Italian Chicken Meatloaf

Italian Chicken Meatloaf combines two comforting classics into one delicious dish, perfect for your weeknight dinner rotation. This savory recipe brings Italian flavors right to your table, with the addition of marinara sauce, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Not only does it deliver a hearty meal, but it’s also a fantastic way to utilize ground chicken, offering a healthier twist without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Italian Chicken Meatloaf is a real showstopper.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this recipe apart is its delightful balance of flavors and its adaptability for different occasions. It’s not just a meatloaf—it’s a celebration of Italian cuisine that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. You’ll appreciate how quick it is to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests. Plus, kids adore it thanks to the cheesy goodness and familiar flavors!

“I made this Italian Chicken Meatloaf for a family gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone asked for the recipe and the kids couldn’t get enough. It’s definitely going to be a regular in our meal plan!” – A happy home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Italian Chicken Meatloaf is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll mix together simple ingredients into a flavorful loaf, bake it until golden, and enjoy a comforting meal. Here’s what to expect as you embark on this culinary journey:

1. Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven.
2. Mix the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, cheeses, egg, and spices.
3. Shape the mixture and place it in a baking dish.
4. Top with marinara sauce and bake until fully cooked.

Now, let’s cover the essentials you’ll need.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To bring this Italian Chicken Meatloaf to life, gather the following ingredients:

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• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use whole wheat or gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional marinara sauce for topping
• Crispy breadcrumbs for topping

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well integrated.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Spread marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure juicy pieces.

Tips for Serving

When it comes to serving, you can elevate this dish by pairing it with some classic Italian side dishes. Consider serving your meatloaf with:

• A fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or a side of buttery pasta.
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for color and nutrition.
• A side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a fresh contrast.

Best Way to Store Italian Chicken Meatloaf

To keep your Italian Chicken Meatloaf fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave on a plate covered with a damp paper towel.

Expert Advice

Here are some pro chef tips that can take your Italian Chicken Meatloaf to the next level:

• Moisture Control: Ensure the ground chicken is not too lean for a juicier texture; adding a bit of olive oil can help.
• Flavor Enhancers: Consider adding chopped fresh basil or oregano for more vibrant Italian flavor.
• Egg Substitute: If you need an egg substitute, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan alternative.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

• Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a different twist.
• Add spinach or carrot to the mix for extra vegetables and nutrients.
• For a spicy kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Top with feta cheese for a Mediterranean vibe.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and then it’s just a matter of baking!

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be used as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.

How should I handle leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and always reheat until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

By following this guide, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying Italian Chicken Meatloaf that will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

Italian Chicken Meatloaf

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• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Poultry

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Description

A savory blend of Italian flavors in a comforting meatloaf made with ground chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional marinara sauce for topping
• Crispy breadcrumbs for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well integrated.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Spread marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure juicy pieces.

Notes

Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: meatloaf, chicken, Italian, dinner, comfort food