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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a Cheesy Surprise Center

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf combines the essence of chicken parmesan with a cheesy mozzarella center, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds moisture and richness; substitute with any neutral oil if needed.
  • 80 grams Onion, finely diced Provides flavor and sweetness; can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances aroma and depth of flavor; use garlic powder in a pinch (1/2 tsp).
  • 900 grams Ground Chicken Base protein for the meatloaf; ground turkey or lean beef can be used as alternatives.
  • 60 grams Seasoned Breadcrumbs Provides structure and absorbs moisture; Panko breadcrumbs may be used for added crunch.
  • 2 teaspoons Milk Keeps the meatloaf moist; can substitute with chicken broth or a non-dairy milk.
  • 30 grams Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds umami flavor; nutritional yeast can be an alternative for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 Egg Binds the mixture together; flaxseed meal (1 tbsp + 3 tbsp water) serves as a vegan binder.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped Infuses freshness; swap with basil for a different herb flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Brings a classic Italian flavor profile; individual dried herbs can be substituted.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall taste; adjust to taste preferences.
  • 3 Mozzarella Cheese Strings, cut into 1cm slices Used for the gooey center; regular mozzarella shredded cheese can be an alternative.
For the Topping
  • 120 ml Marinara Sauce Topping that elevates flavor; homemade or store-bought can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Panko Breadcrumbs Creates a crunchy topping; can be swapped with regular breadcrumbs.
  • 20 grams Additional Parmesan Cheese for Topping, grated Extra flavor and texture; exclude if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon Melted Butter Adds richness to the topping; use olive oil as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley for Topping, chopped For garnish.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
  1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 80g of finely diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 900g of ground chicken, the cooled onion and garlic mixture, 60g of seasoned breadcrumbs, 2 teaspoons of milk, 30g of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gently mix until just combined.
  3. Prepare a baking sheet with foil. Shape two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Create a well in the center and layer 3 slices of mozzarella cheese strings. Fold remaining meat over cheese and seal the edges.
  4. Spread 120ml of marinara sauce evenly over the meatloaf. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 45 minutes.
  5. Prepare topping by mixing 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs, 20g of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. After 45 minutes, sprinkle topping over meatloaf and return to oven for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp.
  6. Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve, revealing the melted cheese center.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 330kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

To ensure the best texture, allow the onion and garlic mixture to cool completely before adding to the meat, and mix ingredients gently to avoid overmixing. Can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.

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