Delicious Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Favorite

When I think of comfort food, meatloaf always comes to mind. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, and my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes that classic idea and gives it a delightful twist.

By swapping out traditional beef for lean chicken and adding a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this recipe not only lightens things up but also amps up the flavor.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s simple to prepare and packed with savory goodness that everyone will love.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! Let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy take on a timeless favorite.

Ingredient List

For this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, I make sure to gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup ketchup for topping

This combination of ingredients provides a wonderful balance of flavors while keeping the meatloaf moist and tender.

Now that I’ve got everything ready, I can move on to the next steps of the recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfect baking temperature for the meatloaf.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step prevents the meatloaf from sticking.
3. Mix the Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 small onion finely diced, ½ cup of milk, 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
4. Shape the Meatloaf
   Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press the mixture tightly into the pan to maintain its shape. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Add the Topping
   Spread ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and moisture during baking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf
   Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer helps ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
7. Rest the Meatloaf
   Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, I enjoy experimenting with different additions and tips to elevate the flavor and texture.

Ingredient Swaps

• Ground Chicken: You can substitute ground turkey for an equally lean option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.
• Breadcrumbs: Try using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.

Adding Vegetables

I love incorporating vegetables into my meatloaf for more nutrients and moisture. Here are some great options:

• Shredded Carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
• Finely Chopped Spinach: Provides a nutrient boost and pairs well with the chicken.
• Bell Peppers: Adds a slight crunch and sweetness.

Seasoning Adjustments

Feel free to customize the seasoning based on your taste.

• Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme makes a delightful addition.
• Spices: Paprika or smoked paprika can impart a unique flavor profile.

Basting Options

For a twist on the classic ketchup topping, consider basting with:

• BBQ Sauce: For a smoky-sweet flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Provides an Italian flair.

Making Mini Meatloafs

If you’re pressed for time or want to serve individual portions, I recommend shaping the meatloaf into mini loaves or meatballs.

• Baking Time: Reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes for mini loaves or 15-20 minutes for meatballs.

Leftovers and Storage

The meatloaf keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the meatloaf with parchment paper between the slices to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

For serving my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, I love to pair it with some delicious sides that complement its flavors and provide a well-rounded meal. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy and buttery garlic mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The richness of the potatoes balances the savory meatloaf perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   I often toss in a colorful medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. The caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and adds a vibrant touch to the plate.
3. Fresh Green Salad
   A light and crisp green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal. I like to include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and perhaps a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
4. Bread Rolls
   Soft bread rolls are perfect for mopping up the juices from the meatloaf. Whether homemade or store-bought, they provide a delightful texture contrast.
5. Sauces
   I enjoy serving my meatloaf with a side of marinara or a tangy BBQ sauce for dipping. This enhances the flavors and gives everyone the option to add an extra kick.
6. Mashed Cauliflower
   For a lighter alternative, creamy mashed cauliflower works wonderfully. It’s a low-carb option that still offers a comforting, creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Here is the nutritional breakdown for my Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe per serving, assuming the recipe serves six.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	25g
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	80mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	2g
Sodium	450mg
Vitamin A	10% Daily Value
Vitamin C	5% Daily Value
Calcium	15% Daily Value
Iron	8% Daily Value

This meatloaf is not only delicious but also provides a good amount of protein thanks to the lean ground chicken and the Parmesan cheese.

The use of fresh herbs and vegetables adds to the overall nutritional value, making it a wholesome option for a family meal.

Plus, by customizing the recipe with additional veggies or alternative seasonings, I can easily adjust the nutrition profile to better suit my dietary needs or preferences.

Conclusion

I really hope you give this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf a try. It’s such a delightful twist on a classic dish and perfect for any night of the week.

With its blend of flavors and the option to add your favorite veggies it’s a recipe that can easily adapt to your family’s tastes.

Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad it’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Plus the leftovers are just as tasty making it a win-win for busy days ahead. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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