Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: A Cheesy, easy Dinner

Q: What cheese is used in chicken parmesan?

Traditionally, Parmesan is the star, but mozzarella is often added for that melty, gooey layer (and we’re doing both here!). Some versions even throw in provolone or fontina for extra flair.

Jump to Recipe

We’ve all been there. It’s 5:45 p.m., everyone’s “starving,” and you’ve got just enough energy to either reheat something questionable or—plot twist—make a comforting, cheesy dish that tastes like love in loaf form. That’s where this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf swoops in like the dinnertime hero you didn’t know you needed.

Juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this twist on the classic meatloaf swaps beef for ground chicken and throws in garlic and gooey cheese for a flavor upgrade that even your meatloaf skeptics will love. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels fancy but takes less effort than convincing your toddler to try a vegetable.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Let’s be real—meatloaf has a bit of a reputation. It’s the thing you had to eat growing up, not something you want to make now. But this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf ? Whole different story.

✔️ It’s chicken-forward. Healthier and leaner than beef, ground chicken is a great option for those trying to lighten things up.

✔️ Packed with flavor. We’re talking fresh garlic, two kinds of cheese, and Italian herbs that make your kitchen smell like a cozy little trattoria.

✔️ Great for leftovers. Because there’s something magical about a meatloaf sandwich the next day.

✔️ Kid-approved. The cheesy topping and mild chicken flavor make this a win for picky palates.

Ingredients For perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need for this chicken meat loaf masterpiece:

1½ lbs ground chicken
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
¼ cup milk
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Let’s get to the good part. This recipe is super straightforward—even if you’re multitasking dinner with homework help and answering texts from your group chat.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (because this meatloaf deserves to be treated right). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. (Your future self will thank you.)

Step 2: Mix the Magic

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan , mozzarella, garlic, egg, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon—whichever feels less emotionally triggering—to mix until everything’s evenly combined.

Step 3: Form the Loaf

Press the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with the back of a spoon. Bonus points if you pretend you’re on a cooking show while you do it.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F and the top starts getting golden and irresistible.

Step 5: Add That cheese Blanket

A few minutes before it’s done, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top and return it to the oven just until it melts into a bubbly cheese layer. You could skip this step, but…why?

Step 6: Rest & Garnish

Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing (so it holds together like a champ). Sprinkle with chopped parsley for that fresh, fancy finish.

Tips to Make Your Chicken Meat Loaf Even Better

No mozzarella? Use provolone or even a sprinkle of cheddar. Cheese is forgiving.
Make it ahead. You can assemble the loaf in the morning and pop it in the fridge until dinner time.
Want extra crisp? Bake it free-form on a lined baking sheet for more golden edges.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with golden, bubbly cheese and fresh parsley in a baking pan, sliced and ready to serve. — Sliced and smothered in melty mozzarella, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the ultimate cheesy comfort food—topped with fresh parsley for the perfect finishing touch.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, my kids were immediately suspicious—until they saw that gooey cheese layer. Then it became one of those “can we have this every week?” meals. And honestly? I didn’t mind one bit. It’s easy, comforting, and just fancy enough to feel like a win—even on the messiest of Mondays.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the loaf earlier in the day and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Leftovers also keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! It works great with turkey, too—just keep an eye on moisture levels since turkey can be slightly drier.

Can I freeze this chicken meat loaf?

Yes! After baking and cooling, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in foil and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What temperature should a chicken meatloaf be?

Your chicken meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. That’s the food-safe sweet spot to make sure it’s fully cooked but still juicy and tender.

What to serve with chicken parmesan meatloaf?

So many tasty options! Go classic with garlic mashed potatoes, keep it light with a crisp Caesar salad, or serve it with roasted veggies and some crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.

What cheese is used in chicken parmesan?

Traditionally, Parmesan is the star, but mozzarella is often added for that melty, gooey layer (and we’re doing both here!). Some versions even throw in provolone or fontina for extra flair.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the perfect answer to “What’s for dinner?” when you need something warm, delicious, and easy to love. With its cheesy top, savory garlic flavor, and juicy chicken goodness, it just might become a weekly staple in your home too.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to snap a pic—I love seeing your takes on these recipes! 💛

Craving More Cozy Chicken Comforts?

If you’re looking to keep the comfort food coming, here are some must-try recipes that pair beautifully with the vibes of our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: Creamy, cheesy, and peppery with just a hint of sweetness—this is mac and cheese all grown up and chicken-ified.
Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: Pure comfort on a plate. Think Thanksgiving flavors… but on a Tuesday.
🍳Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Rich, buttery, and seared to perfection in a skillet—this dish brings steakhouse vibes straight to your table.
🧄Melted Mozzarella and Ranch Chicken Bombs: Exploding with cheesy ranch goodness, these are a hit with both kids and grown-ups (and they make killer leftovers, too).

Save these for later or dive right in—your weeknight dinner rotation just got a delicious upgrade! 🍽️✨