Introduction

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring juicy ground chicken mixed with aromatic herbs and stuffed with gooey mozzarella. This recipe is simple to prepare and delivers a cheesy, savory meal perfect for family dinners.

The image shows a close-up of several thick slices of a golden brown baked dish with a crispy, slightly charred crust and gooey melted white cheese layered inside. The dish has a rough textured surface with green herb bits scattered throughout, especially on top. The slices are arranged in a row on a wooden board with a small bunch of fresh green herbs to the side, set on a white marbled surface with a deep red cloth blurred in the background. The texture looks crunchy outside and soft inside, with the cheese visibly stretching between the layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
80 g onion (finely diced)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
900 g ground chicken
60 g seasoned breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons milk
30 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
3 mozzarella cheese strings (cut into 1cm slices)
120 ml marinara sauce
2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
20 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 tablespoon butter (melted)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
120 g mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix just until combined, taking care not to overmix.
Step 4: Pat two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 20 cm by 10 cm. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese strings down the center, then top with the remaining chicken mixture. Shape into a loaf, sealing the cheese inside.
Step 5: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 6: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley for the topping.
Step 7: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, then evenly cover with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 8: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the topping is golden and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Step 9: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture or substitute with provolone for a sharper flavor.
Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can boost nutrition and add moisture.
For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed nuts.
Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A round loaf of bread is sliced into thick pieces, with each slice showing layers of melted white cheese and finely chopped green herbs. The bread's crust is golden brown and crispy, with some parts darker and toasted. The inside is soft and filled with melted cheese, oozing slightly between the slices. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled on top and around the bread on a white plate, which rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and offers a similar texture and mild flavor.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to ensure it is safely cooked.