Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves: A Savory Delight

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a fantastic twist on the classic meatloaf, combining tender ground chicken with rich Parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, these mini loaves are flavorful, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
3. Add Milk: Stir in the milk until the mixture is well blended.
4. Shape Loaves: Form the mixture into four mini loaves and place them on a baking sheet.
5. Add Oil and Cheese: Drizzle the top of each meatloaf with olive oil. If desired, sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaves reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Use different types of cheese, like cheddar or Swiss, instead of Parmesan or mozzarella.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or basil for a unique flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the texture may not be as ideal.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   • Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken.
2. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   • You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even skip the cheese if necessary.
3. Can I make these meatloaves ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare and shape the meatloaves a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
4. How do I know when the meatloaves are done?
   • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
5. Can I freeze these meatloaves?
   • Yes, freeze them before baking. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and bake from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
6. Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
   • Yes, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
7. How long should I let the meatloaves rest?
   • Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
8. Can I make these meatloaves in a different size?
   • Absolutely, you can make them larger or smaller, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
9. What can I serve with these meatloaves?
   • These meatloaves pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
10. Can I use a different type of oil?
    • Yes, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil instead of olive oil if you prefer.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves offer a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf recipes. With their savory blend of Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, they provide a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these mini loaves are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich taste and versatility of this delicious recipe!

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