Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Casserole
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatloaf Base:
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500 grams ground chicken (preferably thigh meat)
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1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup whole milk
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2 large eggs
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1/2 small onion, finely minced or grated
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/4 teaspoon thyme
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
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4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/4 cup milk or cream (warm)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch or similar-sized baking dish.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
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Place cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
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Drain well, then mash with butter, warm milk or cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken Meatloaf Base:
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In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 2–3 minutes.
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Add ground chicken, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, and seasonings. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the bottom layer.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
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Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meatloaf layer.
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan. Drizzle or brush over the top of the mashed potatoes.
5. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches at least 74°C (165°F).
If needed, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the top.
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or a crisp garden salad.
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Pairs well with a light gravy or a garlic cream sauce, though it’s rich enough to stand on its own.
Let me know if you would like a low-carb variation (e.g., using cauliflower mash), or if you’d prefer to include vegetables like spinach or broccoli in the casserole.