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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Flavorful Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Delight

This Italian-Style Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic, featuring gooey mozzarella and a luscious marinara topping.
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: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with canola oil if needed.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides an aromatic base; shallots can work as a substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder is a quick alternative.
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken The main protein; feel free to swap with turkey or lean beef.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Acts as a binder; seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Adds moisture; use unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Offers rich saltiness; consider grated pecorino as a substitute.
  • 1 large Egg Binds everything together; ground flaxseed mixed with water serves as a vegan alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and color; dried parsley can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Enhances flavor with Italian herbs; adjust to your preference.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for flavor; tailor according to dietary needs.
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese Strings Melts perfectly inside the meatloaf; shredded mozzarella works as well.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Adds moisture and flavor; homemade or store-bought works well.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Gives a crispy topping; regular breadcrumbs can be used instead.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness; olive oil can be a substitute for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella For a gooey topping; vegan mozzarella is a suitable replacement.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with foil.
  2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled onion and garlic with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until just combined.
  4. Shape two-thirds of the mixture into a rectangle on the baking sheet. Place mozzarella in the center and cover with remaining mixture.
  5. Spread marinara sauce over the meatloaf.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Mix panko, Parmesan, butter, and parsley for topping. Add to meatloaf and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make ahead by assembling up to 24 hours in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 4 months.

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