Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – are you ready to redefine your understanding of a beloved classic? I know I was! For too long, meatloaf has carried the unfair reputation of being a bit, well, bland or uninspired. But I’m thrilled to tell you that this recipe is an absolute game-changer, transforming a humble staple into an extraordinary culinary experience. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a testament to how simple, quality ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly spectacular that gathers everyone around the table. The concept of meatloaf, a hearty mixture of ground meat and seasonings, has been a comforting presence on dinner tables across the globe for centuries, evolving from ancient Roman dishes to the American classic we know today, often symbolizing home and family. What makes this particular version utterly irresistible is the incredible blend of savory garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and tender ground chicken, meticulously crafted to ensure every single bite is incredibly moist, flavorful, and satisfying. You will quickly discover why so many are falling in love with this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – its incredible taste, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and surprising ease of preparation make it an instant family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds Ground Chicken: I recommend using 90-93% lean ground chicken. This balance ensures your meatloaf is juicy without being overly greasy. Leaner chicken can sometimes result in a dry meatloaf, and we’re aiming for a truly Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- ¾ cup Panko Breadcrumbs: These are essential for the texture. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crisper than traditional breadcrumbs, helping to create a tender, less dense meatloaf and absorbing moisture to keep it juicy.
- ½ cup Whole Milk (or Buttermilk): Milk adds moisture and helps to tenderize the meat, contributing significantly to that coveted juiciness. Buttermilk can add a slight tanginess which is also wonderful.
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Please, use freshly grated! The pre-grated stuff just doesn’t melt and integrate the same way. This is where a big part of our “Parmesan” flavor comes from, giving a rich, savory depth to our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- 4-5 cloves Garlic: Finely minced. We’re building a truly “Garlic Parmesan” experience, so don’t be shy with the garlic. If you’re a garlic lover like me, you might even consider adding an extra clove!
- 1 large Egg: Lightly beaten. This acts as a binder, holding all our lovely ingredients together so our meatloaf keeps its shape.
- ½ cup Finely Chopped Yellow Onion: Sautéing this slightly beforehand can bring out its sweetness, but finely chopping it raw also works perfectly, adding a subtle crunch and aromatic base.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped. Flat-leaf parsley is my preference; it adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish and contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Kosher salt is always my go-to. It enhances all the flavors without making the dish overly salty.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground, please! It adds a lovely aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For just a hint of warmth and a very subtle spicy nuance, if you like. It won’t make it overtly spicy, but it adds another layer of complexity.
For the Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
- ½ cup Ketchup: The classic meatloaf glaze base.
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar: Light or dark, it adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the ketchup and helps create a lovely caramelized crust.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: This is a secret weapon for depth of flavor – it adds umami and a slight tang that really makes the glaze sing.
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness and balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Finely minced. More garlic! This ensures the “Garlic Parmesan” theme continues right through to the delicious glaze.
- 2 tablespoons Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Yes, more Parmesan! It melts into the glaze, adding another layer of cheesy goodness and a fantastic savory finish.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Standard loaf pan (9×5 inches) or a baking sheet with a wire rack
- Small bowl for glaze
- Whisk
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer (highly recommended for food safety and perfect doneness)
Preparing Our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf Base:
This is where the magic begins, truly, building the foundation for our incredible Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf. I always start by ensuring all my ingredients are prepped and ready to go – it makes the mixing process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
- First things first, let’s get our oven preheating. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when our meatloaf is ready to go in. I also like to lightly grease my 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if I’m free-forming the meatloaf. If you’re using a baking sheet, placing a wire rack on it is a brilliant move; it allows air to circulate, helping the meatloaf brown evenly and preventing it from sitting in its own juices.
- Grab your largest mixing bowl – you’ll want plenty of room to work. Into this bowl, I add the ¾ cup of Panko breadcrumbs and the ½ cup of whole milk (or buttermilk). Give it a gentle stir with a spoon or your hands, just enough to combine them. We want those Panko breadcrumbs to start absorbing the milk, becoming plump and tender. This step is crucial for moisture, making sure our meatloaf remains incredibly juicy. Let them sit for a minute or two while you gather the rest of your ingredients.
- Next, it’s time to bring in the aromatics and binders. To the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs, I add the finely chopped yellow onion, the minced garlic (4-5 cloves), the finely chopped fresh parsley, the lightly beaten large egg, and a generous ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Oh, the aroma of that fresh Parmesan combined with the garlic – it’s already hinting at the deliciousness to come!
- Now, let’s season this mixture properly. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and if you’re feeling a little adventurous like me, the ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. These seasonings are what will elevate the flavors of our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- Finally, it’s time for the star of the show: the 1 ½ pounds of ground chicken. Add it to the bowl with all the other magnificent ingredients. Now, here’s an important tip for a truly juicy and tender meatloaf: mix gently! I use my clean hands for this, as it allows me to really feel the texture and ensures everything is evenly distributed without overworking the meat. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dry meatloaf, and we definitely don’t want that for our “juicy” masterpiece. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined – you shouldn’t see any streaks of plain ground chicken. This usually takes me about 1-2 minutes of gentle handling. The mixture should feel somewhat sticky but hold its shape when pressed.
