Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf “Simple. Juicy. Weeknight-perfect.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving something comforting but still light, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is your answer. It’s a family favorite in my house — tender, juicy, and packed with flavor from fresh garlic, melted butter, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.

It’s not your average meatloaf. Ground chicken keeps it lighter, while the garlic-Parmesan combo gives it that bold, craveable flavor that makes everyone go back for seconds. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, a green veggie, or even garlic butter rice — and you’ve got dinner done.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground chicken (1 ½ lbs): Lean, juicy, and the perfect base for absorbing flavor.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds saltiness and richness — freshly grated is best.
Breadcrumbs or panko (½ cup): Helps bind and keeps it tender.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The star of the show.
Egg (1): For structure and moisture.
Milk (¼ cup): Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatloaf juicy.
Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Adds a pop of freshness.
Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt & pepper: A simple but perfect flavor combo.
Melted butter (2 tbsp): Makes the meatloaf rich and flavorful.

Four unbaked garlic parmesan chicken meatloaves on parchment paper, seasoned with herbs and ready to bake. — “Shaped and ready for the oven — these mini loaves are soft, herby, and full of flavor. I love making them smaller so they bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust on all sides.”

Garlic Butter Topping (Optional — but a must in my book)

2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, milk, parsley, and seasonings. Mix just until combined — overmixing makes it tough.
Shape & bake: Press the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temp reaches 165°F.
Make garlic butter topping: While it bakes, melt butter in a small pan with garlic until fragrant. Stir in Parmesan and parsley.
Brush & broil: Brush the topping over the meatloaf and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
Rest & slice: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing — this keeps all the juices inside.

Serving Tips

Serve it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad.
Slice up leftovers for meatloaf sandwiches with a little mayo or marinara.
For a cozy dinner night, drizzle extra garlic butter over the top right before serving.

Recipe Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and has more flavor.
Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or panko for extra crunch.
Don’t skip the resting time — it’s the secret to juicy slices.
Want more moisture? Add a tablespoon of mayo or sour cream into the mix (it’s a little trick I use when meal prepping)..

Make It Your Own

Add a little mozzarella in the center for a cheesy surprise.
Mix in spinach or finely chopped zucchini for a veggie boost.
Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

📌 Save This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is everything you love about cozy dinners — simple, flavorful, and family-approved. It’s one of those recipes that makes the house smell amazing while it bakes.

Save it, pin it, and tag me if you try it — I love seeing your dinner creations!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf