Go Back
–+ servings
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist

A delightful Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf featuring a cheesy center that redefines comfort food. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be substituted with canola oil
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced, can use shallots or any mild onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic is preferred
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Can substitute with ground turkey or lean beef
  • 1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs Unseasoned breadcrumbs plus Italian spices can be used
  • 1/2 cup Milk Plant-based milk works for a dairy-free version
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; pecorino romano can be an alternative
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder; can replace with a flax egg
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; basil or oregano can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Blend of various herbs for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt or kosher salt based on preference
For the Surprise Center
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Strings cut into slices; replace with any full-fat melting cheese
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Choose homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko isn’t available
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Melted; olive oil or margarine can be alternatives
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Full-fat mozzarella is ideal for a melty finish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and cooking spray.
  2. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 5–7 minutes, then cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cooled onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently.
  4. Shape about two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf and create a groove in the center for mozzarella slices. Seal the cheese with remaining mixture.
  5. Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and place in the oven to bake for approximately 45 minutes.
  6. Mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and parsley to prepare the topping.
  7. After 45 minutes, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, add the breadcrumb topping, and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize with vegetables like diced peppers or zucchini for a nutritional boost. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!