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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a Cheesy Surprise Center

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf features a cheesy surprise center, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion (finely diced) Shallots can give a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Adjust quantity to taste or use garlic powder.
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Ground turkey or lean beef can be swapped.
  • 1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs Plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning can substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Almond milk is a great dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
  • 1 large Egg A flaxseed meal mixture can be a vegan alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Can be omitted or replaced with basil.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Use fresh herbs like oregano or basil.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use sea or kosher salt.
For the Cheesy Center & Topping
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (in strings and shredded) Provolone or gouda can substitute.
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Can use homemade or store-bought.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs can work.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (melted) Olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace.
  2. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant. Let cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with the cooled onion and garlic. Fold in seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until just combined.
  4. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape two-thirds of the chicken mixture into a rectangle. Create a well in the center and add shredded mozzarella, topping it with the remaining mixture.
  5. Spread marinara sauce over the top and bake for 45 minutes until bubbling and browning.
  6. Mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley. After initial baking, sprinkle on top with more mozzarella and return to the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to redistribute juices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a complete meal, pair with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

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