Why Make This Recipe

Italian Chicken Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic dish. Using ground chicken makes it lighter, while the combination of herbs, cheese, and marinara sauce brings out Italian flavors that everyone loves. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

How to Make Italian Chicken Meatloaf

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
Top the meatloaf with marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional breadcrumbs.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until cooked through and 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 with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with pasta or garlic bread for a complete Italian meal. Don’t forget to drizzle more marinara sauce on top for added flavor!

How to Store Italian Chicken Meatloaf

After it has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Italian Chicken Meatloaf

For extra flavor, you can add chopped bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture.
Make sure not to overmix the ingredients, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the meatloaf is cooked through.

Variation

If you want to make it a bit different, try adding Italian seasoning or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. You can also use ground turkey instead of chicken for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Italian Chicken Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs well with pasta, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes.