Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a revelation! Prepare to rediscover a beloved comfort food, reimagined with an explosion of vibrant flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning palates. I’ve always cherished the idea of meatloaf – a quintessential symbol of home cooking and hearty family meals, evolving from its humble beginnings to become a canvas for culinary creativity across cultures.
What makes this particular dish so irresistibly popular? It’s the perfect harmony of robust garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and incredibly tender ground chicken, all expertly combined to deliver an unbelievably moist and flavorful result. Forget dry, crumbly meatloaf! Every bite of this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf promises a succulent experience, rich with aromatic herbs and a delightful cheesy undertone. It’s comforting, deeply satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a comforting family dinner or a delightful meal prep option. Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe rotation; this one truly is a game-changer.
Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re embarking on a culinary adventure to create a truly spectacular dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite: my Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a tender, savory masterpiece, packed with aromatic garlic and sharp Parmesan cheese, all brought together in a way that keeps the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful. Forget dry, bland meatloaf – this recipe will change your perception entirely. Get ready to experience a comforting, yet elegant, meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds (approximately 680g) ground chicken (I recommend using 92-93% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (these are crucial for a lighter texture and absorbency)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is always superior for flavor)
- ¼ cup finely minced red onion (or yellow onion, if that’s what you have on hand)
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon pre-minced, but fresh is best!)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (a binder to hold everything together)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for freshness and a pop of color)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a layer of umami depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (a fragrant blend of herbs)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, but this is a good starting point)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, for the best aroma)
- 2 tablespoons milk (any kind – dairy or non-dairy – helps keep it moist)
- For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup (the classic base for a meatloaf glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed, for sweetness and a lovely caramelization)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (cuts through the richness and adds tang)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle complexity and zest)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (to echo the garlic in the meatloaf and boost flavor)
Equipment You’ll Need:
Having the right tools on hand always makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. For our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you won’t need anything too specialized, just common kitchen items:
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the meatloaf ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch or similar): This is key for shaping our meatloaf. A standard metal loaf pan works perfectly, but a ceramic or glass one will also do the job beautifully.
- Small bowl: For whisking together the delightful glaze.
- Whisk or fork: To ensure your glaze ingredients are perfectly combined.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is important for consistent results, especially when it comes to flavor and texture.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For finely mincing your onion, garlic, and parsley. Good knife skills definitely come in handy here!
- Spatula or spoon: For transferring the meatloaf mixture into the pan and for spreading the glaze.
- Meat thermometer: While not strictly mandatory, I highly recommend using one to ensure your chicken meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) without overcooking and drying it out. This is your secret weapon for a truly juicy result!
- Aluminum foil: Handy for tenting the meatloaf during baking to prevent the top from browning too quickly, and for covering it while resting.
Prepping the Ingredients:
Before we dive into mixing, a little bit of prep work goes a long way to ensure everything comes together seamlessly. This is where we lay the foundation for our incredible Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Getting all your ingredients ready, often called “mise en place,” makes the actual assembly much faster and more enjoyable.
- Prepare the Aromatics:
First things first, let’s get those amazing aromas going. Take your red onion and finely mince it. We want it in very small pieces so it blends seamlessly into the meatloaf without any large, crunchy bits. Aim for about ¼ cup. Next, turn your attention to the garlic cloves. Mince these as finely as possible, almost to a paste. The goal is to distribute that potent garlic flavor evenly throughout the entire meatloaf. I like to use a garlic press for speed, but a good old-fashioned knife and some patient mincing work perfectly.
- Chop the Herbs:
Grab your fresh parsley and give it a good rinse and pat dry. Finely chop it until you have about 2 tablespoons. Fresh parsley adds a wonderful bright, herbaceous note and a lovely fleck of green to the finished dish. Don’t skip this step if you can help it!
- Grate the Cheese:
While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, I always advocate for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts better and has a far superior flavor profile. Using the small holes on a box grater or a microplane, grate about ½ cup of Parmesan. The difference in taste and texture will be noticeable in your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- Measure Everything Else:
Get all your remaining meatloaf ingredients measured out and ready to go: your panko breadcrumbs, the lightly beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Having everything portioned out will make the mixing step incredibly smooth and prevent you from forgetting anything important.
Crafting the Flavorful Meatloaf Mixture:
Now comes the fun part where we bring all these wonderful flavors together! This step is crucial for ensuring your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf has the perfect texture and every bite is packed with deliciousness. Remember to be gentle – overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Aromatics:
In your large mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely minced red onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to give these a good preliminary mix. This helps distribute the seasonings and aromatics evenly before the chicken is added.
