Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together juicy ground chicken, nutty Parmesan, and loads of garlicky flavor, look no further than these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves. Each mini meatloaf is packed with cheesy goodness and baked to golden perfection, making them just as fun to serve at family dinner as they are for meal prepping your lunches. With simple ingredients and a quick bake time, this easy weeknight dinner promises both comfort and a burst of flavor in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to fantastic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves lies in classic, fuss-free ingredients that deliver big on taste and texture. Each component plays a special role: some add moisture, others bring the zip, and together, they create a savory dish you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground chicken: The mild flavor and tenderness of ground chicken soak up all the cheesy, herby goodness—don’t substitute with breast for the same juicy results.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty punch, plus melts beautifully for an irresistible crust and gooey interior.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: These seasoned crumbs help bind the meatloaf and keep it deliciously moist.
- Milk: Adds just enough moisture for a tender bite—try whole or 2% for the best texture.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, giving each meatloaf structure and helping everything hold together perfectly.
- Fresh garlic: Mincing three cloves is key for that punchy, mouthwatering aroma and flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the flavor and brings an earthy, fragrant background note.
- Salt and black pepper: Just the right amount to enhance all the other flavors—taste and adjust if needed.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Brings a burst of color and fresh flavor; use it in the mix or just for finishing.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The perfect melty, bubbly topper for that crave-worthy finish.
- Extra Parmesan for garnish (optional): For those cheese lovers who want just a bit more oomph at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and getting your muffin tin ready—either lightly grease the cups or line them with parchment for easy cleanup. Gather, measure, and chop everything you need. Having your ingredients prepped ensures you’ll breeze right through making these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula and mix just until combined—overmixing will make the meatloaves tough, so be gentle for the juiciest meatloaf possible!
Step 3: Shape and Portion
Evenly divide the mixture into 6–8 portions, placing each one into its own muffin cup. If you don’t have a muffin tin, simply shape little oval loaves by hand and space them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is truly fun and gives an adorable personal touch to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F. Just before they’re done, sprinkle each mini meatloaf with a generous spoonful of shredded mozzarella, then return them to the oven for 5 more minutes—let the cheese get bubbly and beautifully browned.
Step 5: Finish and Enjoy
Let your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves rest for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. This little pause helps seal in juices and makes serving a breeze. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley to really take them over the top—get ready for some happy faces at the dinner table!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a pinch of fresh parsley make these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves even more irresistible. If you want to amp up the color, try a dash of red pepper flakes or a few shavings of lemon zest for a surprising zing.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes are always a comforting pairing, and a side of roasted green beans or a crisp salad rounds out the plate perfectly. If you’re keeping it light, a bed of garlicky sautéed spinach works beautifully too—these meatloaves truly play well with whatever veggies you prefer.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or potluck, serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves on a platter with toothpicks and extra dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli. For lunchboxes or meal prep, tuck them in bento-style containers alongside rice or quinoa and a medley of colorful roasted vegetables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Place cooled meatloaves in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor—perfect for easy lunches and quick dinners all week long.
Freezing
These meatloaves freeze like a dream! Arrange cooled meatloaves on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a fuss-free meal anytime you crave cheesy comfort.
Reheating
To reheat, pop meatloaves in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes, or warm them in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through. Add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of sauce to revive that just-baked flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly in place of chicken and delivers a very similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to use ground turkey with a bit of fat for maximum juiciness.
What can I use instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs?
If Italian-style aren’t on hand, use plain breadcrumbs and add a pinch of dried Italian herbs, oregano, or basil for classic flavor. Crushed crackers or even panko can work in a pinch, though the texture will be a touch different.
Are these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free version or ground oats. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Can I make a large loaf instead of minis?
You sure can! Just shape all the mixture into a single loaf and bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 375°F, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time and checking for an internal temp of 165°F.
What sauces go well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves?
For something classic, a warm marinara sauce is wonderful, but you can also serve these alongside pesto, garlic aioli, or even a simple drizzle of olive oil with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Final Thoughts
From the very first cheesy, garlicky bite, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves will earn their place in your meal rotation. They’re comforting, easy, and endlessly customizable—just waiting for you to make them your own. Give them a try and savor every wholesome, flavorful mouthful!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 mini meatloaves 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves are a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, these mini meatloaves are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaves:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare tin: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a muffin tin or line with parchment.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until everything is just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape and bake: Divide the mixture into muffin cups or form freeform loaves on a baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes at 375°F until cooked through.
- Add topping: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle mozzarella on each meatloaf and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- These mini meatloaves are great for meal prep and freeze well.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- You can substitute ground turkey if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatloaf
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg