Description
This delicious Loaf-Pan Chicken recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, featuring ground chicken combined with Italian seasonings, Parmesan, and a savory marinara topping. Baked to perfection and finished with melted mozzarella, it’s a comforting and easy main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the chicken loaf from sticking during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Shape and Top: Press the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake the Loaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the loaf from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken loaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce if desired for added flavor.
Notes
- This recipe is a great Italian-inspired variation of traditional meatloaf.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- For added nutrition, incorporate finely chopped spinach or shredded zucchini into the chicken mixture.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
