Description
This Italian Chicken Meatloaf with Parmesan is a flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, combining tender ground chicken with fragrant herbs, garlic, fennel seeds, and a rich Parmesan butter topping. Baked to a golden brown perfection, it’s a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup half and half
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ¼ cups breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tbsp fennel seeds, roughly chopped
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 lbs ground chicken
Parmesan Butter Topping
- ¼ cup salted butter
- Remaining grated Parmesan (approximately 1 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix the binders and flavorings: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth. Add the half and half, breadcrumbs, ½ cup of the grated Parmesan, minced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, roughly chopped fennel seeds, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk and bind together with the other ingredients.
- Incorporate the ground chicken: Add the ground chicken to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently fold the meat into the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat to keep it tender.
- Shape the meatloaf: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using your hands, form the meat mixture into a tight loaf shape on the parchment, firmly pressing the edges to hold it together for even cooking.
- Prepare the Parmesan butter topping: In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to create a spreadable, cheesy butter topping.
- Spread the topping: Evenly coat the top of the meatloaf with the Parmesan butter mixture to add richness and a golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it is safely cooked through.
- Rest the meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice and more flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve hot with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the meat to keep the texture light and tender.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps maintain juiciness when sliced.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safe and perfect doneness.
- You can substitute half and half with whole milk or cream for variation in richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
