Italian Chicken Meatloaf
A delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, combining tender ground chicken with Italian herbs, marinara sauce, and cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Chicken A mix of dark and white meat is ideal for moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs Can use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for added fiber.
- 2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent.
- 1 cup Marinara Sauce Homemade is best for freshness.
- 1 cup Cheese (Mozzarella or choice) Other options include Parmesan or goat cheese.
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium Bell Pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp Oregano, chopped
Seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional) For added heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Finely chop the onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables. Chop fresh herbs.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped vegetables, herbs, and spices.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix into the meat mixture.
- Add half of the marinara sauce to keep the mixture moist.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle cheese.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Don’t skip the resting period for better moisture; consider making a double batch and freezing half for quick meals.