Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken (90-93% lean); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1/4 cup grated or finely chopped onion; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon flour; 3/4 cup milk; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are exactly what you need. Tender ground chicken meets a perfect blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs to create meatloaves that are juicy, savory, and downright addictive. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of creamy sauce and hearty, flavorful bites that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the lean ground chicken providing a light base to the sharp, salty Parmesan adding depth, every item is essential for achieving that homey and satisfying taste and texture.

1 lb ground chicken (90-93% lean): The lean protein star of the dish, keeping it light yet filling.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that infuses every bite with warmth.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings savory, salty notes and a rich umami flavor.
1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaves and keeps them tender.
1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together smoothly.
1/4 cup grated or finely chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried): Freshens the dish with a bright herbaceous hint.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, spicy warmth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a classic Mediterranean flair.
2 tablespoons butter: Used in the sauce for richness and smooth texture.
2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce): Infuses the creamy sauce with aromatic garlic goodness.
1 tablespoon flour: Helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
3/4 cup milk: Creates a silky base for the Parmesan sauce.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Melts into the sauce, ensuring a luscious cheesy finish.
Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the sauce perfectly.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Step 1: Prep the oven and baking vessel

Start by preheating your oven to a comfortable 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease a muffin tin if you want perfectly shaped mini meatloaves. This sets the stage for evenly cooked, tender meatloaves every time.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves stay light and fluffy, not dense.

Step 3: Shape the meatloaves

Form the mixture into small, individual meatloaves or scoop it evenly into the muffin tin cups if you opted for that method. This step shapes the flavor-packed mixture into perfectly portioned bites that cook through quickly and evenly.

Step 4: Bake to perfection

Pop your meatloaves into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked but remains incredibly moist and tender.

Step 5: Make the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce

While the meatloaves bake, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and cook for a minute until aromatic. Whisk in flour and keep whisking for 30 seconds to form a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Serve it up

Once your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are out of the oven, drizzle them generously with the creamy sauce. The cheesy garlic sauce complements the meat perfectly, creating a meal that’s irresistibly comforting.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that beautifully contrasts the richness of the meatloaves and sauce. A little extra grated Parmesan also works wonders if you’re a cheese lover.

Side Dishes

These meatloaves pair wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The creamy Parmesan sauce ties everything together, making even basic sides feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves on toasted garlic bread or split them open like sliders with a dollop of sauce and fresh greens inside. They also make a fantastic protein-packed topping for salads or grain bowls, transforming your meal into a vibrant, balanced plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for an easy, flavorful lunch or quick dinner option that heats up beautifully.

Freezing

These meatloaves freeze very well. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months, so you always have a delicious homemade meal on hand.

Reheating

Reheat thawed meatloaves gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat in short bursts to keep them juicy. Don’t forget to warm up your Parmesan garlic sauce separately to drizzle on top.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey will work wonderfully in this recipe and will provide a similar texture and flavor profile while keeping the dish light and healthy.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and use gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce. The recipe adapts nicely without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare the meatloaves without the sauce?

You can serve the meatloaves on their own, but the garlic Parmesan sauce really elevates them, adding creaminess and an extra layer of flavor that’s well worth the little extra effort.

How can I tell when the meatloaves are fully cooked?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.

Can I make these ahead of time and bake later?

Yes! You can shape the meatloaves and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to bake them fully before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves have quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals for their amazing flavor and comforting vibe. With a few simple ingredients and an easy preparation, you’re set to create a dish that feels lovingly homemade every single time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and bring this warm, cheesy goodness into your kitchen!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves recipe offers a flavorful, healthy twist on traditional meatloaf using lean ground chicken, fresh garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese. Baked to juicy perfection and topped with a creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, it makes for a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, 2 cloves minced garlic, grated onion, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated without overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape Meatloaves: Form the mixture into small individual meatloaves or evenly divide the mixture into the muffin tin cups for uniform cooking.
Bake: Place the shaped meatloaves in the oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and juicy.
Prepare Sauce: While meatloaves are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and whisk continuously for 30 seconds to form a roux.
Thicken Sauce: Gradually add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Once meatloaves are done, plate them and spoon the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

You can substitute dried parsley for fresh if unavailable, but fresh will give better flavor.
Ensure not to overmix the meat mixture to maintain a tender texture.
Make sure the internal temperature of meatloaves reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need the recipe to be gluten-free.
The sauce should be stirred continuously to avoid lumps and burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American