Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re in search of a comforting and delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place. Our Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Introduction
In this recipe, we’re bringing a classic comfort food to a new level by adding a rich Parmesan and mozzarella topping. Chicken meatloaf is a lighter alternative to the traditional beef version, yet it doesn’t skimp on flavor. The addition of Italian seasonings, Parmesan cheese, and a gooey mozzarella crust makes this dish truly special.
As a child, meatloaf was one of those meals that brought everyone to the dinner table. With this twist on the traditional recipe, you can enjoy those nostalgic flavors with an elevated touch. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests, this meatloaf is bound to be a hit.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust, you’ll need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 mozzarella cheese strings, cut into ½-inch slices
Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp panko bread crumbs
- 1 ½ tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a loaf pan with foil and lightly grease it using cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft. Let cool.
- In a bowl, mix together the ground chicken, seasoned bread crumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and the cooled onion and garlic mixture. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an 8×4-inch loaf.
- Spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and chopped parsley.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips:
- When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- For a crispier crust, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
Helpful Tips
To ensure your Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and Parmesan will enhance the flavor of your meatloaf.
- Proper mixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Resting time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps retain its moisture and makes slicing easier.
Cooking Tips
Here are additional cooking tips to make your meatloaf even better:
- Flavor enhancements: For a more intense flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and consider adding some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture.
- Equipment suggestion: A meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through without overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
This Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a fresh contrast to the rich meatloaf.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is essential, and this Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust is no exception. Here’s a brief overview of its nutritional value:
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 520mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 700IU
- Vitamin C: 6mg
- Calcium: 250mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
This dish is rich in protein and provides a good amount of calcium, thanks to the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s also a relatively low-carb option, making it suitable for those following a lower carbohydrate diet.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, you can warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave until heated through. For best results, cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
Creative Leftover Ideas: Leftover meatloaf makes a fantastic sandwich filling. Simply place a slice between two pieces of crusty bread with a bit of extra marinara sauce and mozzarella, then grill it until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It will yield a similar texture and flavor.
What can I use as a substitute for bread crumbs?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. However, this may slightly change the texture of the meatloaf.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Related Recipes
Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? Check out these related recipes:
-
Savory Garlic Butter Chicken With Fresh Zucchini And Sweet Corn
-
Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight
These recipes are perfect for easy weeknight dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making this Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust as much as I do. It’s a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your feedback! Feel free to share your variations or tips in the comments below.
Happy cooking!
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Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re in search of a comforting and delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place. Our Golden-Baked Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Crust is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 mozzarella cheese strings, cut into ½-inch slices
Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp panko bread crumbs
- 1 ½ tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a loaf pan with foil and lightly grease it using cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft. Let cool.
- In a bowl, mix together the ground chicken, seasoned bread crumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and the cooled onion and garlic mixture. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an 8×4-inch loaf.
- Spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and chopped parsley.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips:
- When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- For a crispier crust, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
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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- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and Parmesan will enhance the flavor of your meatloaf.
- Proper mixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Resting time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps retain its moisture and makes slicing easier.
