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 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. Let this cool completely.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, egg, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Pat two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 20cm x 10cm. Arrange the mozzarella cheese string pieces down the centre, then top with the remaining chicken mixture. Shape into a proper 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, Parmesan, melted butter, and fresh parsley for the topping.

Step 7: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top with the shredded mozzarella, then sprinkle over the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 8: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden and the centre reaches 74°C (165°F).

Step 9: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a mild kick.

Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of seasoned if you prefer to control salt and seasoning levels.

Substitute ground turkey if you want a lower-fat alternative to ground chicken.

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can use cheeses like provolone, fontina, or cheddar for different flavors, but mozzarella’s meltiness works best for the gooey center and topping.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). The meatloaf should be firm, with juices running clear when cut.