This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with rich flavors from garlic and cheesy goodness, making it a hit for dinner.
I love how simple it is to make this meatloaf. Just mix everything up, shape it, and bake! Plus, it makes the house smell amazing while cooking. Who can resist that? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground chicken: This is the star of the dish. You can use ground turkey if you can’t find chicken. It will work well, but keep in mind that turkey can be slightly drier, so you might want to add a bit more cream.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture. If you prefer gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can even make your own by grinding up some of your favorite crackers or stale bread.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor and texture. If it’s out of reach, Pecorino Romano can be a bold substitute, or try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Heavy cream or milk: For a lighter version, use milk or a dairy-free milk alternative. Coconut milk can add a nice richness if you don’t mind a little coconut flavor.
Fresh parsley: While fresh is ideal, dried works too. You could also use fresh basil or thyme if that’s what you have on hand; they pair nicely with the garlic.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Is Juicy and Flavorful?
A juicy meatloaf keeps everyone coming back for seconds! To achieve that, start by not over-mixing the ingredients. When combining, just mix until everything is combined to keep it light. Also, sautéing the garlic and onions before adding them helps release their flavors and keeps moisture in the meatloaf.
- Pre-cook onions and garlic to build flavor and prevent excess moisture.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to keep the juices intact; this helps avoid a dry slice!
- Consider adding a drizzle of your favorite sauce on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 45–55 minutes to cook, plus an extra 10 minutes for resting before you slice it. In about 1 hour and 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your meatloaf is ready to bake. You can line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Onion:
Grab a small skillet and heat up olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Once they’re done, set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the meat mixture.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). It should smell amazing already!
4. Add the Sautéed Garlic and Onion:
Now, add the sautéed garlic and onions to the mixture. Gently mix everything together but be careful not to overwork it; you want to keep your meatloaf nice and tender!
5. Shape Your Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on your prepared baking sheet or into your greased loaf pan. Make sure it’s even all around to ensure even cooking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown. Trust me, your kitchen will smell delightful!
7. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is so important because it allows the juices to settle, keeping your meatloaf juicy when you slice it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Optional but recommended: Serve your delicious meatloaf with a creamy Parmesan sauce or alongside steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy chicken meatloaf!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey! It will work well, but keep in mind that it can be slightly drier than chicken, so you may want to increase the cream or add a bit of extra moisture, like a splash of broth.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply substitute the Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. This will keep the texture and flavor intact while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I Prepare the Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the meatloaf ingredients ahead of time and store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape it into a loaf and bake as instructed when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating can help keep it moist.
