Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

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This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf puts a delicious twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Tender ground chicken is seasoned with Italian herbs and loaded with shredded Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection and finished with a marinara glaze that adds both color and flavor. It’s juicy, cheesy, and so easy to throw together.

If you’re looking for a meatloaf recipe that won’t dry out and has a little something extra, this one might just become your new favorite. It’s family-friendly, ideal for meal prep, and pairs beautifully with veggies, pasta, or even a crisp green salad. Say goodbye to boring meatloaf nights!

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the kind of recipe that gives you all the flavor with none of the fuss. It bakes in under an hour, fills your kitchen with mouthwatering smells, and slices like a dream. The grated Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy bite to every forkful, while the marinara on top gives it a pizza-meets-meatloaf vibe that kids and adults can both get behind. Plus, using ground chicken lightens things up a bit without sacrificing that hearty, satisfying feel.

What Kind of Ground Chicken Should I Use?

When making chicken meatloaf, go for ground chicken that includes both dark and white meat if possible. This helps keep the texture tender and juicy. If your store only offers extra-lean ground chicken breast, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg yolk to keep things moist. Avoid ground chicken that looks too watery or overly processed, as it can affect both texture and flavor.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This chicken meatloaf comes together with simple, flavorful ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a role in making the meatloaf juicy, savory, and perfectly seasoned.

Ground chicken provides a lighter base compared to beef but still offers a hearty texture.

Grated Parmesan cheese adds saltiness, umami, and a cheesy richness throughout the loaf.

Italian seasoning gives that classic herbaceous flavor we associate with comfort food.

Minced garlic brings warmth and aroma to each bite.

Breadcrumbs help bind everything together while adding structure.

Egg is the essential binder that holds the meatloaf from falling apart.

Salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors.

Marinara sauce adds moisture and a sweet-tangy finish when brushed on top.

How To Make the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. This ensures easy cleanup and helps the meatloaf bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat or it can become dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or press it into the loaf pan. Bake for about 35 minutes, then remove from the oven.

Step 4: Add Marinara and Finish Baking

Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and return it to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those delicious juices where they belong.

Serving and Storing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This meatloaf serves about 6 people, making it perfect for a small dinner party or for meal prepping your lunches for the week. Leftovers reheat beautifully, keeping their moisture and flavor.

To store, wrap cooled slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What to Serve With Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic complement the Italian vibes of the meatloaf.

Sauteed Green Beans with Almonds

Crisp green beans with toasted almonds bring texture and freshness to your plate.

Caesar Salad

A cool, crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing balances the warmth of the meatloaf.

Creamy Polenta

Swap out mashed potatoes for polenta for a smooth, cheesy side dish that pairs beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up any extra marinara on the plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A slightly bitter, caramelized veggie helps cut through the richness of the meatloaf.

Italian Pasta Salad

Cold and refreshing, it’s a great contrast to the hot and savory main dish.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, you’ll probably enjoy these comforting chicken dishes next:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with a luscious, cheesy sauce.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that comes together fast.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a hearty, family-friendly classic.
• Chicken Parmesan if you’re craving crispy and cheesy.
• Best Chicken and Rice Casserole that brings all the comfort in one dish.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mozzarella or keep it all Parmesan? Did you sneak in some spinach or swap in turkey instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated healthy, comforting dinners on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for weeknight meals: Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

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