Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for drizzling
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, bread crumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir just until the ingredients are evenly combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Add Milk for Tenderness: Pour in the milk and gently stir the mixture until the milk is absorbed. This step enhances the meatloaf’s tenderness.
- Shape Mini Loaves: Divide the mixture evenly into four portions. Shape each portion into a mini loaf and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over each mini loaf. This promotes a nicely browned, crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaves reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Add Mozzarella Topping (Optional): About five minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle grated mozzarella on top of each mini loaf. Bake until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the loaves moist.
Notes
- Use lean ground chicken for a lighter alternative to beef meatloaf.
- If you prefer, swap parmesan with pecorino or a similar hard cheese for different flavor nuances.
- For gluten-free option, replace the bread crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or oats.
- Adding the milk gently into the mix helps achieve a tender and moist texture.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to prevent a dense meatloaf.
- Letting the loaves rest after baking enhances juiciness and flavor.
- Optional mozzarella topping adds melty richness and an appealing golden crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
