Description
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Loaf
Ingredients:
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup almond flour (for a low-carb option)
1/4 cup parsley
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 egg, whisked
1 tsp chili flakes
1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Do not overmix.
Transfer the mixture to the pan, pressing it down evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until firm and golden.
Slice and serve with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce.
Description:
Low-carb and bursting with garlic flavor! How do you make meatloaf night extra special?
#LowCarbLoaf
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Parmesan Garlic Chicken Loaf every time.
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a standard loaf pan and lightly grease it with oil or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped parsley, crushed garlic cloves, chili flakes, and kosher salt. Whisk these together until evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the ground chicken and the whisked egg. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, gently mix until just combined. The key is to avoid overmixing, which can make the final loaf dense and tough.
- Shape and Bake: Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and create an even, flat top. This promotes uniform cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The loaf is done when the top is golden brown, the edges are pulling away from the pan, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile loaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete low-carb meal, serve it alongside a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or creamy cauliflower mash. The suggested dollop of cool sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a perfect finishing touch. Leftovers make excellent cold slices for lunchboxes or can be reheated gently in a skillet.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix all ingredients gently in a bowl. Press into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 30-35 mins until golden and cooked through. Rest, slice, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or a lean ground pork blend would work well as a substitute for the chicken, though baking times may vary slightly.
I don’t have almond flour. What can I use instead?
For a non low-carb version, you can use an equal amount of breadcrumbs or panko. For a grain-free alternative, try crushed pork rinds.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the baked loaf (whole or sliced) for up to 3 months.
My loaf seems wet in the middle. What happened?
This is likely due to underbaking or the moisture content of your ground chicken. Ensure you bake until the internal temperature is 165°F. Using a leaner ground chicken can also help.
Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
Yes, but be cautious of added moisture. Finely grated zucchini (squeezed dry) or finely chopped spinach are great options that blend well with the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Ingredients: This develops the proteins in the chicken, leading to a tough, rubbery texture. Mix until just combined.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Slicing the loaf immediately after baking will cause it to crumble. Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute and the loaf to set.
- Not Checking the Internal Temperature: Relying solely on color can result in undercooked chicken. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F.
- Using Freshly Grated vs. Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and integrates better than the pre-grated kind, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Loaf is a fantastic, flavor-packed solution for a satisfying low-carb dinner. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. With its savory garlic and Parmesan notes and a hint of spice, it’s sure to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try and make your next meatloaf night truly special.
