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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Irresistible Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with Mozzarella Center

A comforting Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf featuring a gooey mozzarella center, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for variation.
  • 1 cup Onion (finely diced) Shallots can be used for a milder twist.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced) Fresh is best, powdered can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Swap with ground turkey or lean beef if desired.
  • 1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs Using plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning works perfectly.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Almond milk is a great dairy-free substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Try nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
  • 1 large Egg A flax egg serves as a great vegan substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Basil can replace it for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning A homemade mix could elevate your dish further.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Opt for homemade or your favorite store-bought variety.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs You can use regular breadcrumbs, though they will be less crispy.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) For garnish and a delicious flavor boost.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (melted) Consider olive oil for a healthier version.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped) For a sprinkle of freshness and color on top.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a foil-lined baking sheet.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Allow cooling slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, the cooled onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape two-thirds of the mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet. Make a well in the center, tuck in mozzarella sticks, and cover with remaining mixture.
  5. Spread marinara sauce over the top, ensuring it is evenly covered. Bake for approximately 45 minutes.
  6. Mix panko, extra Parmesan, melted butter, and parsley for the topping. After 45 minutes, sprinkle it over the meatloaf.
  7. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, cool sautéed ingredients before mixing and avoid overmixing the meatloaf for a delicate texture.

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