This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic dish. It combines juicy chicken with garlic and rich Parmesan cheese for a flavor burst!
It’s so easy to make, even I can manage it after a busy day! Pair it with some veggies and you have a tasty dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish. You can also use turkey or lean beef if you prefer. Ground chicken is usually lighter, but beef gives a richer flavor. Adjust cooking times if you choose a different meat.
Breadcrumbs: I suggest panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy hint.
Cream Cheese: This gives the meatloaf a creamy texture. Softened cream cheese is essential for easy mixing. If you want a lighter option, you can swap it with cottage cheese or pureed silken tofu.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess and tang to the topping. If you have neither, mayo can do the trick! But keep it light, since that might be richer than desired.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Is Tender?
To ensure your meatloaf stays tender, mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make it tough. Also, checking the doneness with a meat thermometer is smart. Cook it to 165°F (74°C) so it’s fully done without being dry.
- Stay gentle when mixing; think of folding ingredients together.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the juices redistribute.
- Consider adding a little moisture, like chopped vegetables or even a splash of chicken broth, for extra tenderness.
This meatloaf is all about balancing flavors and moisture, so don’t worry—stick to these tips, and you’ll have a winner!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Topping:
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (additional for the topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a bit of time mixing the ingredients and then let the oven do the hard work! After cooking, remember to let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing so it stays juicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Gently mix everything together until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as that can make your meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Place it in the prepared loaf pan or on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. Make sure it’s cooking nicely while you make the creamy topping!
5. Prepare the Creamy Topping:
While the meatloaf is baking, make the creamy garlic Parmesan topping. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté them until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Mix the Creamy Topping:
Stir in the softened cream cheese and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until they melt and become smooth. Then, add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until everything is well combined. Keep this warm on low heat until the meatloaf is ready!
7. Add the Topping:
After 40 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and gently spread the creamy topping over the top.
8. Finishing Touch:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake it for an additional 10 minutes. You want to make sure it is cooked through and the topping is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Slice and Serve:
Once it’s done, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Then, slice it up and serve warm. You can sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for a pop of color!
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Parmesan chicken meatloaf with your favorite sides! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It will have a slightly different flavor but will still work well in this recipe. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time as turkey can tend to dry out if overcooked.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular plain breadcrumbs will work just fine. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats; they will still help bind the meatloaf together.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating will help keep it moist!
