Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender ground chicken with plant-based Parmesan and smoky turkey bacon. Enhanced with fresh garlic, herbs, and natural seasonings, it offers a light yet savory meal perfect for families and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup plant-based Parmesan (plant-based), grated
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg or 1 flax egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent (optional)
Variations (Optional)
- 1/2 cup grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach for veggie boost
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick
- Substitute parsley with fresh basil or thyme
- Replace plant-based Parmesan with shredded plant-based mozzarella or sharp cheddar (plant-based)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and garlic cloves. Crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a pan until golden and crumble into small pieces to distribute flavor evenly.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, garlic, plant-based Parmesan, parsley, egg, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and plant-based milk. Stir gently until all ingredients are blended well without overmixing.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape by hand on a lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for even cooking.
- Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden and the center is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10 minutes before slicing to help juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Notes
- Do not overmix the ingredients to avoid a dense or tough meatloaf.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste.
- Cook bacon until crispy for a delightful texture contrast.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking for juiciness and easier slicing.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of meatloaf)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken meatloaf, garlic parmesan, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, gluten-free meatloaf, family dinner, savory meatloaf
