If you love classic meatloaf but want a lighter, more flavorful version, this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is the perfect twist. It combines ground chicken with Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and a touch of marinara for a moist, tender loaf that’s packed with flavor. It’s comforting, cheesy, and wonderfully savory—everything you love about Italian cooking in one easy dish.
The first time I made this, I wasn’t expecting much from a “chicken meatloaf,” but it completely blew me away. Once, I topped it with mozzarella and extra marinara sauce before baking—it turned into a delicious, cheesy, pizza-like version that everyone loved. Whether for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this meatloaf delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes a classic comfort dish and gives it an Italian-inspired makeover. It’s juicy, flavorful, and lighter than traditional beef meatloaf, yet just as satisfying. With Parmesan and herbs baked right in, every slice is tender, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Plus, it’s simple to make, family-friendly, and great for leftovers.
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Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Juicy, Flavorful, and Comforting with a Cheesy Twist
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A flavorful twist on the classic comfort food — this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is juicy, cheesy, and infused with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese, then topped with marinara and melted mozzarella for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, onion, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until combined — do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan.
- Spread ½ cup marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven, top with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra marinara sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in a tablespoon of pesto or sun-dried tomatoes into the meat mixture.
- Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a similar texture.
- This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
- Leftovers make great sandwiches or wraps the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground chicken – A lean, protein-packed base that stays juicy when mixed properly.
Eggs – Help bind the mixture together.
Breadcrumbs (Italian or plain) – Add structure and help the loaf hold its shape.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds nutty, salty richness throughout the loaf.
Marinara sauce – Keeps the meatloaf moist and adds that Italian flavor.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory aroma.
Onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and moisture.
Italian seasoning – Brings out classic herb flavors like oregano and basil.
Salt and black pepper – To season the mixture perfectly.
Mozzarella cheese (optional) – For a gooey, cheesy topping.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and freshness.
Directions
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. - Prepare the mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, minced garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined—don’t overmix or the loaf may become dense. - Shape the loaf:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape into a loaf. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top. - Bake:
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Add cheese (optional):
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top. Bake until melted and bubbly. - Rest and serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra marinara sauce if desired.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 1 hour total—15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking. It’s a cozy, filling dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights yet comforting enough for Sunday meals.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. This meatloaf also freezes beautifully—wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
Add a layer of mozzarella cheese in the center of the loaf before baking for a cheesy surprise.
Spicy Italian Meatloaf
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Pesto Chicken Meatloaf
Mix in a few tablespoons of pesto for an herby, aromatic twist.
Low-Carb Version
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to make it keto-friendly.
Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf
Fold in finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Barbecue Chicken Meatloaf
Swap the marinara for BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well in this recipe.
2. How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?
Adding marinara and Parmesan helps keep it moist—don’t overbake it.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the loaf up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
4. Can I freeze it raw?
Absolutely—wrap the uncooked loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
5. Can I make mini loaves?
Yes! Bake in muffin tins for about 20–25 minutes for individual portions.
6. What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad pair perfectly.
7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes—use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and increase baking time by about 10 minutes.
9. What’s the best marinara to use?
Any good-quality jarred or homemade marinara sauce works great.
10. How can I make it cheesier?
Add shredded mozzarella or provolone throughout the mixture and on top before baking.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a deliciously cheesy, tender twist on the classic meatloaf—loaded with Italian flavors and baked to perfection. With Parmesan, herbs, and marinara sauce blended into every bite, it’s a hearty yet lighter meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to please the whole family. Serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, and enjoy pure, comforting goodness any night of the week.
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