Name: Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lb ground chicken; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping); 1 large egg; 3/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 small onion, finely diced; 1/4 cup tomato paste or marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if using lean meat); 3/4 cup marinara sauce (for topping)

This Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not your average weeknight dinner—it’s comfort food with a cheesy, Italian-inspired twist. Tender ground chicken is blended with parmesan, herbs, and a touch of tomato sauce, then baked to golden perfection and topped with melty mozzarella and zesty marinara. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of chicken parmesan into a juicy, sliceable loaf.

Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this meatloaf is both hearty and wholesome. It pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, a crisp Caesar salad, or even tucked into a sandwich for lunch the next day. And best of all? It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that pack a serious punch of flavor.

What Kind of Ground Chicken Works Best?

When making Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, go for ground chicken that has a mix of white and dark meat—this keeps the loaf moist and flavorful. Lean breast-only ground chicken can be a little dry, but you can always add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of ricotta cheese to bump up the juiciness.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Ground Chicken: The base of the recipe. It’s leaner than beef and absorbs flavor beautifully.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps with binding. Use freshly grated for the best melt and texture.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melted over the top, it creates that classic chicken parm finish.

Egg: Essential for holding the meatloaf together.

Breadcrumbs: Give structure to the loaf. Italian-seasoned ones add extra flavor.

Garlic & Onion: Build depth and savoriness.

Tomato Paste or Marinara Sauce: For mixing into the meat mixture to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Italian Seasoning & Fresh Parsley: Bring herbaceous notes that balance the richness.

Salt & Pepper: To season throughout.

Olive Oil (optional): A splash can help if using very lean ground chicken.

How To Make the Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. This ensures the meatloaf won’t stick and helps it cook evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato paste or marinara, minced garlic, finely diced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated—don’t overwork it or the meatloaf could turn out tough.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape it into a firm, even loaf. Press lightly so it holds together but don’t compact it too tightly.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

Place in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when it’s done.

Step 5: Add Marinara and Mozzarella

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden spots.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle and makes it easier to cut clean slices without crumbling.

How to Serve and Store Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

This meatloaf is comfort food perfection straight out of the oven. For serving, slice it thick and pair with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered green beans. It also makes a standout sandwich the next day on a toasted hoagie roll with extra marinara and mozzarella.

To store leftovers, wrap slices tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It also freezes beautifully—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and has a similar texture. Use dark meat or a mix for best flavor and moisture.

How do I keep the meatloaf from being dry?

Be sure to use a bit of sauce in the mix, and don’t overbake. Also, avoid using only extra-lean meat.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the loaf and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don’t have marinara?

Tomato sauce or pizza sauce will work in a pinch. Add a pinch of Italian herbs for flavor.

Do I need a loaf pan?

Not at all! You can shape it by hand on a baking sheet for a more rustic look, and it cooks just as well.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Cheesy Comfort?

If this Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf hit the spot, you might want to check out these other cozy, flavor-packed dinners:

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce — hearty, saucy, and weeknight-friendly.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for that rich, southern flair.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli when you want a creamy bowl of comfort.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli if you love skillet meals with a cheesy twist.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a no-fuss, full-flavor dinner.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you use turkey instead of chicken? Maybe added chili flakes for a kick?

Drop a comment and share your version. Your tips might just help someone else nail their meatloaf game. Questions are always welcome too—let’s cook smarter together.