Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of chicken parmesan and love the hearty texture of meatloaf, this recipe combines the best of both worlds. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, packed with Italian flavors, and topped with a savory marinara and melted cheese crust. It’s easy to prepare, bakes beautifully, and pairs well with a variety of sides—from pasta to roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chicken
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Marinara sauce
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan.
4. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional parmesan cheese over the sauce.
6. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired and serve with extra marinara sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6. Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a total cook time of approximately 45 minutes, including resting time.

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara for a kick.
• Cheesy Center: Stuff the middle of the loaf with extra mozzarella for a cheesy surprise.
• Low-Carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Mini Loaves: Form into individual mini loaves for faster baking and easy portioning.
• Turkey Substitute: Use ground turkey in place of ground chicken if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. This meatloaf also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well and delivers a similar texture and flavor.

How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?

Don’t overmix the meat, and be sure to bake just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Topping with marinara sauce also helps keep it moist.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the loaf and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.

What should I serve with chicken parmesan meatloaf?

It pairs well with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Do I need to cover the meatloaf while baking?

No, it bakes uncovered to allow the cheese topping to melt and brown nicely.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, a good quality jarred marinara works perfectly and saves time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How can I tell when it’s fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.

Can I add vegetables to the mixture?

Yes, finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or grated zucchini can be added for extra nutrients.

What kind of cheese is best for topping?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, while parmesan adds a sharp, salty flavor. A combination of both is ideal.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying twist on a traditional classic, perfect for when you want something hearty yet a little different. With tender ground chicken, Italian herbs, rich marinara, and cheesy goodness in every bite, this easy-to-make dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

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Chicken Parmesan meatloaf is a comforting mashup of Italian-style chicken parmesan and traditional meatloaf. Made with ground chicken, marinara, herbs, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for topping)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, 1/4 cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet or press into a loaf pan.
4. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and top with 3/4 cup marinara sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and 2 tbsp Parmesan.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve with extra marinara if desired.

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat to prevent a dense texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for doneness.
• Stuff the center with mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Use ground turkey if preferred.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of loaf
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 120mg