Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf hits all the right notes. Packed with juicy ground chicken, aromatic garlic, and the irresistible creaminess of Parmesan cheese, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting classic everyone will love. The key to perfect baking is to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil, ensuring your meatloaf cooks evenly without sticking. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this savory delight!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you’ll gather a small but mighty collection of ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building the rich flavors, tender texture, and beautiful golden crust that make this dish unforgettable.

• Ground chicken: The lean and tender protein base that keeps the meatloaf juicy and light.
• Panko bread crumbs: These add just the right amount of texture and help bind the mixture for perfect slicing.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that enriches every bite and a lovely topping crisp.
• Milk: Moisturizes the meat mixture, making each slice tender and easy to chew.
• Large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold everything together without being heavy.
• Garlic cloves: Minced and sautéed to infuse the meatloaf with its iconic aromatic punch.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and greasing the pan to avoid sticking.
• Dried Italian seasoning: Adds an herbal warmth and complexity to the mix.
• Salt and black pepper: Classic seasonings to highlight all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh, green note and beautiful color.
• Chicken broth: Poured into the pan to keep the meatloaf moist during baking.
• Butter: Melted and combined with garlic powder for a luscious topping glaze.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in the final topping layer.

How to Make Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together milk and lightly beaten eggs in a large mixing bowl. This liquid base is crucial for keeping your meatloaf tender and moist rather than dry.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, gently fold in the panko bread crumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined to maintain a light texture.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Heat your olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for one to two minutes until fragrant. This step unlocks the full garlicky aroma that will permeate your meatloaf.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Parsley

Pour the garlic and olive oil mixture into the bowl along with freshly chopped parsley. These fresh green herbs add brightness to balance the richness.

Step 5: Add Ground Chicken

Gently fold in the ground chicken, taking care not to over-mix, which keeps the meatloaf light and tender.

Step 6: Preheat Oven to 350°F (175°C)

While you prep the meat mixture, set your oven to the perfect temperature for even cooking and a golden crust.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Dish by Lightly Greasing

This is a vital step: lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and ensures your meatloaf will release effortlessly after baking.

Step 8: Shape Meatloaf in the Loaf Pan

Transfer your mixture gently into the prepared pan and press it down into an even loaf shape. This guides the meatloaf to cook uniformly and slice easily.

Step 9: Create Garlic Butter Topping

Mix melted butter with garlic powder in a small bowl. This simple topping adds a golden, flavorful crust that enhances every bite.

Step 10: Brush Meatloaf with Garlic Butter

Brush the buttery garlic mixture all over the top of your meatloaf, prepping it for its final flavor boost in the oven.

Step 11: Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

Generously sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. This not only adds an irresistible crust but elevates the savory goodness.

Step 12: Add Chicken Broth to the Pan

Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the loaf pan, but not over the meatloaf. This invaluable step keeps the meatloaf moist and juicy during its hour-long bake.

Step 13: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

Step 14: Check for Doneness and Rest

Make sure the juices run clear when you pierce the meatloaf with a fork. Then remove from the oven and let it rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for even tastier slices.

Step 15: Slice and Serve

After resting, carefully slice your meatloaf into even portions and get ready to enjoy all the garlicky, cheesy comfort in every forkful.

How to Serve Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil

Garnishes

A handful of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese makes a beautiful, simple garnish. It adds a fresh pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted veggies for a classic homestyle meal. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette also cuts through the richness beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices stacked on toasted artisan bread as an open-faced sandwich, or chop leftover meatloaf to mix into pasta or eggs for a delightful twist. Remember to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil when baking future batches to keep cleanup easy and the loaf intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days, making a quick and delicious next-day lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a simple meal ready when you are.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. Cover loosely with foil if using the oven to keep moisture locked in and flavors fresh. Don’t forget that next batch? Always lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil for perfect results every time.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even a mix can be used, but keep in mind that cooking times and fat content might vary. Stick to the same lightly greasing a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil technique to prevent sticking.

Is there a substitute for panko bread crumbs?

You can use regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers if you don’t have panko on hand. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still provide great binding for your meatloaf.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil before shaping and baking the next day for the best results.

What should I do if my meatloaf sticks to the pan?

This usually means the pan wasn’t greased enough. Always lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil before adding the mixture to ensure easy release.

Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs, and double-check your seasonings and broth. The method remains the same—don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil for perfect baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a well-made meatloaf, especially when it’s bursting with garlic and Parmesan goodness. I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe and experience just how rewarding it is to lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil and tuck this savory masterpiece into your oven. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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