- Add Wet Binders:
Next, pour in the lightly beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and milk. Give these a gentle stir with the other ingredients. The milk and egg are key binders, but also contribute to the moisture content of our meatloaf.
- Introduce the Ground Chicken:
Now, add the ground chicken to the bowl. This is where you really get your hands in there! Using your clean hands, gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. The goal is to combine everything until it’s just incorporated. Do not overmix! Overmixing develops the proteins in the chicken, leading to a denser, tougher meatloaf. Mix just until you no longer see pockets of unmixed ingredients. It should feel uniform and slightly tacky.
A little trick I use: If you’re unsure if your mixture is seasoned enough, you can take a small, coin-sized piece of the mixture, flatten it into a mini patty, and pan-fry it for a minute or two until cooked through. Taste it, and adjust the salt or pepper in your main mixture if needed. This ensures your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is perfectly seasoned to your liking!
Forming and Baking Your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
The shaping and initial baking are critical phases for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust and ensuring the meatloaf cooks through perfectly. Preheat your oven and let’s get this deliciousness into the heat!
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking meatloaf, allowing it to cook thoroughly without drying out too quickly, and helping to create a nice exterior.
- Prepare the Loaf Pan:
Lightly grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan. You can use cooking spray or a thin layer of oil spread with a paper towel. This step helps prevent the meatloaf from sticking and makes for easier removal later on.
- Form the Meatloaf:
Transfer the chicken meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Using your hands or a spatula, gently press the mixture evenly into the pan, making sure there are no large air pockets. Then, shape the top into a slight dome or a rounded loaf. This traditional meatloaf shape helps with even cooking and gives it that classic appearance. Don’t pack it in too tightly, as this can also lead to a dense texture. Just a gentle, firm press is all you need.
- Initial Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. During this initial baking period, the meatloaf will start to cook through, firm up, and develop a light golden crust. We’re not adding the glaze just yet; we want the meatloaf to have a good head start on cooking before that sweet and tangy layer goes on.
While your meatloaf is baking, this is the perfect time to prepare the glaze, ensuring it’s ready to go when the meatloaf comes out for its first check. The aroma that will start filling your kitchen during this stage is simply incredible, a testament to the flavorful journey of our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
Preparing the Irresistible Glaze:
A truly great meatloaf isn’t complete without a perfectly balanced, flavorful glaze. Our glaze for this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf strikes just the right note of sweet, tangy, and savory, complementing the chicken beautifully. It’s incredibly simple to make, and you can whip it up while the meatloaf is on its initial bake.
- Gather Glaze Ingredients:
In a small bowl, measure out all the glaze ingredients: ketchup, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Having them all ready in one place makes the next step quick and easy.
- Whisk to Combine:
Using a whisk or a fork, vigorously mix all the glaze ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. You want the brown sugar to dissolve as much as possible, creating a uniform, slightly thick sauce. Give it a taste if you like; you can always adjust the sweetness or tanginess slightly at this stage. Sometimes I add a tiny pinch more garlic powder if I’m feeling extra garlicky!
Set this amazing glaze aside. It will be ready and waiting to elevate our meatloaf to its peak deliciousness. This glaze isn’t just for flavor; it also helps to lock in moisture and create a beautiful, caramelized exterior on our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
Glazing and Finishing Touches:
This is where our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf gets its signature glossy, flavorful finish! The glaze not only adds incredible taste but also helps to keep the chicken moist and creates a beautiful crust. Timing is everything here.
- Apply the First Layer of Glaze:
After the initial 35-40 minutes of baking, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. At this point, it should be partially cooked and starting to firm up. Pour about two-thirds of your prepared glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface. We want a good, thick layer of that sweet and tangy goodness!
- Return to Oven and Continue Baking:
Place the glazed meatloaf back into the oven. Continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes. During this period, the glaze will begin to caramelize and thicken, forming a beautiful, irresistible crust. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t get too dark too quickly. If you notice it browning too much, you can lightly tent the meatloaf with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes or so.
- Check for Doneness:
The most accurate way to check for doneness in any meatloaf, especially chicken, is with a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue baking in 5-minute increments until it does. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked without being dry.
Once it hits that magical 165°F, your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is officially ready to come out of the oven for its crucial resting period!
Resting and Serving Your Masterpiece:
The resting period is perhaps the most underrated, yet vital, step in ensuring your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is truly juicy and tender. Do not skip this!
