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Sliced Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf on a white plate with golden Parmesan crust and fresh parsley garnish

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Juicy, flavorful meatloaf made with ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, fresh garlic, and a golden Parmesan garlic butter topping. A leaner, family-friendly twist on classic meatloaf that is easy enough for any weeknight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 370

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping; freshly grated preferred
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth poured into bottom of pan around meatloaf
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder mixed into melted butter for topping

Equipment

  • 9x5 inch loaf pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small skillet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and lightly beaten eggs. Add the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until just combined.
  3. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Pour garlic and oil into the mixing bowl. Add chopped fresh parsley and stir to combine.
  4. Add ground chicken to the bowl. Mix gently with hands or a fork until just combined. Stop as soon as no dry spots remain. Do not overmix or the meatloaf will be tough.
  5. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape into an even loaf and press lightly to remove air pockets.
  6. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic powder. Brush generously over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle with a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the loaf pan around the meatloaf, not over it.
  8. Bake uncovered for 60 to 70 minutes. Begin checking internal temperature at 55 minutes using a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest center part. Meatloaf is done at 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). If top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Run a knife around the edges, then slice and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the ground chicken or the texture will turn tough. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer at 165 degrees F. Let the meatloaf rest a full 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.