Mediterranean Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

🌿 Mediterranean Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing onion & garlic)

Optional glaze (Mediterranean twist):

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tsp honey

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion & garlic until soft and fragrant. Let cool slightly.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onion & garlic.

4. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).

5. Shape into a loaf in the prepared pan.

6. (Optional) Mix tomato paste, balsamic vinegar & honey, then spread evenly on top.

7. Bake 40–45 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

8. Rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley & Parmesan.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What can I use instead of ground chicken?
A: Ground turkey works best, but ground beef or lamb also work for a heartier version.

Q: How do I keep chicken meatloaf from drying out?
A: The milk, egg, and Parmesan add moisture. Don’t overbake—remove when internal temp reaches 165°F.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Q: What sides pair well with this?
A: Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or lemon herb couscous pair perfectly.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Bake, cool, slice, and freeze portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.