- Rest the Meatloaf:
Once your meatloaf has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven. Here’s the critical part: let it rest in the loaf pan for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to slice it. You can loosely tent it with aluminum foil during this time to keep it warm. This resting period allows the juices, which have migrated to the center during baking, to redistribute evenly throughout the entire meatloaf. If you slice it too soon, all those delicious juices will run out, leaving you with a drier meatloaf. Patience truly pays off here!
- Remove from Pan and Slice:
After resting, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the pan. You might find it easiest to run a knife around the edges first, then invert the pan onto a cutting board, or use a couple of spatulas to gently lift it out. Place it on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the meatloaf into thick, generous slices, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. The aroma as you slice will be absolutely heavenly!
- Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the slices of your magnificent Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf to individual plates. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the bowl, or from the bottom of the loaf pan, over the slices for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation. This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad. Get ready to impress everyone at the table with this flavorful and incredibly moist chicken meatloaf!
Tips for the Best Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
To truly elevate your meatloaf game and ensure every bite of this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is absolutely perfect, here are a few extra tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way:
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Choose the Right Ground Chicken:
The type of ground chicken you use makes a difference. I highly recommend using ground chicken that is 92-93% lean. This percentage provides just enough fat to keep the meatloaf incredibly moist and flavorful without making it greasy. Super lean ground chicken (99% fat-free) can result in a drier meatloaf, so try to avoid it for this recipe if possible.
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Don’t Overmix the Meat:
This is a golden rule for any ground meat dish, and it’s especially important for chicken meatloaf. Overmixing develops the proteins in the meat, leading to a tough, dense, and less “juicy” texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and you no longer see streaks of unmixed seasoning. Use a gentle hand!
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Fresh Ingredients Matter:
While dried herbs and spices are convenient, using fresh minced garlic, fresh minced onion, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a significant impact on the overall flavor of your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Fresh ingredients simply pack a more vibrant and aromatic punch.
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The Panko Difference:
Panko breadcrumbs are not just any breadcrumbs. Their larger, flakier texture absorbs moisture beautifully and creates a much lighter, more tender meatloaf compared to traditional fine breadcrumbs. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, you can use them, but the texture might be slightly denser.
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Preventing a Greasy Meatloaf:
If you’re concerned about excess grease, especially if your ground chicken is a bit higher in fat, you can place a few slices of bread underneath the meatloaf in the pan (under a small wire rack if you have one that fits) to absorb some of the drippings. Alternatively, after the initial bake, you can carefully drain any accumulated fat from the pan before applying the glaze. This keeps the bottom of the meatloaf from getting soggy.
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Loosely Tent if Browning Too Quickly:
If you notice the top of your meatloaf or the glaze is browning too quickly during the second half of baking, simply create a loose foil tent over the loaf pan. This will prevent further browning while still allowing the meatloaf to cook through perfectly.
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Make Ahead and Storage:
You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Form it in the loaf pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time. Leftovers of this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf are fantastic! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully: slice the cooled meatloaf, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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Serving Suggestions:
This meatloaf is incredibly versatile. Beyond the classic mashed potatoes, consider serving it with roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, a creamy polenta, or even a side of buttered noodles. For a lighter meal, a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the meatloaf. The possibilities are endless for creating a complete and satisfying meal around your delicious chicken meatloaf.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the simple steps to create what I truly believe will become a new staple in your kitchen. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a revolution in comfort food, reimagined with lighter, incredibly flavorful ingredients. What makes this particular recipe an absolute standout, a dish you simply have to try, is its incredible balance of flavor and texture. Forget everything you thought you knew about dry, uninspiring meatloaf. We’ve crafted something truly special here, a culinary triumph that will utterly transform your perception of this classic dish. The combination of succulent ground chicken, generously infused with rich, savory Parmesan, and abundant aromatic garlic creates a symphony on the palate that’s both wonderfully familiar and excitingly fresh. It’s light yet incredibly satisfying, proving conclusively that chicken can indeed be the star of a hearty, comforting main course. I promise you, once you take that first glorious bite of this amazing Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic about it. It’s absolutely perfect for a relaxed weeknight family dinner, yet undeniably elegant and impressive enough to serve to guests at your next gathering or special occasion. It’s remarkably easy to prepare, relying on common pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand, but delivers a gourmet experience that delightfully belies its simplicity and minimal effort. This recipe is a testament to the fact that wholesome, deeply delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated, difficult, or time-consuming. It’s destined to become one of those cherished go-to meals you’ll return to again and again, especially when you’re craving something deeply flavorful, immensely comforting, but still surprisingly wholesome and nourishing.
