If you love classic meatloaf but want something a little lighter and packed with Italian-inspired flavors, then Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the perfect dish for you. This recipe swaps out traditional beef for lean ground chicken, creating a moist, tender, and flavorful meatloaf that’s anything but boring. With the bold flavors of Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and a tangy marinara glaze, this dish delivers all the comfort of traditional meatloaf with a fresh new twist.
This family-friendly, easy-to-make meal is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even a cozy weekend dinner. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from garlic mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Ready to bring a little Italian flair to your next meal? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
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Lighter Than Traditional Meatloaf – Made with lean ground chicken, it’s healthier yet still incredibly juicy.
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Packed with Flavor – Parmesan, Italian herbs, and marinara sauce add bold, rich taste.
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Moist and Tender – No dry, dense meatloaf here—this version stays perfectly juicy.
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Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, Italian-inspired flavors.
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Easy to Make Ahead – Prep it in advance and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
Preparation Time and Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 50 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Yield: 6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Protein: 36g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 4g
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
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1 ½ pounds ground chicken
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon dried basil
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
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¼ cup milk
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½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, milk, marinara sauce, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. If using a loaf pan, press the mixture evenly into the pan.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Topping
After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread an extra ¼ cup of marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Ingredient Background
Ground chicken is an excellent lean protein alternative to ground beef, making this meatloaf a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Chicken has a mild taste, which allows it to soak up seasonings and spices, making every bite flavorful. Since ground chicken can sometimes be drier than beef, adding breadcrumbs, milk, and marinara sauce helps keep it moist and tender.
Parmesan cheese plays a dual role in this recipe—it adds a rich, nutty flavor while also helping to bind the ingredients together. Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that intensifies the umami taste of the meatloaf, making it more robust and savory.
Marinara sauce brings a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese. The sauce not only flavors the mixture but also creates a delicious, caramelized topping when baked. The addition of mozzarella cheese on top further enhances the dish, providing that gooey, melty texture that makes this meal irresistible.
Technique Tips for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
A key step in ensuring a moist and tender meatloaf is not overmixing the ingredients. When you mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, stir just until combined—overworking the mixture can result in a dense, tough texture.
Baking the meatloaf on a lined baking sheet instead of a loaf pan allows for better air circulation, which helps achieve a more even cook. If using a loaf pan, ensure you don’t pack the meat too tightly, as this can also lead to a denser final product.
For a beautifully browned top, broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will give the cheese a slightly crispy texture while intensifying the flavors of the marinara glaze. Be sure to watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Alternative Presentation Ideas
For a mini version of this dish, shape the meat mixture into individual muffin-sized portions and bake them in a muffin tin. These Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Muffins cook faster and are great for portion control.
Another fun twist is turning this into a stuffed meatloaf. Before shaping the mixture, lay it flat, then place a layer of sliced mozzarella cheese and spinach in the center. Roll it up and bake as usual for a melty, cheesy surprise inside.
If you’re hosting a dinner and want a fancier presentation, serve slices of the meatloaf over a bed of garlic butter spaghetti or alongside roasted vegetables for a plated restaurant-style dish. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan shavings for an elegant touch.
Freezing and Storing Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Refrigeration
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
Freezing Uncooked Meatloaf
To freeze before baking, shape the meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Freezing Cooked Meatloaf
If freezing after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then slice it into portions. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Healthier Twist Ideas
For a lower-carb version, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. This maintains the binding effect while keeping the dish keto-friendly.
If you want a dairy-free option, swap out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative. The dish will still have a rich, cheesy flavor without any dairy.
To add more hidden vegetables, mix in finely chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach. These veggies add extra nutrients and moisture without overpowering the flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Events
For a family-style dinner, serve the meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and buttered green beans. The richness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the Italian flavors of the meatloaf.
If you’re making this for meal prep, slice the meatloaf and pack it with roasted veggies or a small side of quinoa. This makes for a protein-packed, balanced meal that’s easy to grab during the week.
For a casual dinner party, turn this into Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Sliders! Serve mini meatloaf slices on toasted brioche buns with a drizzle of marinara and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a fun and delicious twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and will give you a similar light and tender texture.
2. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, almond flour, or panko for a slightly different texture.
3. How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
4. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, shape it into a loaf, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.
5. What sauce works best for topping?
Marinara sauce is the best choice, but you can also use pesto, garlic butter, or a balsamic glaze for a unique flavor.
6. How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure you use the correct ratio of breadcrumbs, egg, and liquid to bind everything together. Also, let it rest before slicing.
7. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Shape the meat mixture into smaller loaves and cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
8. Can I add extra cheese?
Of course! Mixing in extra shredded mozzarella into the meat mixture makes it even cheesier and more delicious.
9. How do I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or swap them for crushed cornflakes or ground flaxseed.
10. What sides pair well with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
Garlic bread, roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a simple Caesar salad all make perfect pairings.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious, comforting twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with savory Italian flavors, tender and moist, and topped with a melty mozzarella crust that makes every bite irresistible.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with easy make-ahead and freezing options, it’s a stress-free meal that fits any schedule.
Try this cheesy, flavorful meatloaf today, and enjoy a new favorite twist on a classic dish!
Print
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
Add the egg, milk, marinara sauce, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. If using a loaf pan, press the mixture evenly into the pan.
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread an extra ¼ cup of marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g