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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf combines savory chicken and melty mozzarella for a satisfying family dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and flavor; feel free to use any neutral oil if preferred.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced; shallots or leeks work well as substitutes.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for depth of flavor; powdered garlic is a quick alternative.
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Main protein source; ground turkey or lean beef can be used.
  • 1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs Provides structure; opt for Italian breadcrumbs or gluten-free versions.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Adds moisture; substitute with non-dairy milk for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Infuses rich umami flavor; consider using Pecorino or nutritional yeast.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the meatloaf; substitute with a flax egg or chia seed gel.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds fresh herbal notes; alternatively, use basil or oregano.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Offers a blend of spices; mix individual herbs if preferred.
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste preference.
For the Center and Topping
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Provides a gooey center; use full-fat shredded mozzarella.
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Delicious topping; use homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs For a crunchy topping; can substitute with regular breadcrumbs.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Binds breadcrumb topping; choose olive oil or vegan butter for dairy-free.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, cooled onion-garlic mixture, 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently.
  3. On a lined baking sheet, form about two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle. Create a trench down the center and fill with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with remaining meat mixture.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the meatloaf. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for about 45 minutes until edges brown and internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
  5. Prepare topping by mixing 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley. After 45 minutes of baking, sprinkle this topping over the meatloaf.
  6. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until topping is golden and crispy. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow sautéed onion and garlic to cool before adding to avoid cooking the egg. Mix gently to prevent a dense loaf. Ensure mozzarella is encased in meat to prevent leakage. Use thermometer to check internal temperature. Let rest after baking for ideal slicing.

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