Envision this: a warm kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of Italian herbs and melted cheese.
Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, combining the ease of a classic meatloaf with the rich flavors of a beloved pasta dish.
As it bakes, the cheese bubbles to golden perfection, and the marinara sauce seeps into the tender ground chicken.
Let’s bring this delightful dish to life.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 loaf pan
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 whisk
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf, follow this timeline:
- Reading and Gathering Ingredients (5 minutes)
- Take a few minutes to read through the recipe and gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
- Preparation (10 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Shaping and Initial Baking (35 minutes)
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Final Baking (15 minutes)
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining marinara sauce over it.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Resting Time (10 minutes)
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Adjust any steps as needed based on your personal cooking speed and preferences.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
Spread half of the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and spread remaining marinara sauce over the meatloaf.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Tips
- Garlic Bread: A classic Italian side that complements the flavors of the meatloaf and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Offers a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich, cheesy meatloaf.
- Steamed Vegetables: A healthy accompaniment to balance the heartiness of the dish.
- Pasta: Traditional spaghetti or penne tossed with olive oil or a light marinara sauce enhances the Italian theme.
- Mashed Potatoes: Provides a creamy and comforting side that pairs well with the savory meatloaf.
Storage
To store Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Alternatively, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Freezing
To freeze Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover the meatloaf with foil to retain moisture.
Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish.
By combining ground chicken with traditional Parmesan flavors, you create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
The use of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese adds layers of taste and texture that perfectly complement the meatloaf.
This recipe isn’t only easy to follow but also allows for some flexibility, such as substituting ground turkey if desired.
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of under an hour, it’s a convenient option for a weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, this Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf is bound to become a favorite at your table.
Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of creating a hearty, homemade dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs in This Recipe?
You can definitely use gluten-free breadcrumbs in this recipe. They’ll still provide the necessary texture and binding. Just make sure they’re seasoned well. This substitution keeps the dish inclusive without compromising its delicious, hearty essence.
What Can I Serve Alongside Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf?
You can elevate your meal by serving creamy garlic mashed potatoes and a crisp Caesar salad. Their flavors harmonize perfectly, creating a delightful Italian-inspired feast that’ll have everyone savoring every bite. Don’t forget a glass of Chianti!
How Do I Know if the Meatloaf Is Fully Cooked?
You’ll know the meatloaf is fully cooked when it reaches a succulent 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the aroma will entice you with hints of herbs and melted cheese.
Can I Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Mix your aromatic ingredients, let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight, then bake the next day. This allows the spices to infuse, enhancing your culinary masterpiece.
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative to This Meatloaf?
You’ll impress with a vegetarian twist! Swap ground chicken for hearty lentils or chickpeas, blending them with breadcrumbs and spices. Enrich the flavors with roasted veggies and a dash of smoked paprika for a fascinating culinary experience.
Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Loaf pan
- 1 Small saucepan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup parsley chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread remaining marinara sauce over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
