Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This meatloaf is tender, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Juicy ground chicken, a hint of garlic, and a golden parmesan crust—need I say more?

I made it for dinner last night, and it was a total winner. The parmesan adds a crispy top, and the inside stays super moist and flavorful. Plus, it’s healthier than beef!

It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Great for leftovers, sandwiches, or meal prep. Trust me, you’ll be making this one on repeat.

Let’s get cooking! This parmesan chicken meatloaf is easy, delicious, and sure to be a new family favorite. Grab your loaf pan—it’s go time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced and Flavorful: Unlike traditional beef meatloaf, this version uses ground chicken, which is leaner and lighter. The addition of Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce infuses moisture and a pop of flavor, making every bite juicy and satisfying.
• Easy Prep, Big Results: The ingredients are straightforward—no fancy steps, no hard-to-find items. Just mix, shape, bake, and enjoy a flavorful dish that tastes like it took more effort than it really did.
• Customizable: Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper. Craving extra cheese? Add more mozzarella. This recipe is a solid base that invites creativity.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The meatloaf holds together beautifully, making it ideal for sandwiches or reheated dinners the next day.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes – This includes mixing the ingredients and shaping the loaf.
Cook Time: 45 minutes – Baking low and slow keeps the chicken moist and helps the flavors meld.
Total Time: About 1 hour – Quick enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for guests.

Servings: One standard loaf, serving 6-8 generous slices. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Difficulty: Beginner-friendly, but satisfying for experienced cooks. This dish doesn’t require advanced skills—just a bit of attention to detail to avoid a dry loaf.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple—one for the chicken mixture, one for the topping.
• 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: This gives the meatloaf its classic shape. If you don’t have one, a parchment-lined baking sheet works fine, but the loaf will spread a bit more.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters here, especially with the breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
• Spatula or Spoon: For mixing the ingredients together.
• Meat Thermometer (Optional): While not necessary, a thermometer helps ensure the center of the loaf reaches 165°F for food safety.

Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s a closer look at what goes into this dish and why each ingredient matters:

• 1 lb Ground Chicken: Lean but flavorful, it’s the base of the meatloaf. Look for 93% lean for a good balance of moisture and structure.
• 1/2 cup Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These add both binding and seasoning, bringing herby notes that complement the chicken.
• 1 Large Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the loaf hold its shape when sliced.
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, umami depth, and helps keep the loaf moist.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds savory warmth without the risk of burning, like fresh garlic might.
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: Brings a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which give that classic Italian aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt and 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Essential for flavor balance.
• 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce: Spread on top of the loaf for moisture and a bright, tomato-rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a gooey topping that makes this meatloaf extra inviting.
• 1/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top for crunch, balancing the soft texture of the loaf.
• 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese (for topping): Adds a layer of flavor and extra cheesiness.
• 1 tablespoon Melted Butter: Brushed over the topping to help it brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Variations for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Add Fresh Herbs: Try mixing in finely chopped parsley or basil for an extra pop of freshness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a subtle kick.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out the mozzarella for provolone or fontina if you prefer a different melt and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones to make the dish gluten-free.
• Mini Loaves: Instead of one large loaf, shape the mixture into individual mini loaves or even muffin-size portions for quicker baking and easy portion control.

How to Make Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Italian-style breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatloaf might turn out dense.

3. Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it into an even shape. Smooth the top with a spatula for a polished finish.

4. Add the Marinara Sauce

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds moisture and a rich, tomato flavor as it bakes.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

6. Add the Toppings

Remove the loaf from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan over the top. Drizzle with melted butter.

7. Finish Baking

Return the loaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden and crisp.

8. Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the loaf moist. Slice and serve warm.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid a tough meatloaf.
• Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures your loaf is cooked to the right temperature without overbaking.
• Line Your Pan: Parchment paper makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Let It Rest: Resting the meatloaf helps retain its juices and makes slicing cleaner.

Serving and Decoration

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a versatile main dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Classic Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles and a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
• Lighter Options: Pair with a crisp garden salad or roasted zucchini for a lighter meal.
• Garnish Suggestions: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Storing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• In the Fridge: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• In the Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice, approx.)
Calories	280
Protein	23g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	6g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	500mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and provides a similar texture and flavor.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can mix and shape the meatloaf up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Add the marinara sauce and toppings just before baking.

Q: What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
A: Crushed crackers or oats can be used in place of breadcrumbs. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should read 165°F at the thickest part. The topping should also be bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a simple yet flavorful twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with tender ground chicken, fragrant herbs, and melty cheese, making it a satisfying meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping for the week, or simply craving something comforting, this recipe brings together ease and flavor in every bite.

Enjoy it fresh from the oven, or make ahead and savor leftovers later—it’s a reliable recipe that always delivers.