Forming and Baking the Meatloaf:
This phase is all about getting our carefully prepared mixture into its final form and starting the baking process, ensuring it cooks perfectly to achieve that moist, flavorful result we’re after for our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- Once your meatloaf mixture is perfectly combined, it’s time to shape it. If you’re using a loaf pan, simply transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down gently and evenly, making sure there are no air pockets and that the top is relatively flat. This helps it cook uniformly.
- If you’re opting for a free-form meatloaf on a baking sheet with a wire rack (which I often do because it develops a fantastic crust all around!), gently shape the mixture into an oval or rectangular loaf, approximately 9 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. Make sure the height is consistent across the loaf to promote even cooking. A free-form loaf often creates more surface area for the glaze to adhere to, leading to a richer flavor experience.
- Now, before we pop it into the oven, let’s get a head start on our delicious garlic Parmesan glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. We’re not adding the fresh garlic or Parmesan to the glaze yet; those will be added later for maximum freshness and flavor impact.
- Once your glaze base is mixed, spread about half of it evenly over the top and sides of your formed meatloaf. This initial layer of glaze will bake into the meatloaf, creating a wonderful savory-sweet crust right from the start and sealing in moisture, further contributing to the juiciness of our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.
- Carefully transfer the loaf pan or baking sheet to your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. We’re going to bake it for an initial 35-40 minutes. During this time, the meatloaf will begin to set, cook through, and the first layer of glaze will start to caramelize beautifully. Keep a close eye on it, and enjoy the wonderful aromas that will soon fill your kitchen!
The Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
While our meatloaf is baking, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show’s topping: the glaze! This isn’t just any glaze; it’s specifically crafted to amplify the “Garlic Parmesan” experience, making every bite of our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf sing.
- About 35-40 minutes into the baking process, when the meatloaf has started to firm up and the initial glaze layer looks nicely set and slightly caramelized, it’s time to prepare the final glaze.
- Take the small bowl with the remaining glaze base that you set aside earlier. To this, add the 2 cloves of finely minced fresh garlic and the 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly with a spoon or whisk until well combined. The addition of fresh garlic at this stage ensures its pungent, aromatic flavor shines through, rather than mellowing out too much from prolonged cooking. The Parmesan, oh that glorious Parmesan, will melt into the glaze, creating a rich, savory, and incredibly appetizing topping.
- Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. It will be hot, so use oven mitts!
- Now, generously spread this prepared garlic Parmesan glaze all over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Don’t be shy here; this is where a significant amount of the vibrant “Garlic Parmesan” flavor will come from, creating an irresistibly glossy and flavorful crust. This second layer of glaze helps build up that magnificent flavor and ensures the top remains wonderfully moist and delicious.
- Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes. This final baking period allows the glaze to truly set, caramelize further, and infuse the meatloaf with its incredible flavors. More importantly, it gives the meatloaf ample time to reach its safe internal temperature.
- Here’s the critical part for juiciness and safety: I always recommend using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf. We’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature after 20-25 minutes, continue baking in 5-minute increments until it does. A perfectly cooked meatloaf is moist and tender, and the thermometer is your best friend in achieving this without overcooking and drying it out.
Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions:
You’re almost there! This final stage is all about perfection, ensuring our Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is at its absolute best when it hits the table, promising a delightful culinary experience.
- Once your meatloaf has reached the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is beautifully caramelized and bubbly, carefully remove it from the oven.
- This next step is absolutely critical for a truly Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf: Resting the meatloaf. I know it’s tempting to slice right into it, but resist! Loosely tent the meatloaf with aluminum foil and let it rest on your countertop for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, resulting in a significantly more tender, moist, and flavorful slice. If you cut it too soon, those precious juices will run out onto your cutting board, leaving you with a drier meatloaf. Trust me, patience here pays off tenfold!
- After resting, it’s time to slice and serve. Use a sharp knife to cut the meatloaf into thick, even slices. I usually aim for about ¾ to 1-inch thick slices. The aroma alone at this point is usually enough to get everyone gathered around!
- For serving, I love to garnish my Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf with a sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped parsley and perhaps a little extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also reinforces those fresh, vibrant flavors.
- This meatloaf is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with so many side dishes. Some of my favorites include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
- Roasted asparagus or green beans, adding a lovely crisp-tender vegetable element.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette, because who can say no to more garlic?
I genuinely believe this is one of the most satisfying and flavorful chicken meatloaf recipes you’ll ever make. The balance of the savory chicken, the pungent garlic, and the salty, umami-rich Parmesan, all tied together with that incredible sweet and tangy glaze, makes every bite a delight. Enjoy every single succulent slice of your homemade Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf!
