If you love traditional meatloaf but want a lighter, more flavorful version, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are about to become a new favorite. Juicy ground chicken combined with bold garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and aromatic Italian herbs makes for a delicious and wholesome meal that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prepping.
Unlike beef meatloaf, this chicken version is leaner, lighter, and quicker to cook, especially when made in individual portions. Pair it with a side of mashed cauliflower, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded dinner everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
- 🍗 Lean and protein-rich ground chicken keeps it light and satisfying
- 🧄 Garlic and parmesan add bold, cheesy, and savory flavor
- 🧑🍳 Mini meatloaf portions cook faster and make serving easier
- 🌿 Family-friendly and meal prep-approved
- 💡 Simple ingredients, big flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need
These meatloaves are made with real, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
For the Meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground chicken
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Topping:
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp melted butter mixed with minced garlic
- Extra parsley for garnish
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin for individual loaves.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaves
- Form the mixture into 6–8 small loaves or pack it into a muffin tin.
- Place loaves on the prepared baking sheet.
📝 Mini meatloaves cook faster and are great for portion control.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional)
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush loaves with garlic butter and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Return to oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
- Let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or more grated parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Meatloaves
✅ Use lean but not fat-free ground chicken to prevent dryness
✅ Grate fresh parmesan for better flavor and texture
✅ Don’t overmix the meat to keep the loaves light and juicy
✅ Add a splash of milk if the mixture feels too dry
✅ Make them in a muffin pan for quick, evenly cooked portions
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves with:
- 🥦 Roasted broccoli or green beans
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- 🥗 Caesar salad or chopped garden salad
- 🍝 Zucchini noodles with marinara
- 🍞 Garlic bread or low-carb dinner rolls
Variations & Substitutions
🧀 Cheddar Garlic Chicken Meatloaves:
Swap parmesan for shredded cheddar and increase garlic for bolder flavor.
🌶️ Spicy Chicken Meatloaf:
Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
🧅 French Onion Style:
Top with caramelized onions and melted Gruyère or Swiss.
🥬 Sneaky Veggie:
Mix in finely grated zucchini or chopped spinach for added nutrients.
🥓 Wrapped in Bacon:
Wrap mini loaves with half a strip of bacon before baking for a savory twist.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating
🧊 Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freezing:
- Freeze baked meatloaves for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
🔁 Reheating:
- Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Info (Per Mini Meatloaf, approx.)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 5g (or less with almond flour)
- Fat: 11g
- Sugar: <1g
🧮 Values may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.
Why These Meatloaves Work
- ✅ Comfort food made healthier with lean protein and lighter ingredients
- ✅ Big flavor from garlic, herbs, and cheese
- ✅ Quick-cooking, individually portioned servings
- ✅ Perfect for meal prep, freezing, or packed lunches
- ✅ Kid-friendly and easy to customize
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works well and offers a similar texture. Try to use a mix of dark and white meat to avoid dryness.
How do I make this low-carb or keto?
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds and skip sugary toppings or sauces.
What kind of cheese works best?
Parmesan gives great flavor and texture, but you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda depending on preference.
Can I make this into a large loaf?
Yes, form the mixture into one loaf and bake at 375°F for 45–55 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Final Thoughts: A Deliciously Light Comfort Food Option
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are everything you want in a cozy dinner — hearty, flavorful, and easy to make — without the heaviness of traditional meatloaf. With their golden cheesy tops and savory garlic aroma, they’re a hit with both kids and adults.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something satisfying but healthy-ish, these mini meatloaves are a dependable go-to. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and endlessly customizable.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves: A Flavor-Packed Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Ingredients