Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re craving extra comfort, nothing beats this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf—a dish that wraps you in savory, cheesy goodness with every bite. Tender ground chicken comes together with aromatic garlic, nutty Parmesan, and the perfect blend of seasoning, creating a modern twist on a classic favorite. The step that can’t be skipped: lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil so every luscious slice slips right out, golden and ready to serve. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday, a family dinner, or sharing with friends, this meatloaf is destined to become your go-to for warmth and flavor when you need a little food hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the lineup: these simple ingredients come together to create a meatloaf with layers of flavor, juicy texture, and complete satisfaction. Each element plays its part—no fancy extras required—to craft a meal that’s as easy as it is memorable.
- Ground chicken (2 lbs): The star of the show, ground chicken keeps the loaf lighter than beef while staying ultra-moist.
- Panko bread crumbs (1 cup): Light and flaky, panko helps absorb moisture and gives the meatloaf that perfect tender crumb.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, plus more for topping): Adds savory depth and that signature cheesy finish on top.
- Milk (¼ cup): Keeps the interior soft, never dry, melding all the flavors together.
- Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Essential binders that hold your loaf together beautifully.
- Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp! Fresh garlic infuses bold, aromatic flavor all the way through.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to gently cook garlic and bring moisture into every bite.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Delivers those classic herby notes that make your kitchen smell incredible.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Just the right amount to enhance every flavor.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a subtle warmth without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup, chopped): For brightness and a pop of green both inside and out.
- Chicken broth (¼ cup): Keeps the loaf juicy as it bakes, lending extra savory dimension.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Makes the topping rich, golden, and utterly delicious.
- Garlic powder (1 tablespoon): Doubles down on the garlic flavor, especially in the buttery glaze on top.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Step 1: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl. Pour in the milk, then add the two lightly beaten eggs. Whisk the mixture together until well combined. This base is key to making a meatloaf that’s tender and never dry.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Pour in the panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (save some extra for the top). Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything until just combined, ensuring your meatloaf holds together without becoming tough.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced fresh garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s just fragrant. This step mellows the garlic for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Garlic and Parsley
Pour the sautéed garlic and its oil straight into the mixing bowl. Add the chopped parsley right on top. This duo brings fresh, herby notes and deep garlic aroma into every bite.
Step 5: Blend in the Ground Chicken
Now, add the ground chicken to your bowl. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a sturdy spoon. Be careful not to overmix—just until the ingredients are incorporated for the most tender result.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Time to heat things up! Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, finish assembling your loaf.
Step 7: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil
This step is a non-negotiable! Generously and evenly lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil. This ensures that your gorgeous meatloaf releases perfectly after baking (no sticking, no torn edges—just neat, tempting slices).
Step 8: Shape the Meatloaf
Gently scoop and transfer your meatloaf mixture into the pan. Use a spatula or clean hands to shape it into an even loaf, pressing down just enough to eliminate air pockets.
Step 9: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and garlic powder. You want every drop infused with garlic flavor, primed for brushing over your loaf.
Step 10: Brush and Sprinkle the Topping
Generously brush the top of the meatloaf with your garlic butter mixture. Then, grab that reserved Parmesan cheese and sprinkle liberally over the top—it’ll form a golden, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 11: Add Chicken Broth
For supreme juiciness, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the loaf pan, surrounding the meatloaf. This will create a gentle steam that keeps your meatloaf moist and flavorful.
Step 12: Bake to Perfection
Carefully transfer your prepared (and generously,Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf) pan to the oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 13: Test for Doneness
Check with a meat thermometer. The loaf is ready when the center hits 165°F (74°C), and juices run clear—not pink—when pierced.
Step 14: Rest the Meatloaf
Remove your masterpiece from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This helps lock in moisture and makes slicing a breeze.
Step 15: Slice and Serve
After resting, gently run a knife around the edges of your pan—remember, you prepared for this by Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf in advance! Slice evenly and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Garnishes
Bring on the flourish! Just before serving, add a sprinkle of more fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan. For a burst of color, you can even drizzle a little olive oil or scatter microgreens on top.
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is ultra-versatile. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or a simple Caesar salad. Even roasted seasonal veggies make a cozy, colorful side your family or friends will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
Try thick slices on brioche for incredible meatloaf sandwiches, or plate warm slices over buttery polenta. You can even cut mini slabs and serve on crostini as elegant party bites. Having Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf means every slice comes out clean and party-ready!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices keep beautifully in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days—just let them cool completely first. Because you’ll have lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil, the meatloaf won’t stick, making it easy to remove leftovers cleanly.
Freezing
To freeze, let your cooked meatloaf cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Pop in a freezer-safe bag, and it will last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
For juicy, flavorful leftovers, reheat slices in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. Or, microwave gently with a splash of chicken broth to keep things moist. Thanks to the step where you lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil, reheating won’t dry out the loaf.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well—just note that you may want to check the internal temperature a few minutes early, as turkey can dry out more quickly. The overall process and seasonings remain the same.
Is there a substitute for panko crumbs?
Yes! Regular bread crumbs or even crushed crackers can stand in for panko. Just keep an eye on the texture—panko adds a lighter crumb, but other options will still bind everything together nicely.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
While fresh is best for flavor, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. The loaf will still be delicious, especially since garlic powder is already used in the buttery topping.
Why is it so important to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf?
This makes all the difference for easy release and beautiful presentation! Without this step, your meatloaf could stick, break apart, or leave half its cheesy crust behind—no one wants that!
Can I prep this meatloaf ahead?
Definitely! After shaping, cover your loaf with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, transfer the mixture, and bake as directed. Perfect for busy nights or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for something irresistibly tasty and comforting, give this recipe a try. Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil and rest easy—this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf will be a hit from the very first slice. I hope it becomes a cozy favorite in your kitchen too!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
Indulge in the savory goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. This ultimate comfort food recipe blends ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic garlic into a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Garlic Butter Topping:
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and lightly beaten eggs.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese (½ cup), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Incorporate Garlic and Parsley: Pour the sautéed garlic and oil into the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Add the chopped fresh parsley.
- Add Ground Chicken: Gently add the ground chicken to the mixing bowl. Mix everything together until just combined.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Shape Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape the mixture into an even loaf.
- Create Garlic Butter Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and garlic powder.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Brush the top of the meatloaf with the garlic butter mixture.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the top of the meatloaf with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add Chicken Broth to the Pan: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the loaf pan, around the meatloaf.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Check for Doneness: The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
- Rest Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice Meatloaf: After the meatloaf has rested, carefully slice it into even slices.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, Chicken Meatloaf Recipe, Comfort Food Recipe