Welcome to our recipe corner! If you’re craving a delicious, easy-to-make, and family-friendly meal, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. This dish combines the savory flavor of garlic with the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese, making it an instant hit. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy all cravings!
Introduction
Let’s talk about the beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. These individual loaves are packed with flavor, combining the juiciness of chicken with the nutty, savory taste of Parmesan. Unlike traditional beef meatloaf, this version is lighter, thanks to ground chicken, but just as satisfying. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, this dish will not disappoint.
Garlic and Parmesan are a classic pairing in Italian cuisine, and their use in this meatloaf gives it a comforting, homestyle feel. I remember making this for the first time and being amazed by how something so simple could be so flavorful. It’s now a staple in my house, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
Feel free to make adjustments based on dietary needs! You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or opt for dairy-free cheese to suit your preferences.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves:
- Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when your meatloaves are prepped.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the milk: Pour the milk into the mixture and stir until everything is moist and evenly mixed.
- Shape the loaves: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf. These individual servings are perfect for portion control and speed up the cooking process compared to a large meatloaf.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil to help them develop a golden crust as they bake.
- Bake: Pop the meatloaves into the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked.
- Optional cheesy topping: If you want an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle the grated mozzarella on top of each loaf during the last five minutes of baking.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, avoid overworking the mixture as it can make the meatloaf tough. Gently mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Even shaping: To ensure all the loaves cook evenly, try to shape them into equal sizes. You can even use a kitchen scale if you want to be precise!
Cooking Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves:
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give the meatloaves a stronger, more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic from a jar.
- Breadcrumbs variation: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs can work as substitutes.
- Meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This ensures your chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
Serving Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider pairing these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves with:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes is a perfect complement to the savory meatloaves.
- Roasted vegetables: Try roasted carrots, zucchini, or broccoli for a colorful and healthy side.
- Pasta: A simple pasta with olive oil, garlic, and herbs can round out the meal beautifully.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a light beer would pair wonderfully with this dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a breakdown of the Nutritional Information for this recipe:
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 10%
The high protein content makes this dish filling and satisfying, while the use of ground chicken keeps it lower in fat compared to traditional beef meatloaf.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: You can store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat: When reheating, simply place the meatloaves in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but this might result in a slightly drier texture.
Creative use of leftovers: Leftover meatloaf makes a great sandwich! Slice the meatloaf and serve it between slices of crusty bread with a smear of garlic mayo and some fresh lettuce for a quick and delicious lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to use a similar fat percentage to keep the meatloaves moist.
Can I freeze the meatloaves?
Absolutely! These meatloaves freeze well. After cooking and cooling them, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
What can I use if I’m out of breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even rolled oats. Just be mindful of the texture these alternatives may bring.
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Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves as much as I do! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make the recipe your own—whether you add extra cheese, swap out ingredients, or serve it with your favorite sides.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Let me know in the comments below or share your experience on social media. Happy cooking!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves – Easy Dinner Recipe
Description
Welcome to our recipe corner! If you’re craving a delicious, easy-to-make, and family-friendly meal, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. This dish combines the savory flavor of garlic with the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese, making it an instant hit. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy all cravings!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when your meatloaves are prepped.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the milk: Pour the milk into the mixture and stir until everything is moist and evenly mixed.
- Shape the loaves: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a small loaf. These individual servings are perfect for portion control and speed up the cooking process compared to a large meatloaf.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil to help them develop a golden crust as they bake.
- Bake: Pop the meatloaves into the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked.
- Optional cheesy topping: If you want an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle the grated mozzarella on top of each loaf during the last five minutes of baking.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, avoid overworking the mixture as it can make the meatloaf tough. Gently mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Even shaping: To ensure all the loaves cook evenly, try to shape them into equal sizes. You can even use a kitchen scale if you want to be precise!
