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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Cheesy Family Favorite!

Discover this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, a comforting fusion of classic meatloaf and chicken parmesan, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 500 g Ground Chicken A lean protein that keeps the meatloaf moist and light compared to traditional beef.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds richness and helps in cooking aromatics; feel free to substitute with your favorite cooking oil.
  • 80 g Onion, finely diced Enhances flavor and moisture; shallots or leeks can be used instead.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth; if needed, garlic powder is a good substitute.
  • 60 g Seasoned Breadcrumbs Acts as a binding agent and texture enhancer; consider using plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs as a replacement.
  • 2 teaspoons Milk Adds moisture to prevent dryness; plant-based options like almond or oat milk are great alternatives.
  • 30 g Parmesan Cheese, grated Imparts savory flavor and moisture; pecorino or nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan version.
  • 1 Egg Binds the mixture together; a flax egg is an excellent vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped Provides a burst of freshness and color; feel free to swap in cilantro or basil.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Adds a blend of herbs for depth; mix in dried oregano and thyme if preferred.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your taste.
For the Cheesy Center and Topping
  • 3 Mozzarella Cheese Strings, cut into 1cm slices Creates a delicious gooey center; regular mozzarella or vegan cheese works well as substitutes.
  • 120 ml Marinara Sauce Topping that adds tangy flavor; homemade tomato sauce can also be used effectively.
  • 2 tablespoons Panko Breadcrumbs Creates a crunchy topping; regular breadcrumbs are fine but won’t yield the same crispiness.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter, melted Helps brown the topping; olive oil can substitute for a dairy-free option.
  • 120 g Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Adds an irresistible cheesy finish; swap in pepper jack for an added kick!

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and lightly spraying with cooking spray.
  2. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool completely before adding it to the meatloaf.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled onion and garlic mixture with ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, and milk. Add grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently.
  5. On the prepared baking sheet, spread two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle about one inch thick, and add sliced mozzarella cheese in the center before topping with the remaining meat mixture.
  6. Spread marinara sauce over the top of the formed meatloaf. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
  7. Prepare the crunchy topping by mixing together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and remaining parsley.
  8. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
  9. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Follow the tips for a perfect meatloaf, including cooling aromatics and not overmixing the mixture.

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