Tender ground chicken blended with Parmesan, garlic, herbs, and a creamy glaze creates a comforting, juicy, and richly flavored meatloaf. Each slice is moist, aromatic, and finished with a glossy Parmesan-garlic coating that makes this dish feel special while still being easy enough for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf stands out for its soft, juicy texture and bold savory flavor. The aromatic blend of fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan develops a beautiful crust while staying tender inside. It is simple to prepare, family friendly, and pairs effortlessly with sides like mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Resting the loaf before slicing ensures every serving stays moist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

900 g ground chicken
100 g grated Parmesan cheese
60 g panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp dried basil
0.5 tsp dried parsley
0.5 tsp fine salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
60 ml whole milk

Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
45 g unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
25 g grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
Pinch of fine salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, panko, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until evenly combined without overworking.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet, or press evenly into a loaf pan.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and parsley, cooking another 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with a small pinch of salt.
6. Brush the baked meatloaf generously with the warm glaze. Return it to the oven for 5–7 minutes to set the glaze.
7. Remove from the oven and let the loaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes

Variations

• Replace ground chicken with ground turkey for a slightly deeper flavor while keeping the dish light.
• Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier profile.
• Add finely chopped spinach or cooked mushrooms to the mixture for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Mix in a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
• Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before the final bake for a more pronounced crust.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, cover slices with foil and warm in a low oven until heated through.
For long-term storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in parchment and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the meatloaf moist?

Avoid overmixing and be sure to include milk and eggs, which help maintain a tender texture.

Can I substitute ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works very well and delivers similar tenderness.

Why use both minced garlic and garlic powder?

Using both ensures a deeper and more consistent garlic flavor throughout the loaf.

Do I need to use the glaze?

The glaze adds moisture, richness, and a glossy finish, greatly enhancing the final dish.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 74°C.

Can I prepare the meatloaf in advance?

Yes, assemble the loaf ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You may use dairy-free milk and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though flavor will vary.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the texture similar.

How do I prevent the loaf from becoming dense?

Mix gently and avoid packing the meat mixture too tightly when shaping.

What sides pair best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a simple lemony salad pair beautifully.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf offers a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and a creamy Parmesan glaze, it creates a satisfying dish that fits perfectly into weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Simple steps, everyday ingredients, and a melt-in-your-mouth finish make it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.

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