If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes — comfort food, weeknight-friendly, and packed with irresistible flavor — Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are about to become your new obsession. Imagine mini meatloaves, tender and juicy, infused with savory Parmesan, a pop of fresh garlic, and just the right hint of Italian herbs. These personal-sized delights are topped with melty mozzarella for an ultra-satisfying finish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for the week, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves deliver everything you love about classic meatloaf in a lighter, modern package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves is how approachable the ingredient list is. Every element works in harmony to build irresistible flavor, tender texture, and that signature golden finish. Here’s what you’ll need to make magic happen:
- Ground chicken: The star ingredient, it keeps these mini meatloaves wonderfully moist and lean compared to traditional beef.
- Breadcrumbs: These act as the binder and help achieve a tender, non-dense bite every time.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty depth throughout the whole loaf.
- Minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses each bite with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Large egg: Essential for binding everything together and adding richness.
- Milk: Just a splash keeps the meatloaves moist and soft.
- Fresh parsley: Gives a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note.
- Salt: Brings out all the savory flavors — don’t skimp!
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and balances the cheese and herbs.
- Italian seasoning: Layers in classic Mediterranean flair with a blend of dried herbs.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty topping everyone loves.
- Olive oil: Brushed on top for a gorgeous golden finish and richer taste.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a muffin tin or a few small loaf pans. This not only prevents sticking, but it also helps the edges of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves get that crave-worthy golden crust.
Step 2: Build the Meatloaf Mixture
Grab a large bowl and combine your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, milk, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently with clean hands or a fork — just until everything is incorporated. Overworking the mixture can make the meatloaves dense, so keep it light and fluffy for best results.
Step 3: Shape and Portion
Divide the mixture evenly into six portions. Gently press each portion into your prepared muffin tin wells or shape into mini loaves on a baking sheet. Try not to compact them too much, as a loose shape means a juicier, more tender Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Bake
Drizzle or brush just a bit of olive oil over the tops of each meatloaf. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The olive oil gives each loaf a beautiful finish and keeps the tops moist.
Step 5: The Melty Cheese Finale
Once baked, carefully remove the tray and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over each mini loaf. Return the pan to the oven for a quick 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts into bubbly, stretchy perfection. Let your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves rest for about 5 minutes before serving so they hold together beautifully on your plate.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Garnishes
Try a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a twist of cracked black pepper for added flavor and color right before serving. A little touch of fresh herbs makes each Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf look as irresistible as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These mini meatloaves pair like a dream with roasted vegetables — think garlicky green beans, honey-glazed carrots, or crispy Brussels sprouts. A bright, tossed salad and a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes also complement the flavors and create a complete, comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves on a platter for family-style serving, or tuck them into sandwich rolls with fresh greens for a fun twist. You can even slice leftovers and pile them on top of simple pasta or zucchini noodles for a whole new meal the next day!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pop any extra Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves into an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each meatloaf individually in plastic wrap and store them together in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves in a 350°F oven for about 10–12 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist. You can also microwave in short bursts until heated through, just be sure not to overdo it so the chicken stays juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great if you want to keep things light, and ground beef will create a richer, heartier version. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste and check for doneness, as cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I know when my mini meatloaves are fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatloaf — when it hits 165°F, they’re done. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re good to go. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so this substitution makes for an easy, allergy-friendly option.
Are these good for meal prep?
They’re fantastic for meal prep! Each Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf reheats well and keeps its flavor and texture, making weekday lunches and dinners a breeze. Store individually in containers for grab-and-go convenience.
What’s the best way to keep them moist?
The milk, egg, and olive oil are key to keeping these meatloaves tender and juicy. Be sure not to overmix the meat, and watch your baking time, removing them from the oven as soon as they’re cooked through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves — easy enough for any night, yet special enough to share with friends. I can’t recommend this recipe enough for those craving a cozy, fuss-free dinner with tons of flavor. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become a regular request at your table!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 mini meatloaves 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a flavorful twist on a classic dish, with tender ground chicken, savory Parmesan, and a gooey mozzarella topping. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaves:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a muffin tin or small loaf pans.
- Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, egg, milk, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Shape and bake: Divide the mixture into 6 portions in the tin or shape into loaves. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella on top of each meatloaf. Bake for an additional 2–3 minutes until melted.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
- Ground turkey or beef can be used as substitutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
