**Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mini Meatloaves: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish**
If you're looking to switch up your dinner routine with something delicious yet simple, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mini Meatloaves are the perfect choice. Combining the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with lean ground chicken, these mini meatloaves are a lighter, yet equally satisfying, alternative to traditional beef meatloaf.
### Why You'll Love These Mini Meatloaves
These mini meatloaves pack all the comfort of classic meatloaf but with a twist. The use of ground chicken makes them leaner and lighter, while the garlic and Parmesan cheese add a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Plus, their smaller size means they cook faster and are perfectly portioned for individual servings.
### Ingredients You'll Need
To make these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mini Meatloaves, you'll need:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- Extra Parmesan for sprinkling (optional)
### Instructions
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line with parchment paper.
2. **Mix the ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined.
3. **Shape the meatloaves**: Divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin, pressing it down to form mini meatloaves.
4. **Bake**: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. **Add the marinara sauce**: Once the meatloaves are cooked, remove them from the oven and spoon a little marinara sauce over each one. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
6. **Serve and enjoy**: Let the mini meatloaves cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
### Tips and Variations
- **Make it ahead**: These mini meatloaves are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare and bake them in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving.
- **Customize the flavors**: Feel free to add in other herbs or spices, such as thyme, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- **Swap the protein**: If you're not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute ground turkey or even a mixture of ground beef and pork.
### Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Mini Meatloaves are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional meatloaf. Their rich flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility make them a fantastic addition to any dinner rotation. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
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