Mediterranean Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This Mediterranean Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf takes the classic meatloaf to a fresh, lighter level. Made with lean ground chicken, bold garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a generous helping of Parmesan cheese, it’s a juicy, protein-rich loaf with a Mediterranean heart. Baked to golden perfection and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Total Time: 55 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
1½ lbs ground chicken
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed or rehydrated)
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Optional Topping:
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning (for sprinkling)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix just until everything is evenly incorporated — don’t overwork it.
Form the Loaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf on your prepared baking sheet or press it gently into a loaf pan.
Add Optional Topping:
Brush the top with a little olive oil, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a touch of Italian seasoning for a crisp, golden crust.
Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serve:
Slice and serve with a side of garlicky roasted veggies, herbed quinoa, or a crisp Mediterranean salad.
Tips
Meatloaf Texture:
Don’t overmix the meat — this can lead to a dense or rubbery loaf. Mix just until combined.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs; if too dry, a splash of milk or olive oil can help.
Cooking Tip:
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness — chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Boost the Flavor:
For extra garlicky depth, roast the garlic cloves before mincing, or add a touch of garlic powder alongside fresh.
Meal Prep Friendly:
Make individual meatloaf muffins in a muffin tin for grab-and-go portions and faster cooking (about 20–25 mins at 375°F).
Variations
Cheese Upgrades:
Swap Parmesan with crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, or manchego for different flavor profiles.
Add a cheese-stuffed center — press some mozzarella or feta cubes into the center of the loaf before baking.
Herb Variations:
Try fresh dill, mint, or thyme instead of or in addition to parsley and oregano.
Mix in a spoonful of pesto for a herby richness.
Vegetable Add-ins:
Add finely grated zucchini (squeezed dry), spinach, or carrot for moisture and nutrition.
Stir in chopped olives or roasted red peppers for bold Mediterranean flair.
Low-Carb / Keto Option:
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or ground flaxseed.
Dairy-Free Option:
Skip the cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative and check that your breadcrumbs are dairy-free.
Spice It Up:
Add a pinch of red chili flakes, Aleppo pepper, or harissa paste to the mix for a spicy kick.
Q&A
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey (preferably 93% lean) works just as well and delivers similar flavor and moisture.
Q: What’s the best way to keep chicken meatloaf from drying out?
A: Be sure not to overbake it, and use moist ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, egg, and grated onion. Let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready. Leftovers keep well for 3–4 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Definitely. Wrap the raw loaf tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. You can also freeze baked slices for meal prep.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Try it with lemon-roasted potatoes, garlicky green beans, tabbouleh, or a crisp Mediterranean cucumber salad.
Nutrition Facts
Estimates may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Calories: 290
Protein: 27g
Fat: 17g
Carbs: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 480mg
Cholesterol: 110mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a flavorful, high-protein spin on a nostalgic classic — lighter than beef versions yet packed with bold garlic, herbs, and cheesy richness. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, easy to prep in advance, and endlessly versatile. Whether served warm from the oven or cold in lunchboxes, this meatloaf is a Mediterranean must-make that always delivers comfort with character.