Name: Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 large egg (lightly beaten); 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley (divided); 1 jar prepared marinara sauce (divided (15.5 ounce)); 3/4 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning blend; salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste); 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Introduction to Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

What is Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf?

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious twist on classic comfort food, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Chicken Parmesan meatloaf combines the savory flavors of traditional Italian chicken Parmesan with the heartiness of a meatloaf, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Imagine succulent ground chicken seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, all topped with a rich marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy family dinner. The combination of protein, flavor, and comfort makes it a go-to for many households. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a side of your favorite pasta and a vibrant green salad, making it a complete meal in one!

For those curious about nutrition, using ground chicken offers a leaner alternative to beef or pork, making this dish both tasty and health-conscious. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this Chicken Parmesan meatloaf will surely impress your family and friends.

Want to elevate your weeknight meals? Dive into this recipe and bring an Italian classic into your home today!

For more Italian dishes, check out this collection of recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Creating a delicious chicken parmesan meatloaf doesn’t require a lengthy shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground chicken: This lean protein serves as the base of your meatloaf, providing a flavorful and healthy option.
1 cup finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings that aromatic punch we all love in Italian cooking.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, divided: Fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also adds a burst of color.
1 (15.5 ounce) jar prepared marinara sauce, divided: Because what’s chicken parmesan without marinara?
¾ cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs: This adds texture and absorbs moisture, keeping your meatloaf tender.
⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Expect a cheesy delight in every bite!
1 ½ teaspoons Italian herb seasoning blend: A mix of flavors that screams comfort food.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.

Feel free to adapt these ingredients according to dietary preferences—this recipe is all about flexibility while keeping that amazing chicken parmesan essence you crave. Ready to dive into this dish? Let’s get cooking!

Preparing Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Creating a Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf can seem like a daunting task, but I promise—it’s easier than it looks! This delicious recipe combines classic Italian flavors with the hearty comfort of meatloaf, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into any recipe, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. For this chicken parmesan meatloaf, you’ll need:

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, divided
1 (15.5 ounce) jar prepared marinara sauce, divided
¾ cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 ½ teaspoons Italian herb seasoning blend
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Once everything is laid out, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C), and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

Now, let’s get mixing! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with the onion, garlic, egg, ¼ cup parsley, ½ cup of marinara sauce, Italian breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. The best tool for this job is your hands—don’t be shy! Make sure everything is well-combined but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tougher meatloaf.

Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Transfer your mixture into the prepared loaf pan and gently shape it into a loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. This allows the meatloaf to cook through and develop those beautiful Italian flavors. Your kitchen will start to smell divine!

Add Marinara and Mozzarella

After 45 minutes, it’s time for the second act. Brush the top of the meatloaf with ¼ cup of marinara sauce and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prepare the Crunchy Topping

While the meatloaf finishes baking, let’s add a flavorful crunch! In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the panko and garlic powder. Stir frequently until the panko turns a lovely golden brown—about 3 to 4 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of parsley for a pop of flavor.

Final Touches and Serve

Once your meatloaf has cooled for a few minutes, top it with the crunchy panko mixture and garnish with any remaining marinara sauce. Serve alongside your favorite pasta and a fresh salad. This delightful chicken parmesan meatloaf is sure to impress your friends and family!

For more cooking inspiration, check out sites like AllRecipes for ideas on how to pair this dish with sides. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Variations on Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Elevate your chicken parmesan meatloaf experience with these delicious variations!

Spinach and Ricotta Variation

For a delightful twist, incorporate fresh spinach and ricotta cheese into your meatloaf mix. Simply fold in one cup of wilted spinach and ½ cup of ricotta before baking. This not only adds a creamy texture but also brings a vibrant green color, making the dish more appealing. Plus, you’ll sneak in some extra nutrients!

Gluten-Free Option

If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap out the Italian seasoned bread crumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This simple change ensures everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of chicken parmesan meatloaf without compromising flavor or texture. Just be sure to check the labels for any hidden gluten!

For more ideas, check out this guide to gluten-free cooking for inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

When crafting your chicken Parmesan meatloaf, there are a few key tips to keep in mind for the best results:

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh herbs and quality Parmesan cheese for that authentic Italian flavor. Locally sourced produce can elevate your dish.
Moisture Control: Ground chicken can be lean, so don’t skimp on the egg or marinara to keep your meatloaf moist.
Panko Perfection: For added crunch, ensure your panko bread crumbs are well-toasted before mixing.
Resting Period: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to maintain juicy flavor.

For more insights on meatloaf variations, consider checking out resources like Bon Appétit or Food Network. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Best side dishes to complement

When enjoying your chicken Parmesan meatloaf, consider pairing it with delightful sides that enhance its Italian flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these potatoes can soak up the marinara goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: Think zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed in olive oil for a colorfully healthy accompaniment.
Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and a tangy dressing balance the richness of the meatloaf nicely.

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Pairings

While traditional wine might feel like a classic choice, there are delicious non-alcoholic alternatives that pair wonderfully with this dish:

Sparkling Water with Lemon: Adds a refreshing touch and cleanses the palate.
Herbal Iced Tea: A lightly brewed tea infused with herbs can complement the meal's flavors beautifully.
Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider brings a sweet contrast to the savory notes of the meatloaf.

Feel free to pick one or mix and match! These pairings will elevate your dinner experience.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up this chicken Parmesan meatloaf only takes about 15 minutes. Gather all your ingredients, chop up that onion and parsley, and you’re ready to go!

Cooking Time

Once your loaf is in the oven, let it bake for 1 hour. You'll have a tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen in no time!

Total Time

From prep to plate, the entire process takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day at work!

Feeling inspired? Check out more about the art of meatloaf making on Serious Eats for tips and tricks!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf packs in approximately 369 calories. This makes it a hearty yet manageable option for those looking to indulge without going overboard.

Key Nutrients

Dive into a delightful mix of essential nutrients with this meatloaf:

Protein: 27g to help keep you full and support muscle health.
Total Fat: 17g, with a reasonable Saturated Fat content of 6g.
Cholesterol: 130mg, providing a good source of nourishing ingredients.
Sodium: 912mg, so you may want to pair it with low-sodium sides.
Carbohydrates: 27g for a balanced energy source, including 3g of dietary fiber.

To get more insights on healthy eating and meal prepping, you might consider checking out resources from organizations like the American Heart Association or the USDA's ChooseMyPlate.gov.

FAQs about Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to chicken in this Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf. It will yield a slightly different flavor profile, but it’s equally delicious and can be a healthier option. Just be sure to check the fat content; a leaner ground turkey might result in a drier meatloaf, so you might want to add a splash more marinara or an extra egg to keep it moist.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing your Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf is easy! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best taste, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf?

Definitely! Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf. Slice the meatloaf and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place those in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warm. Check out more tips on freezing meatloaf on Healthline.

Conclusion on Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

In conclusion, the chicken parmesan meatloaf brings a delightful twist to a classic dish, bursting with rich Italian flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Serve it alongside pasta for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy!