumb Topping, Then Final Bake: Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps retain juices and makes slicing easier and neater. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Ensure the onions and garlic are completely cooled before mixing with the raw chicken to prevent premature cooking and avoid a tough texture.
Using ground chicken makes this meatloaf leaner but be careful not to overmix to keep it moist and tender.
Check the meatloaf’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for food safety.
Feel free to swap fresh parsley with dried, adjusting quantity to 1 teaspoon if needed.
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American