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Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Herbed Crust and Creamy Finish
Introduction
Chicken meatloaf is a lighter, juicier twist on the traditional beef meatloaf, but when infused with garlic and Parmesan, it becomes irresistible. This recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan with aromatic herbs and a delicate crust that seals in moisture, creating a meatloaf so tender it melts in your mouth. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing your guests, this dish elevates comfort food to gourmet levels without any fuss.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions & Methods
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or oil.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, panko, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Use clean hands or a spatula to mix until ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- Gently press it down and shape it into a smooth loaf.
4. Add the Topping
- Mix the melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley for the crust.
- Spread evenly on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Prepare the Creamy Finish
- While resting, mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with lemon juice and garlic powder.
- Drizzle over sliced meatloaf for a luxurious, creamy touch.
History of Meatloaf & Garlic Parmesan Twist
Meatloaf has roots dating back to 18th-century Europe, evolving from minced meat dishes that stretched small amounts of protein into hearty meals. The American version gained popularity in the early 20th century, especially during economic hardships for its affordability and versatility. Chicken meatloaf emerged as a lighter alternative to beef or pork. Adding Parmesan and garlic is a nod to Italian-American cuisine, which celebrates bold flavors, herbs, and creamy textures, turning a humble comfort dish into something truly gourmet.
Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- High Protein, Low Fat: Ground chicken is leaner than beef, providing protein with less saturated fat.
- Bone & Heart Health: Parmesan offers calcium and phosphorus, supporting bone strength.
- Immune Boosting: Garlic is known for its immune-supporting properties and natural antioxidants.
- Digestive Aid: Panko breadcrumbs add fiber, and Greek yogurt provides probiotics.
- Low Sodium Option: You can reduce salt without losing flavor thanks to the Parmesan and garlic.
Formation & Presentation
- Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick slices.
- Arrange on a platter and drizzle with the creamy yogurt-garlic sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Calcium: 180mg
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is comfort food elevated: moist, flavorful, and aromatic. Its herbed crust and creamy finish make it ideal for dinner parties or family meals. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience, with every bite delivering richness without heaviness.
For Meatloaf Lovers
- Ideal for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze in slices for up to 3 months.
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus to complete the comfort-food vibe.
- Experiment with herbs: thyme, rosemary, or oregano can personalize the flavor.
If you want, I can also create a step-by-step illustrated version of this recipe showing how to shape, bake, and plate it for that perfect Instagram-worthy presentation.
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