Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a family favorite in my home. They combine the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan with fresh herbs, creating delightful mini loaves that are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe never fails to impress!

Not only are these meatloaves easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that everyone will love. Plus, they’re versatile enough for meal prep or a quick dinner solution. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these meatloaves in the oven and your kitchen smelling amazing.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatloaf! These mini versions are fun to eat and perfect for little hands.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store them for busy nights. They reheat beautifully!
• Flavorful & Savory: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating those tasty meatloaves! Here’s what you need:

For the Meatloaf Mixture

• 450 grams ground chicken
• 60 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 60 grams breadcrumbs
• 15 grams fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 60 millilitres whole milk

For Baking

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 25 grams grated mozzarella cheese (optional)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini into the mixture for added nutrition and moisture.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to give your meatloaves a unique twist.
• Cheesy goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese or top with your favorite melting cheese before baking for extra creaminess.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This step is crucial because it ensures your meatloaves cook evenly and develop that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mixing thoroughly allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Milk

Gently add the milk to the mixture and mix until everything is uniform. The milk adds moisture to keep your meatloaves tender—no one wants dry meatloaf!

Step 4: Shape the Loaves

Divide the mixture evenly and shape it into four compact mini loaves. Place each loaf on your lined baking sheet with some space between them. This helps them cook evenly without steaming each other.

Step 5: Add Olive Oil & Cheese

Drizzle each loaf with olive oil—this adds flavor and helps with browning. If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), sprinkle mozzarella over the tops before baking.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Let them rest for about five minutes after removing from the oven; this makes them easier to slice and serve.

Enjoy these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves hot out of the oven—they’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Making these meatloaves is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve the best results!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor profile and make your meatloaves bursting with savory goodness.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense meatloaves, while a gentle touch keeps them tender and juicy.
• Shape uniform loaves: To ensure even cooking, make sure your mini loaves are roughly the same size. This helps them bake uniformly and gives an appealing presentation.
• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F), ensuring your chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry.
• Rest before serving: Letting the meatloaves rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute. This step enhances flavor and moisture in each bite!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

This dish not only pleases the palate but also looks fantastic on a dinner table! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon zest: A light dusting of lemon zest introduces a refreshing citrus note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots with olive oil and herbs, then roast them until tender. These provide a colorful, nutritious pairing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic create a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the meatloaf.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and texture to your meal.
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil offer a crisp contrast to the richness of the meatloaves.

With these suggestions in mind, you’re ready to impress at your next family dinner or gathering! Enjoy every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatloaves to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each mini loaf tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves:

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times if needed.

How can I customize Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the mix! Chopped bell peppers or spinach can be great additions.

Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves healthy?

These mini meatloaves are packed with protein and nutrients from fresh herbs, making them a healthy option for dinner or meal prep.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves as much as I do! They’re not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile for any night of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking to impress at dinner, these mini loaves are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences!