Description
If you’re searching for a hearty yet simple meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. The garlic and parmesan combination adds a delightful twist to traditional meatloaf, making it not just a meal but an experience. You can serve it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. It’s also perfect for meal prepping since it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
Ground Chicken – 1 pound
Ground chicken serves as the base for this meatloaf. It provides lean protein and ensures that the dish remains moist while cooking.
Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic flavor that elevates the taste of the meatloaf. It infuses each bite with a punch of savory goodness.
Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (grated)
Grated parmesan adds richness and depth to the meatloaf. Its salty flavor complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Bread Crumbs – ¾ cup
Bread crumbs help bind the mixture together while keeping it light. They also absorb moisture during baking, ensuring tenderness in every slice.
Egg – 1 large
The egg acts as a binder in this recipe, helping all the ingredients stick together. It also contributes to the overall texture of the meatloaf.
Milk – ¼ cup
Milk adds moisture to the mixture without making it too wet. It helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth consistency we’re aiming for.
Italian Seasoning – 1 tablespoon
This blend of herbs gives our meatloaf additional flavor complexity. It enhances the overall taste without overpowering other ingredients.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly throughout when placed inside.
Step 2: Prepare Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, milk, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Shape Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Shape it into a loaf form about one inch thick for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake Meatloaf
Place your shaped meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a food thermometer.
Step 5: Let Rest
Once cooked through, remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute within the loaf for optimal tenderness.
Step 6: Serve
Slice your melt-in-your-mouth garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf into portions and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Notes
For perfect Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, consider using ground chicken with a bit of fat content. Chicken breast alone might yield a drier loaf, so combining white and dark meat can enhance moisture and flavor. Adding grated Parmesan cheese not only boosts flavor but also improves texture.
When mixing your ingredients, try adding sautéed onions and garlic for an extra depth of flavor. Sautéing these aromatics helps release their natural oils and sweetness, making them more flavorful once incorporated into the meat mixture.
Using a loaf pan lined with parchment paper can simplify cleanup and allow for easier lifting once cooked. This technique also helps maintain shape while baking. Additionally, brushing the meatloaf with a garlic butter glaze before baking adds an irresistible shine and flavor boost.
Another tip is to bake at a lower temperature for longer periods rather than high heat for short times. This method promotes even cooking throughout the loaf without drying out the outside layers.