Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe for Dinner Joy

Crispy garlic parmesan chicken meatloaves combine comfort and sophistication in one delectable dish.

Savory ingredients dance together, creating a meal that feels like a warm culinary embrace.

Packed with rich flavors, these meatloaves promise a delightful twist on traditional recipes.

Home cooks can easily craft this impressive centerpiece with simple pantry staples.

Mediterranean herbs and sharp parmesan cheese elevate the classic protein into something extraordinary.

Cheese lovers and health-conscious eaters alike will appreciate the balanced nutrition and incredible taste.

You won’t be able to resist serving these golden-brown meatloaves to eager dinner companions.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Main Protein:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile protein base for the meatloaves that provides a light and healthy alternative to traditional beef.
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg: Work together to bind the meatloaf mixture and provide structure.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps create a golden crust.
Aromatics and Herbs:
  • Onion, Garlic: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic base for the meatloaves.
  • Parsley: Brings a fresh, bright herbal note to the dish.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall flavor of the meatloaves.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Creates the base for the garlic sauce.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth roux.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides richness and creates a creamy texture for the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor to the cream sauce.
Finishing Herbs:
  • Parsley: Adds a fresh garnish and bright flavor to the completed sauce.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Heat the oven to 375°F. Grab a muffin tin and give it a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Meatloaf Magic

Toss these goodies into a big mixing bowl:
  • Ground chicken
  • Diced onion
  • Pressed garlic
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Fresh parsley
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Mix everything together until the ingredients are best friends and completely combined.

Step 3: Shape and Nestle

Scoop the mixture into the muffin tin using a cookie scoop.

Gently form each portion into a cute little ball and press into the cups. For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some Parmesan on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tin into the oven for 22-25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden finish and internal temperature of 165°F.

Let the meatloaves chill in the pan for 5 minutes after baking.

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce

Warm olive oil in a small pan.

Toss in pressed garlic and let it dance for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Build the Roux Foundation

Sprinkle flour into the garlic-oil mixture.

Stir constantly for a minute until it turns a light golden color.

Step 7: Create Silky Sauce

Lower the heat and slowly pour in heavy cream.

Whisk like a pro to keep things smooth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 8: Finish with Cheesy Flair

Stir in Parmesan cheese and salt until melted and smooth. Pull off the heat and mix in fresh parsley for a final touch of freshness.

Pro Tips on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Pro Tips on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
  • Opt for fresh ground chicken with minimal fat for juicier, lighter meatloaves that won't dry out during baking.
  • Press excess moisture from onions before mixing to prevent soggy meatloaf texture and ensure proper binding.
  • Test doneness using a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches safe 165°F internal temperature without overcooking.
  • Create uniform meatloaves by using a cookie scoop for consistent portioning and even cooking throughout the muffin tin.
  • Enhance sauce richness by using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged alternatives for deeper, more complex flavor profiles.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Chicken Meatloaf Variations:
  • Turkey Transformation: Replace ground chicken with lean ground turkey for a similar protein-packed alternative with comparable texture and flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Veggie Meatloaves: Swap ground chicken for plant-based ground meat alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa mixed with egg replacer for binding.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs to accommodate wheat-sensitive diets.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace breadcrumbs with grated zucchini or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining moisture and texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Pairing Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
  • Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay to complement the rich garlic and Parmesan flavors, cutting through the creamy sauce with its bright acidity.
  • Create a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the meatloaves' richness, adding a zesty and refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
  • Prepare a colorful mix of roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, and butternut squash seasoned with herbs, providing a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment that echoes the garlic and Parmesan notes.

Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
  • Store leftover meatloaves in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they're completely cooled before sealing.
  • Wrap individual meatloaves tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place meatloaves on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

FAQs

FAQs
  • What makes the chicken meatloaves unique in this recipe?

These mini meatloaves are baked in a muffin tin, creating individual portions that are perfectly portioned and easy to serve.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute and will work well with the same seasonings and cooking method.

  • How do I know the meatloaves are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is safely cooked through.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs and flour. To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour alternative.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Overview

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Overview
  • Savor Quick Individual Portions: Mini meatloaves provide perfect single-serving sizes that make portioning and serving super simple for families or small gatherings.
  • Customize with Comfort: Packed with classic Parmesan and garlic flavors, these chicken meatloaves offer a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf with gourmet-style cream sauce that elevates home cooking.
  • Master Foolproof Technique: Baking in muffin tins ensures consistent cooking, preventing dry edges and guaranteeing moist, tender chicken meatloaves every single time with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Sauce Up the Experience: The creamy Parmesan sauce transforms basic chicken meatloaves into a restaurant-quality dish, adding richness and sophisticated flavor that makes this recipe feel extra special.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe


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4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic parmesan chicken meatloaves deliver comfort and flavor in one hearty dish. Crisp breadcrumbs, rich cheese, and tender meat combine for a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs 900g ground chicken
  • 3 oz 85g freshly grated parmesan cheese (for meatloaves)
  • 3 oz 85g freshly grated parmesan cheese (for cream sauce)
  • 10 garlic cloves (pressed or minced)
  • 3 garlic cloves (pressed or minced)
  • 1½ cups 360ml heavy whipping cream
  • ¾ cup 75g breadcrumbs (or 2 slices dense bread, crumbled)
  • ½ cup 75g finely diced yellow onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsps 5g freshly minced parsley
  • 1 tbsp 3g freshly minced parsley
  • 2 tbsps 30ml olive oil
  • 1 tbsp 8g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt (for meatloaves, adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp fine sea salt (for cream sauce, adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: extra freshly grated parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 375°F and lightly coating a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine ground chicken with aromatic ingredients like diced onion, pressed garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, ensuring thorough and even incorporation.
  3. Utilize a cookie scoop to divide the meat mixture into 12 uniform portions, gently forming each into a rounded shape and pressing into muffin tin cavities. Optionally dust additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
  4. Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, monitoring until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F and juices appear clear. Allow meatloaves to rest in the pan for 5 minutes after removing from oven.
  5. Create a garlic-infused oil by warming olive oil in a small saucepan and sautéing pressed garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
  6. Develop a roux by whisking flour into the garlic-infused oil, stirring constantly for one minute until achieving a light golden color.
  7. Transform the roux into a creamy sauce by gradually introducing heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slight thickening occurs.
  8. Finalize the sauce by melting Parmesan cheese into the mixture, seasoning with salt, and garnishing with fresh parsley before removing from heat.

Notes

  • Make sure ground chicken is fresh and cold for better binding and texture when mixing ingredients.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent tough and dense meatloaves that lose moisture quickly.
  • Test doneness by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for food safety.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed pork rinds for low-carb diets.
  • Use lean ground chicken breast for healthier version with reduced fat content.
  • Enhance flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture for extra depth.
  • Sauté onions before mixing to reduce raw onion flavor and improve overall taste profile.
  • Customize sauce by using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for lighter option.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 445 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 670 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 165 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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