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* 1/4 cup marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato-based sauce)
* 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
* 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
* 1 teaspoon olive oil
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### 🔪 How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
#### 1. **Preheat the oven**:
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
#### 2. **Prepare the meatloaf mixture**:
* In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
#### 3. **Shape the meatloaf**:
* Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. If you prefer a slightly crispier exterior, you can also shape the meatloaf on a baking sheet, but the loaf pan helps retain moisture.
#### 4. **Prepare the glaze**:
* In a small bowl, whisk together the marinara sauce, honey, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil to create the glaze. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add a little extra honey or adjust the vinegar to your liking.
#### 5. **Glaze the meatloaf**:
* Pour the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon. This will create a beautiful, flavorful layer on top as it bakes.
#### 6. **Bake**:
* Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The top should be golden brown and slightly caramelized.
#### 7. **Let it rest**:
* Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
#### 8. **Serve and enjoy**:
* Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
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### 🍴 Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
* **Don’t overmix** – Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense texture. Stir until just combined for a light and tender meatloaf.
* **Add a topping** – If you love extra cheese, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or more parmesan on top of the meatloaf during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
* **Add vegetables** – Sneak in some finely chopped veggies like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the meatloaf even more nutritious and flavorful.
* **Make ahead** – This meatloaf can be prepared in advance! Assemble the meatloaf and glaze the top, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You can even freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months and bake it when needed.
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### 🍉 Final Thoughts
**Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf** is a perfect twist on the traditional meatloaf, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. The garlic and parmesan combination makes it incredibly savory, while the glaze adds a perfect touch of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
The best part? It’s versatile and easy to make, so you can customize it to your liking with different herbs, sauces, or even vegetables. Try it today for a delicious and healthier version of a classic comfort food!
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Let me know if you have any questions or want to customize the recipe further! Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf! 😊
