Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s easy to make and loved by the whole family? Look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves! These mini meatloaves are packed with tender, juicy chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all perfectly seasoned to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. They’re easy to make, cook quickly, and offer a healthier twist on the classic meatloaf by using lean ground chicken instead of beef. With crispy, golden edges and a savory garlic-Parmesan crust, these individual meatloaves are the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal, or enjoy them as a snack on their own. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaves will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful and Juicy

The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings ensures each bite is packed with flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

These mini meatloaves are much faster to cook than a traditional meatloaf, making them ideal for busy nights. The preparation is simple, and they’re ready in about 30 minutes.

3. Healthier Alternative

Using lean ground chicken instead of beef makes this dish lower in fat and calories, offering a healthier twist on a classic comfort food.

4. Perfectly Portioned

Each meatloaf is an individual serving, so there’s no need to slice and serve—everyone gets their own perfectly portioned meatloaf.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients in this recipe to suit your tastes. Add more garlic, use different cheese varieties, or add some vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Bread crumbs
• Eggs
• Milk
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy version of these meatloaves.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these meatloaves gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatloaves

Using your hands, divide the meat mixture into individual portions and shape them into small, oval meatloaves. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaves

Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each meatloaf to help them brown and become crispy. Bake the meatloaves in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on top. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer—each meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Do Not Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the chicken mixture. Overmixing can result in tough meatloaves.
• Moisture Balance: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency for easy shaping.
• Use Lean Chicken: For the best result, use lean ground chicken or ground chicken breast for a lighter version of the dish.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaves are fully cooked. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Customize the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add extra cloves to the mixture for a more intense garlic flavor.

How to Serve

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, you can serve them in a sandwich bun with some lettuce and tomato, making them a delicious chicken meatloaf sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing

These meatloaves freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each meatloaf individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until fully heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftover or frozen meatloaves, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until hot. For frozen meatloaves, allow extra time for reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

2. Can I bake these meatloaves in a muffin tin?

Absolutely! You can use a muffin tin to bake these meatloaves in individual portions. Just adjust the baking time to about 15-20 minutes.

3. Can I make these meatloaves ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You can also shape the meatloaves and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. How can I make these meatloaves spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for some extra heat. You could also use a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

5. Can I make these meatloaves without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with oats, crushed crackers, or almond flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

6. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as it melts and incorporates better into the mixture.

7. Can I cook these meatloaves on the stovetop?

While baking gives the best result, you can cook the meatloaves on the stovetop in a skillet. Simply brown them on all sides over medium heat, then cover and cook on low until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?

Yes! You can finely chop vegetables like onions, carrots, or spinach and mix them into the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

9. Can I freeze the raw meatloaves?

Yes, you can freeze the raw meatloaves before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen as needed.

10. How do I know when the meatloaves are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The meatloaf should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a delicious, healthier twist on a classic favorite. With tender ground chicken, aromatic garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese, these meatloaves are packed with flavor and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving them with your favorite sides or enjoying them on their own, these mini meatloaves will become a family staple in no time. Try them out tonight, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare!

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