Melt-in-your-Mouth
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs ground chicken
¾ cup breadcrumbs (Italian style works best)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella (divided, half for topping)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup milk
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Optional glaze:
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until softened (3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, ½ cup mozzarella, eggs, milk, parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and the cooked onion/garlic. Mix gently until just combined.
4. Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
5. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove from oven. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. If using glaze, brush with melted butter mixed with Parmesan and garlic powder.
6. Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.