Hey there, Jason Griffith here! When you think of meatloaf, you probably think of a classic beef version with a ketchup glaze. But today, I’m shaking things up with a new and exciting twist: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Stack. This recipe is a game-changer. It’s a savory, flavorful, and incredibly moist meatloaf made with ground chicken, and it’s packed with a delicious blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese. The best part? You can make them as individual stacks, which cook faster and are perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is a lifesaver on a busy night. Ground chicken is a great, lean protein, and when you combine it with the savory flavors of garlic, onion, and Parmesan, it becomes a seriously delicious meal. Making them in individual stacks or mini loaves means they cook up in a fraction of the time of a traditional meatloaf, which is a huge bonus. The garlic and Parmesan create a rich, savory flavor that’s just irresistible. It’s a classic comfort food reinvented in the best way possible. For another easy and flavorful chicken meal, you should also check out my recipe for easy cheese-stuffed chicken wontons.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Chicken: I like to use ground chicken for a leaner meatloaf, but you can also use ground turkey or a mix of ground pork and chicken.
- Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs are great, but panko breadcrumbs would give you a lighter texture. You can also use crushed crackers for a different flavor.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is best for its flavor, but you can also use pre-grated. A little bit of shredded mozzarella would also be a great addition to the inside of the loaf.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a beautiful fresh flavor. You can also use dried parsley, or a tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning for a more classic Italian flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix all ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meat tough.
- Form into stacks: Take a portion of the meat mixture and form it into a small loaf or a stack. You can make them as mini individual loaves, or one big loaf. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the meatloaf stacks rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist and flavorful. You can serve them with a simple garlic butter or your favorite sauce.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the ground chicken can make the meatloaf tough and dense. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
- Moisture is Key: Ground chicken can be a bit drier than ground beef, so the egg and milk are crucial for a moist and tender result.
- Serve with a Sauce: A simple sauce or glaze is the perfect finishing touch. You can use a classic ketchup-based glaze, a garlic butter, or even a mushroom gravy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These meatloaf stacks are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides.
- Serve them with creamy mashed potatoes and a simple side of steamed green beans.
- A side of my classic spaghetti would be a perfect complement.
- For a fun twist, you can serve them with a side of my light and tangy chicken salad with no mayo on a different night.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store any leftover meatloaf stacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy-to-make dinners, check out some of these other favorites:
- Dorito Casserole: An easy and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family.
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole: My favorite one-pan dinner that’s always a hit and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Easy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons: A fun, golden, and crunchy appetizer that’s a total crowd-pleaser.
- Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce: A timeless classic that’s a perfect weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Stack is a testament to the fact that classic comfort food can be reinvented in a way that’s both delicious and easy. It’s a fun, simple, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a new favorite in your kitchen. As always, I’d love to hear from you, so leave a comment below with your thoughts and any fun twists you tried. Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Stack: A Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Form the mixture into individual stacks or patties.
- Place the stacks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful twist on meatloaf!
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