Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

80 g onion, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

900 g ground chicken

60 g seasoned breadcrumbs

2 teaspoons milk

30 g Parmesan cheese, grated

1 egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

3 mozzarella cheese strings, cut into 1 cm slices

120 ml marinara sauce

2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs

20 g Parmesan cheese, grated

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

120 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion mixture, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix gently just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 4: Pat two-thirds of the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle about 20 cm by 10 cm. Arrange the mozzarella cheese string pieces down the center, then top with the remaining chicken mixture. Shape into a loaf, sealing the cheese inside.

Step 5: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: While the meatloaf bakes, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped parsley to create the topping.

Step 7: After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, then evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 8: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden and the center temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Step 9: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps redistribute the juices and makes slicing easier.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers into the chicken mixture.

If you prefer, swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a similar taste and texture.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace parsley for a different herbal note.

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese strings inside the loaf?

If mozzarella strings are unavailable, you can use small cubes or strips of regular mozzarella cheese or even provolone for a similar melty center.

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Introduction