Now, while this magnificent meatloaf is a star on its own, shining brightly as the centerpiece of any meal, it truly reaches its full potential and truly shines when thoughtfully paired with the right accompaniments. For a classic, soul-satisfying, and unequivocally comforting meal, I absolutely love serving thick, generous slices alongside a mountain of creamy mashed potatoes – perhaps with a delightful hint of roasted garlic or fresh chives folded in for an extra layer of exquisite flavor. Freshly steamed green beans, tender-crisp asparagus, or vibrant broccoli florets tossed simply with a squeeze of bright lemon juice and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt make for a wonderful, colorful, and refreshing side that perfectly cuts through the richness of the meatloaf beautifully. If you’re leaning into a more Italian-inspired theme, which I often do with the Parmesan notes, consider serving it with a simple, fresh tomato bruschetta or a light, zesty pasta salad. Imagine a warm, hearty slice nestled beside a fluffy bed of aromatic rice pilaf, allowing it to soak up all those incredible, savory pan juices! The possibilities for pairing are truly endless and can be tailored to any mood or season.
Endless Serving Ideas and Creative Variations to Explore:
But please, don’t stop there; let your culinary imagination run wild and free with endless variations and exciting tweaks! For those who enjoy a delightful spicy kick, try adding a generous pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) directly to the meatloaf mixture before baking. If you’re a passionate fan of fresh herbs, fragrant fresh rosemary, tender thyme, or even a hint of savory sage would be absolutely delightful additions, offering a completely different and intriguing aromatic profile. You could also experiment boldly with different cheeses; a sharp provolone, a nutty Gruyère, or even a smoked gouda could introduce an exciting new dimension of flavor and texture. For a slightly lighter touch, you might consider using extra-lean ground turkey instead of chicken, though I personally find that the ground chicken really nails that succulent, moist texture we’re aiming for with this recipe. And seriously, don’t forget about the incredible versatility of leftovers! Cold slices of this amazing meatloaf make for an absolutely incredible sandwich filling the very next day, perhaps on a perfectly toasted ciabatta roll with a smear of vibrant pesto or a rich sun-dried tomato spread. Or, crumble any remaining meatloaf into a rich, simmering tomato sauce for a quick, flavorful, and incredibly hearty pasta dish that comes together in minutes. The possibilities are truly endless, transforming a simple, beloved meal into something endlessly adaptable and versatile for any occasion, craving, or culinary adventure.
I genuinely hope that you feel incredibly inspired and enthusiastic to give this amazing recipe a try very soon in your own kitchen. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a wonderful opportunity to bring warmth, incredible flavor, and pure joy to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate for a moment to dive in and create this culinary masterpiece in your own home. I promise you, with absolute certainty, that you won’t regret it. The profound joy of cooking comes not just from the exquisite act of eating, but also from the creative process of preparation and the cherished, shared moments around the table with loved ones. So, gather your high-quality ingredients, follow the clear and simple steps outlined, and prepare to utterly delight your taste buds and impress everyone you serve. Once you’ve made it, once you’ve experienced the sheer deliciousness, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear about your personal experience. Did you add a unique, creative twist? What were your absolute favorite sides to pair it with? How did your family react to this new favorite? Please share all your triumphs, your beautiful photos, and your invaluable feedback! Your insights, your tips, and your stories are incredibly valuable and help make our vibrant culinary community even richer and more inspiring.
Join the culinary conversation and tell us all about your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf adventure – I truly can’t wait to hear from you!
Your success and happiness in the kitchen are my greatest reward, and I can’t wait to see what wonderful, memorable meals you create.
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Rediscover a beloved comfort food, reimagined with an explosion of vibrant flavors! This incredibly moist and flavorful chicken meatloaf combines robust garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and tender ground chicken, all expertly seasoned for a deeply satisfying and surprisingly easy meal. Forget dry, crumbly meatloaf; every bite promises a succulent, aromatic experience.
Ingredients
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2 pounds ground chicken (or ground turkey or lean beef)
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1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (or Romano cheese)
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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2 large eggs
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4 cloves minced garlic
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup whole milk (or plant milk)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for glaze)
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1/4 cup additional Parmesan (for sprinkling)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. -
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add the lightly beaten eggs and milk. Mix gently. Then, add the ground chicken (or turkey/beef) and mix just until all ingredients are combined. Do not overmix to prevent a tough texture. -
Step 3
Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it evenly into the pan, shaping the top into a slight dome. Bake for 35-40 minutes. -
Step 4
Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and brush it evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If the top browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil. -
Step 5
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the loaf pan for at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist meatloaf. Carefully lift the meatloaf onto a cutting board, slice into thick pieces, and serve. Garnish with 1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons fresh parsley.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
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