Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting, flavorful meals that feel like a warm hug, you’re going to love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. It’s the perfect blend of juicy ground chicken infused with savory garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. The best part is, before you even start baking, you’ll want to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil to create the ideal non-stick environment that keeps every slice intact while baking to perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. Each one plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.

• 2 lbs ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps this meatloaf light and packed with flavor.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Adds a delicate crunch and helps with the meatloaf’s structure.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, slightly salty punch that lifts all the flavors.
• ¼ cup milk: Keeps the meat mixture moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together just right.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic and robust garlic essence.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and greasing the pan for a buttery finish.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds herbal depth.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat and complexity.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers freshness and vibrant color throughout.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Keeps the meatloaf juicy while baking.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Combined with garlic powder for a luscious topping.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Elevates the garlic flavor on top of the meatloaf.

How to Make Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together the milk and lightly beaten eggs in a large mixing bowl. This liquid base ensures your meat mixture stays beautifully moist, which is key for that tender meatloaf everyone craves.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these with the wet ingredients creates a perfectly seasoned foundation for your meatloaf.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This brief step mellows out the raw garlic’s sharpness and draws out its rich, nutty aroma.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Parsley

Pour the warm garlic and oil mixture into your meat mixture. Then, add the fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the entire dish.

Step 5: Add Ground Chicken

Gently fold in the ground chicken with your other ingredients until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender and light.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once your loaf is shaped.

Step 7: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil

This is a crucial step: lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and help your meatloaf bake evenly. It also makes cleanup so much easier, allowing those crispy bits to release effortlessly.

Step 8: Shape Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently and shape it into an even loaf for uniform baking and that classic meatloaf look.

Step 9: Create Garlic Butter Topping

Mix melted butter with garlic powder in a small bowl. This fragrant garlic butter adds richness and an irresistible golden crust when brushed on top.

Step 10: Brush with Garlic Butter

Generously brush the garlic butter over the meatloaf’s surface, ensuring every bite has that buttery garlic goodness.

Step 11: Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over the top. This not only amps up the cheesy flavor but also gives a delightful, slightly crunchy topping as it bakes.

Step 12: Add Chicken Broth to the Pan

Pour chicken broth carefully around the meatloaf in the pan. This adds moisture to the oven environment, ensuring the meatloaf stays tender and juicy.

Step 13: Bake Meatloaf

Place your pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken meatloaf will have a golden crust with tender, flavorful insides.

Step 14: Check for Doneness

The best way to be sure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked is to check that it reaches 165°F and ensure the fork juices run clear—no pinkness left behind.

Step 15: Rest Meatloaf

Let the meatloaf rest outside the oven for 10-15 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, so your slices will be juicy and not fall apart.

Step 16: Slice Meatloaf

Carefully slice into even portions—this is your moment to admire that golden top and the tender crumb inside.

Step 17: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the best part: serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf right away and watch it become an instant family favorite!

How to Serve Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesy, garlicky notes of the meatloaf. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkling of Parmesan on each slice elevates presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Serve this meatloaf alongside mashed potatoes for that classic comfort combo or toss a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic butter green beans also complement the flavors perfectly, making every meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this meatloaf into sandwiches using crusty rolls and a smear of garlic aioli or tomato sauce. Or prepare mini meatloaf muffins using a muffin tin and, of course, lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil to mimic the classic loaf experience in bite-sized portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover meatloaf cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for convenient, ready-to-reheat portions. Just remember to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil when you reheat in the oven so it doesn’t stick.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the slices with foil and warm in a 350°F oven to keep the meatloaf moist. For a fresh finish, brush with a bit more garlic butter before warming. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully. Just be mindful of slightly longer cooking times and possibly add a tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture.

Why do I need to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil?

Greasing the pan ensures the meatloaf doesn’t stick, helping you lift out perfect slices without wrecking their shape. It also promotes even cooking and easy cleanup afterward.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will stay just as lovely.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) and that the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix all ingredients and shape the meatloaf, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil before transferring the mixture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing says comfort quite like a warm slice of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf fresh from the oven. Following the simple but essential tip to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil ensures every bite is perfect and the whole process is a breeze. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a loving staple in your kitchen as well!

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