Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf, packed with rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. These mini meatloaves are perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a savory and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

• Ground Chicken: 1 pound of ground chicken forms the base of these flavorful meatloaves, offering a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatloaf.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic and herbs.
• Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs helps bind the meatloaf mixture together, keeping it moist and tender.
• Finely Chopped Parsley: 1/4 cup of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness to the meatloaves.
• Minced Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced, infuse the meatloaves with a robust garlic flavor that complements the Parmesan cheese.
• Beaten Egg: 1 egg helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring the meatloaves hold their shape during baking.
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp of dried oregano adds a hint of Mediterranean flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Salt: 1/2 tsp of salt helps to season the meatloaves, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp of black pepper adds a touch of heat and balances the flavors in the meatloaf.
• Milk: 1/4 cup of milk is added to the mixture to keep the meatloaves moist and tender during baking.
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp of olive oil is drizzled over the meatloaves before baking, helping to create a golden, crispy crust.
• Grated Mozzarella Cheese (Optional): 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese can be added on top of the meatloaves during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare the meatloaf mixture.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3:

Add the milk to the mixture and continue to mix until the milk is fully absorbed and the mixture is smooth and moist.

Step 4:

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a mini loaf. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.

Step 5:

Drizzle the tops of the mini meatloaves with olive oil. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy crust as they bake.

Step 6:

Bake the meatloaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The meatloaves should be firm to the touch and golden brown on top.

Step 7:

If you’re adding mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the meatloaves during the last 5 minutes of baking. Allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 8:

Once baked, remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaves more tender and flavorful.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves hot, straight out of the oven, with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
• If you’re planning to serve them later, let the meatloaves cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the meatloaves in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their crispy texture.
• For a meal prep option, you can freeze the cooked meatloaves for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

Helpful Notes

• For a bit of extra flavor, you can mix some grated lemon zest into the meatloaf mixture. It pairs wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan.
• If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• The meatloaves can also be made with ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different protein.
• For a cheesy surprise inside, you can stuff each meatloaf with a small cube of mozzarella before baking.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Rachael Ray recommends adding a spoonful of pesto to the meatloaf mixture for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor.
• Chef Jamie Oliver suggests using a mix of fresh and dried herbs to elevate the flavor of your meatloaves.
• Chef Ina Garten advises letting the meatloaves rest before slicing to keep them from falling apart and to retain their juices.