Mediterranean Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
This Mediterranean-inspired chicken meatloaf is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs give the meat a rich, savory taste, while panko breadcrumbs and milk keep it light and moist. For an extra layer of indulgence, a garlic-Parmesan glaze can be brushed on top, creating a golden crust that complements the tender loaf inside. It’s comfort food with a Mediterranean twist that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground chicken
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup whole milk
For the Garlic Parmesan Glaze (optional):
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat oven:
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and milk.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined (do not overmix to avoid dryness).
Shape and bake:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the glaze (optional):
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
Glaze and finish:
During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the garlic-Parmesan glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Return to the oven to let the glaze set and form a golden crust.
Rest and serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Cheese options: Try mixing Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or even a little mozzarella for extra richness.
Breadcrumb alternatives: Use crushed crackers or cooked quinoa instead of panko for a different texture.
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the mixture for a subtle kick.
Moisture boost: A spoonful of Greek yogurt or ricotta mixed in with the chicken will make the loaf even juicier.
Herb variations: Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano can replace the dried herbs for brighter flavor.
Mini loaves: Instead of one large loaf, divide the mixture into muffin tins for individual portions. They’ll cook faster too (about 20–25 minutes).
Glaze swap: Instead of the garlic-Parmesan glaze, brush with a thin layer of olive oil and sprinkle extra Parmesan before baking for a crisp golden top.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the loaf up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Bake first, let it cool, then wrap slices or the whole loaf in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey for chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well. Just make sure it’s not too lean, or add a bit of olive oil for moisture.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Q: What can I serve with this meatloaf?
It pairs well with roasted potatoes, mashed cauliflower, steamed green beans, or a Mediterranean salad.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~330
Protein: 32g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: ~600mg
(Approximate values; will vary with ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and comforting with every bite. The Parmesan and garlic create a savory base, while the glaze adds an optional golden finish. It’s easy enough for weeknights but also elegant enough to serve to guests. With its versatility and classic flavor, this dish is bound to become a staple at your table.