Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of roasted garlic simmering on the stovetop can instantly transport me to my childhood kitchen, where comfort food reigned supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on a classic favorite: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. Not only are these little beauties a fantastic option for meal prep, but they’re also gluten-free friendly if you swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs. Each tender, juicy meatloaf is infused with savory garlic and topped with a creamy Parmesan sauce that elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an easy weeknight meal, these meatloaves are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as satisfying as it is simple? Let’s get cooking! Why Will You Love This Meatloaf? Comforting, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves combine nostalgia with modern flavors, offering a perfect family meal. Easy preparation makes them ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep; simply mix the ingredients and bake! Flavor-packed, the garlic and Parmesan elevate this dish, ensuring each bite is deliciously memorable. Plus, they’re versatile—serve alongside mashed potatoes or zucchini noodles for a complete meal. For a spicy twist, try adding red pepper flakes or enjoy with the creamy garlic sauce from your favorite Fiery Chicken Ramen for extra zest! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Ingredients For the Meatloaf Ground Chicken – The main protein source for juicy meatloaves; opt for 90-93% lean for moisture. Fresh Garlic – Adds bold flavor throughout both the meat and the sauce; fresh cloves are best for authenticity. Parmesan Cheese – Enhances richness and umami flavor, providing a delightful saltiness. Breadcrumbs – Binds the meatloaf; use plain or Italian breadcrumbs for extra flavor, and consider gluten-free for a dietary option. Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the meatloaves intact during baking. Onion (grated or finely chopped) – Brings sweetness and depth to the flavor; always a great choice for meat dishes. Parsley (fresh or dried) – Gives color and freshness, uplifting the overall dish. For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce Butter – Adds richness to the sauce, creating a velvety texture. Flour – Used to create a roux, thickening the sauce perfectly. Milk – Essential for developing a creamy consistency; whole milk works best for richness. Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth to the sauce; ensure it’s freshly grated for better melting and flavor. Seasoning Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile. Black Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth; adjust to taste. Italian Seasoning – Infuses a burst of herbaceous notes, complementing the meatloaf wonderfully. This comforting dish of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves is bound to warm your heart and please your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing a muffin tin for perfect portioned meatloaves. This step is essential for ensuring that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves bake evenly and release easily after cooking. Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, grated onion, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to gently mix these ingredients until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough meatloaves. The goal is to maintain moisture while ensuring that all the flavors meld perfectly together in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. Step 3: Shape the Meatloaves Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small meatloaves or spoon it into muffin cups for a more uniform baking process. Each meatloaf should be about the size of a small palm. This method not only looks great on the plate but also helps them cook evenly, giving you that nice golden-brown exterior and juicy interior. Step 4: Bake the Meatloaves Place the formed meatloaves in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. They are ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking, which can dry out your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. Step 5: Prepare the Sauce While the meatloaves bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Gradually whisk in flour to form a roux, followed by slowly adding milk to avoid lumps, stirring until the mixture thickens. Finally, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once the meatloaves are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. To serve, drizzle each meatloaf with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are now ready to be enjoyed at your family table! Make Ahead Options These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape them into loaves up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain quality, ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. On the day you plan to serve, simply bake the meatloaves straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. Don’t forget to prepare the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce while the meatloaves are baking, and you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food with minimal effort! What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves? Elevate your dining experience by pairing these flavorful meatloaves with complementary sides that delight the senses. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory meatloaf, soaking up the delicious garlic cream sauce. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring earthy sweetness and vibrant colors to your plate, balancing the richness of the meatloaf while adding texture. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that adds crunch and a hint of freshness to each bite. Crisp Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing a bright and crunchy contrast to the decadence of the meatloaf. Garlic Bread: For those who adore garlic, a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread can’t be beaten! It’s perfect for mopping up extra sauce. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Pinot Noir, enhances the flavors of both the meatloaf and the garlic cream sauce beautifully. Every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves deserves a delightful partner to create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Variations Feel free to get creative with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Let’s explore some delightful options! Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for chicken for a leaner alternative without compromising flavor. This change offers a slightly different taste, perfect for turkey lovers. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the mixture or sauce for a delightful, spicy surprise. This twist brings an extra layer of warmth, elevating your meatloaf experience. Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile. Each herb will provide a unique twist, enhancing the dish’s aroma and taste. Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy center. This addition adds a delightful surprise that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. It’s a simple swap that maintains the meatloaf’s integrity without compromising taste. Consider serving these meatloaves with something comforting, like mashed potatoes, or even with a side of Fiery Chicken Ramen for an adventurous twist on your meal. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter meal, swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. This swap keeps it fresh and low-carb while complementing the flavorful meatloaves beautifully. Sweet Addition: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers for a sweet crunch. This not only adds color but also a delightful textural contrast that enhances each bite. Feel inspired to mix and match these variations—you may just find your family’s new favorite twist! Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for ground chicken that’s 90-93% lean to ensure moisture. Leaner meat can dry out quickly, making your meatloaves less enjoyable. Avoid Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, mix gently until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatloaves instead of tender, juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. Use a Muffin Tin: For even portioning and baking, spoon the mixture into a greased muffin tin. This method helps maintain uniform cooking and prevents sogginess. Check the Temp: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that internal temperatures reach 165°F (74°C). This guarantees food safety and perfect doneness without overbaking. Make-ahead Option: You can prepare the meat mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container to save time on busy nights. Personalize the Sauce: Feel free to enrich the garlic Parmesan cream sauce with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meatloaves! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Fridge: Store cooled Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep them sealed to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each meatloaf in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the meatloaves overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for quick results. Reheating: To reheat, place the meatloaves in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Add a drizzle of sauce to keep them moist! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ground chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For the juiciest Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves, opt for ground chicken that’s 90-93% lean. This blend provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist, while avoiding the risk of drying out. Avoid super lean ground chicken, as it may result in tougher meatloaves. What’s the best way to store leftover meatloaves? Very easy! Allow your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure they are sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent the meatloaves from drying out. Can I freeze these meatloaves for later use? Absolutely! To freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves, individually wrap each cooled meatloaf in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quicker meal. What if my meatloaves don’t hold their shape while baking? Not to worry! If your meatloaves are crumbling, it’s likely due to insufficient binding. Make sure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and the egg as a binder. If you find the mixture too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help them keep their shape. Also, consider cooking them in a muffin tin for more structure during baking. Are these meatloaves gluten-free? Yes, they can be! To make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors without compromising on dietary needs. Always double-check labels to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are used. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture? Very much so! Add-ins like grated carrots, zucchini, or finely chopped bell peppers not only add nutritional value but also moisture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the quantity so that the consistency remains right for forming meatloaves. Adding about half a cup of finely grated vegetables should work wonders! Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves for Comfort Food Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves offer a comforting twist on a classic favorite, perfect for meal prep and gluten-free friendly. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 meatloavesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatloaf1 pound Ground Chicken Opt for 90-93% lean for moisture.3 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated.1 cup Breadcrumbs Plain or Italian; consider gluten-free.1 large Egg Acts as a binder.1/2 cup Onion Grated or finely chopped.2 tablespoons Parsley Fresh or dried.For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce4 tablespoons Butter3 tablespoons Flour1 cup Milk Whole milk works best.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated.Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Equipment Baking SheetMixing Bowlmuffin tinsaucepan Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken MeatloavesPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a muffin tin.In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, grated onion, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.Shape the mixture into small meatloaves or spoon it into muffin cups.Bake for 22-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the tops are golden brown.In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté minced garlic, add flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thick. Stir in Parmesan until melted.Serve meatloaves drizzled with sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1meatloafCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use 90-93% lean ground chicken and avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!