Hello, foodies! Are you searching for an easy chicken dinner recipe that’s both delicious and family-friendly? You’re in luck! Today, we’re making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves—a quick family dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s a healthy chicken dinner with bold flavors of Parmesan and garlic, sure to become a weeknight favorite. Let’s get started!

Introduction: A Classic Chicken Dinner Recipe with Italian Flair

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe offers a delightful twist on classic meatloaf, combining juicy ground chicken with savory Parmesan and fresh garlic. It’s inspired by Italian flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that’s also high in protein and lighter than traditional beef meatloaf.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening, looking for a quick chicken dinner that would please the whole family. Now, it’s a staple for our Sunday dinners—easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers!

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Gather these simple ingredients for a perfect homemade chicken meatloaf recipe:

1 pound ground chicken (high-protein choice)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds rich, cheesy flavor)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for a healthy option)
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (fresh Italian flavor)
3 garlic cloves, minced (essential for flavor)
1 egg, beaten (binds everything together)
1 tsp dried oregano (classic Italian seasoning)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup milk (keeps the meatloaf moist)
2 tbsp olive oil (for a golden crust)
1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional) (adds a cheesy top)

Substitutions for Dietary Needs:

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and vegan Parmesan.
Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice crackers.
Alternative Protein: Ground turkey can replace chicken for a twist.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – Best Easy Dinner Recipe — Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – Fenrecipes.com

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves – Step by Step Recipe

Step1: Preheat Your Oven

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.

Step2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add milk to keep the mixture moist. Pro Tip: Don’t overmix to avoid dense loaves.

Step3: Shape the Loaves

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into small loaves. Individual loaves cook faster and are perfect for portion control.

Step4: Add Olive Oil

Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a golden crust.

Step5: Bake the Meatloaves

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.

Step6: Optional Cheesy Topping

In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven to melt for a deliciously cheesy finish.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can result in dense, tough loaves.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a more robust flavor than pre-minced or powdered.
Try a Meat Thermometer: Check for 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy meatloaf.

Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Meatloaf

Breadcrumb Alternatives: Substitute with crushed crackers, panko, or even rolled oats.
Add Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme enhances the Italian flavor profile.
Broil for a Crispy Top: Broil the meatloaves for 1-2 minutes after baking for a crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Meatloaf Dinner

Pair your meatloaf with these delicious sides for a complete weeknight dinner:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy side that pairs perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
Pasta with Olive Oil and Herbs: Simple and Italian-inspired.
Fresh Garden Salad: Light and refreshing with a lemon vinaigrette.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 25g (High-protein meal)
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fats: 21g (Healthy fats from olive oil)
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 650mg
Potassium: 400mg
Vitamin A: 8% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 10% DV

Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Meatloaf

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked meatloaves for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and place in freezer-safe bags.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Leftover Idea: Slice and serve in a chicken meatloaf sandwich with garlic mayo!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Meatloaf Recipe

Q: Can I make this meatloaf in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: How do I prevent dry meatloaf?

Use enough moisture (milk, egg, breadcrumbs) and avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I prepare this chicken meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and shape the loaves a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, but choose a ground turkey blend with at least 7% fat to maintain juiciness.

Related Recipes from Optimal Recipes for Dinner Lovers:

Conclusion: The Ultimate Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for Dinner

There you have it—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves, a high-protein chicken dinner recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight meal or a Sunday dinner, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out! Share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media with your delicious creation.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious chicken dinner!