Why Make This Recipe
Italian Chicken Meatloaf is a fantastic twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. If you want a dish that combines comfort food with Italian flavors, this is the perfect recipe. It’s easy to make, healthy, and packed with delicious ingredients that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use ground chicken, offering a lighter option compared to traditional beef meatloaf.
How to Make Italian Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional marinara sauce for topping
- Crispy breadcrumbs for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle crispy breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Italian Chicken Meatloaf
Serve the Italian Chicken Meatloaf hot from the oven. You can slice it and plate it alongside your favorite vegetables or pasta. Drizzle some extra marinara sauce over the top for added flavor. A fresh green salad or some garlic bread makes for a perfect side dish to complement this meal.
How to Store Italian Chicken Meatloaf
If you have leftovers, store the Italian Chicken Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Italian Chicken Meatloaf
- Mix the meatloaf well, but don’t over-mix; this keeps it tender.
- Feel free to adjust the garlic and Italian seasoning to suit your taste.
- For added moisture, you can mix in some sautéed vegetables like onions or bell peppers.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C) to be safe.
Variation
You can customize this meatloaf by adding chopped spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorites!
FAQs
CAN I USE BEEF INSTEAD OF CHICKEN?
YES, YOU CAN SUBSTITUTE GROUND BEEF FOR THE GROUND CHICKEN IF YOU PREFER A RICHER, HEARTIER FLAVOR. JUST KEEP IN MIND THAT BEEF HAS MORE FAT, SO THE MEATLOAF MAY BE JUICIER AND A LITTLE HEAVIER. YOU CAN ALSO USE A MIX OF GROUND BEEF AND GROUND TURKEY OR CHICKEN FOR A BALANCE BETWEEN FLAVOR AND LIGHTNESS. WHATEVER MEAT YOU CHOOSE, MAKE SURE TO CHECK THAT THE INTERNAL TEMPERATURE REACHES 165°F (74°C) FOR FOOD SAFETY.
CAN I MAKE THIS MEATLOAF AHEAD OF TIME?
ABSOLUTELY! YOU CAN MIX ALL THE INGREDIENTS AND FORM THE LOAF UP TO A DAY IN ADVANCE, THEN COVER AND REFRIGERATE IT UNTIL YOU’RE READY TO BAKE. THIS IS PERFECT FOR BUSY DAYS WHEN YOU WANT DINNER READY WITH MINIMAL EFFORT. YOU CAN ALSO BAKE THE MEATLOAF COMPLETELY, LET IT COOL, AND THEN STORE IT IN THE FRIDGE. WHEN READY TO SERVE, REHEAT SLICES IN THE OVEN WITH A LITTLE EXTRA MARINARA SAUCE TO KEEP THEM MOIST.
WHAT SAUCE GOES WELL WITH ITALIAN CHICKEN MEATLOAF?
MARINARA SAUCE IS THE CLASSIC AND EASIEST OPTION, AND IT TIES IN PERFECTLY WITH THE ITALIAN FLAVORS IN THE MEATLOAF. YOU CAN SPOON SOME OVER THE TOP BEFORE BAKING AND ADD EXTRA WHEN SERVING FOR MORE SAUCINESS. IF YOU WANT A CHANGE, TRY A SIMPLE TOMATO BASIL SAUCE OR EVEN A LIGHT GARLIC BUTTER SAUCE SERVED ON THE SIDE. WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE, A LITTLE EXTRA SAUCE ON THE PLATE MAKES EACH SLICE EVEN MORE FLAVORFUL AND COMFORTING.
Italian Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce For mixing in
- 1 piece egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- additional marinara sauce for topping
- to taste Crispy breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle crispy breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.