Introduction
Discover a delightful mix of flavors with these delicious chicken meatloaf muffins. Perfect for a quick meal, these savory muffins combine the wholesome goodness of ground chicken with melty mozzarella and a rich marinara sauce. They are easy to prepare and ideal for a family dinner or a fun get-together. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the recipe.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground chicken
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 small mozzarella balls (or 3-4 small pearls per muffin)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Yield: 12 mini meatloaf muffins
These savory chicken meatloaf muffins are not only delicious but also a satisfying meal option that can easily be prepared in advance. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or packed for lunch the next day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, milk, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly until well incorporated.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Press one large mozzarella ball or 3-4 small mozzarella pearls into the center of each meatloaf muffin, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed by the chicken mixture.
Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce
Top each meatloaf muffin with a spoonful of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly over the surface to add flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Sprinkle Shredded Mozzarella
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each muffin, providing a delicious cheesy topping.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the muffin tin on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow during baking.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly at this point.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Allow the muffins to rest in the tin for about 5 minutes before serving, which helps them set and makes them easier to remove.
Notes
Variation Suggestions
Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrition.
Storage Instructions
Leftover meatloaf muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These meatloaf muffins are great on their own or served with additional marinara sauce for dipping. Pair them with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Mixing
Thoroughly combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and seasonings to ensure even distribution of flavors and a cohesive texture.
Portioning
Scoop equal amounts of the chicken mixture into each muffin cup to ensure consistent cooking and presentation.
Encasing
Press mozzarella balls into the center of the muffin mixture to create a surprise cheesy filling that melts during baking.
Layering
Top each muffin with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese for added flavor, moisture, and visual appeal.
Baking
Bake muffins until they are fully cooked and the cheese is melted, checking for doneness to avoid undercooking.
Resting
Let muffins rest in the tin after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring they stay moist when served.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or pork, though cooking times may vary based on the meat used.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives for a similar flavor profile.
How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or mix in chopped vegetables for added nutrition.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for a day before baking, or bake them and reheat as needed.
What can I serve with these meatloaf muffins?
These muffins pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
These delicious meatloaf muffins are a great way to enjoy a classic dish in a fun and convenient form. With the combination of ground chicken, flavorful herbs, and gooey mozzarella, they make for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, these muffins are sure to become a favorite.
Cheesy Chicken Meatballs
Substitute the ground chicken with ground beef or turkey and serve with a side of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the mixture as a stuffing for bell peppers instead of muffin tins, top with marinara and shredded cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Layer the chicken mixture in a baking dish, surround it with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella for a hearty casserole.
Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Shape the mixture into larger meatballs, bake as directed, then serve in a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
Use the ground chicken mixture as a filling for quesadillas, adding extra cheese, and cook until crispy for a quick and tasty meal.
Mini Chicken Pizza Muffins
Add pizza toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture before baking for a fun pizza-flavored muffin.
