Description
These Mini Chicken Parmesan Meatloaves are a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, combining lean ground chicken with savory Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, Italian seasoning, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfectly portioned for individual servings, these meatloaves bake to juicy perfection and make a comforting and satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs. ground chicken
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently just until combined to keep the meatloaves tender; avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Meatloaves: Divide the mixture evenly into 8 portions. Shape each portion into a small, compact loaf and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatloaves: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the loaves for 25 minutes until they start to firm up and cook through.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the meatloaves from the oven, spoon about a tablespoon of marinara sauce over each, then sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons of freshly grated mozzarella cheese onto each meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish each mini meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mini Chicken Parmesan Meatloaves!
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken meatloaves reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Freshly grated cheeses melt better and have superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- To save time, prepare the marinara sauce in advance or use your favorite store-bought version.
- These meatloaves can be reheated in the oven or microwave; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
