Hello and welcome! Today, I’m excited to share a comforting and delicious recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. These mini meatloaves are packed with flavor, easy to make, and a healthier twist on the classic meatloaf. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details!
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves offer a delightful twist on the traditional meatloaf, swapping ground beef for chicken, and infusing the dish with savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese. Originating as a simple and affordable family meal, meatloaf has evolved into a versatile dish that can be adapted to various tastes and diets. This version keeps things light but flavorful, combining tender chicken with the sharpness of Parmesan and the aromatic presence of garlic.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish or something easy to prep for the week ahead, these chicken meatloaves fit the bill. They’re not only delicious but also easy to freeze, making meal planning a breeze. In this recipe, we’ll go over every step, including tips and tricks to ensure that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting 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)
This recipe is quite versatile, and you can make substitutions based on dietary preferences or what you have in your pantry. For instance, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for those avoiding gluten, and dairy-free cheese alternatives can make this dish suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by preheating your oven to ensure it’s ready when your meatloaves are formed.
- Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add milk. Pour in the milk and mix again. This step ensures the meatloaves stay moist and tender.
- Shape the meatloaves. Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape them into mini loaves. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with olive oil. Drizzle olive oil over the loaves for added moisture and flavor.
- Bake the meatloaves. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, add mozzarella cheese during the last five minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Rest and serve. Once done, remove from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their moisture and flavor.
Enjoy your freshly made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves!
Helpful Tips
To make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves even better, consider these handy tips:
- Ground chicken can sometimes be a bit dry compared to ground beef, so don’t skip the milk and olive oil—they’re key to keeping the meatloaves moist.
- Chop your garlic finely or use a garlic press to avoid large chunks that could overpower the dish.
- If you’re short on time, make the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Cooking Tips
For the best results, follow these additional cooking tips:
- Use a food processor to finely chop the parsley and garlic, saving you time and ensuring even distribution of flavor.
- Let the meatloaves rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Cutting into them too soon may cause them to lose moisture.
- If you like a crispy crust, broil the meatloaves for the last two minutes of baking, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves pair perfectly with a variety of sides:
- Serve them with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort food meal.
- For a lighter option, try pairing them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 5% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
These meatloaves are high in protein and calcium thanks to the chicken and Parmesan. Garlic also offers many health benefits, such as boosting the immune system.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheat: To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through.
Leftovers can be used creatively—chop them up for sandwiches or salads, or crumble them into pasta for an easy dinner the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a slightly leaner option.
- Can I freeze these meatloaves? Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap each meatloaf in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? You can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Related Recipes
Explore these similar recipes from the Optimal Recipes site for more delicious ideas:
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves as much as I do! They’re a fantastic addition to any meal plan, combining wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how your meatloaves turned out. Feel free to experiment with your own variations—cooking is all about making it your own!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves | Easy Recipe
Description
Hello and welcome! Today, I’m excited to share a comforting and delicious recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. These mini meatloaves are packed with flavor, easy to make, and a healthier twist on the classic meatloaf. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details!
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 oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by preheating your oven to ensure it’s ready when your meatloaves are formed.
- Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add milk. Pour in the milk and mix again. This step ensures the meatloaves stay moist and tender.
- Shape the meatloaves. Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape them into mini loaves. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with olive oil. Drizzle olive oil over the loaves for added moisture and flavor.
- Bake the meatloaves. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, add mozzarella cheese during the last five minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Rest and serve. Once done, remove from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their moisture and flavor.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Ground chicken can sometimes be a bit dry compared to ground beef, so don’t skip the milk and olive oil—they’re key to keeping the meatloaves moist.
- Chop your garlic finely or use a garlic press to avoid large chunks that could overpower the dish.
- If you’re short on time, make the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