Tips for the Best Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:
To ensure your Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is consistently outstanding every time, I’ve gathered a few extra tips that I’ve learned along the way. These little details can make a big difference in texture, flavor, and overall enjoyment.
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Don’t Overmix the Meat:
This is perhaps the most crucial tip for a truly juicy and tender meatloaf. Overworking the ground chicken will develop the proteins too much, resulting in a dense, rubbery, and dry texture. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined. A gentle hand is key here; use your hands for the best feel.
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The Importance of Fresh Ingredients:
While convenience products have their place, for a dish like this, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh minced garlic really elevates the flavor profile. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts and its overall taste, and jarred minced garlic, while convenient, lacks the vibrant pungency of fresh cloves.
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Soak Those Breadcrumbs:
Allowing the Panko breadcrumbs to soak in milk for a few minutes before mixing them in is a small step with a big impact. It ensures they are fully hydrated, contributing maximum moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf, which is essential for that “juicy” designation.
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Temperature Matters:
Room temperature ingredients (like the egg and milk) integrate more smoothly into the meat mixture. While not strictly necessary, taking your ingredients out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before mixing can make a subtle difference in the final texture.
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Don’t Skimp on the Rest Time:
I can’t emphasize this enough! Resting the meatloaf for 10-15 minutes after baking is non-negotiable for juicy results. This allows the internal temperature to stabilize and, most importantly, for the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the loaf. Cutting too early will cause those flavorful juices to spill out, leaving you with a drier slice.
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Achieving the Perfect Glaze:
Applying the glaze in two stages is a trick I swear by. The first layer bakes into the meatloaf, creating a lovely initial crust, while the second layer, applied later with fresh garlic and Parmesan, ensures a vibrant, unbaked-away garlic flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish. This two-step process truly makes the “Garlic Parmesan” aspect of this meatloaf shine.
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Use a Meat Thermometer:
For food safety and to prevent overcooking, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Chicken meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked through without becoming dry.
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Consider a Baking Rack:
If you’re not using a loaf pan, baking your meatloaf on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet allows air to circulate all around, promoting even cooking and helping to develop a delicious crust on the bottom and sides. It also keeps the meatloaf from sitting in any rendered fat, which can make it soggy.
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Leftover Love:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), this Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches the next day. Slice it cold, or gently reheat it, and serve on a toasted bun with a little extra glaze or your favorite condiments. It’s equally delicious!
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through what I truly believe is not just a recipe, but a delightful culinary experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. This isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a promise of comfort, incredible flavor, and a meal that will undoubtedly become a regular request from your family and friends. What makes this recipe an absolute stand-out, a true must-try in my book? It’s the harmonious blend of tender, succulent chicken, infused with the robust aroma of garlic and the salty, savory notes of Parmesan cheese. Every bite delivers on its promise of being incredibly moist and unbelievably flavorful, a far cry from the dry, sometimes bland meatloaves you might have encountered in the past. I poured my heart into perfecting this, ensuring that the moisture content is just right, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines truly great comfort food. This particular rendition, my friends, the Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf, is a game-changer. It redefines what you thought meatloaf could be, transforming it from a simple weeknight staple into a dish that feels special, yet remains wonderfully approachable for any home cook. It’s a recipe designed to impress with minimal fuss.
Now that you’re picturing this masterpiece gracing your dinner table, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment. For me, nothing beats a classic pairing. Imagine a generous slice of this amazing meatloaf nestled beside a fluffy mound of creamy mashed potatoes – perhaps infused with a touch of roasted garlic themselves – ready to soak up any stray juices. Or, if you prefer something lighter, a vibrant green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette would provide a wonderful counterpoint to the rich flavors. Roasted asparagus or green beans, simply seasoned with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt, also make fantastic partners, adding a pop of color and fresh texture. And for those who love a little extra something, a light chicken gravy or even a simple marinara sauce warmed through can elevate the experience even further, though I promise you, this meatloaf is so flavorful, it truly shines on its own. Don’t forget a crusty piece of artisanal bread to mop up every last delicious bit, ensuring not a single drop of flavor is wasted. For a truly indulgent meal, consider pairing it with my favorite crispy roasted potatoes, allowing the meatloaf’s savory notes to sing alongside their perfectly seasoned crunch.
But here’s where the fun really begins – the endless possibilities for customization! While I absolutely adore the core recipe, I encourage you to make it your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider swapping out some of the Parmesan for another cheese you love, like a sharp white cheddar for a tangier kick, or a smoked Gouda for a deeper, more complex flavor profile. You could also experiment with fresh herbs; a handful of finely chopped basil or oregano mixed into the meatloaf blend would introduce a delightful aromatic twist that complements the chicken beautifully. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes would add a subtle warmth without overwhelming the other flavors, creating a pleasant tingle on the palate. Don’t shy away from incorporating finely diced vegetables either – a quarter cup of finely minced bell peppers or even some grated zucchini (a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters!) would blend seamlessly, adding moisture and nutrients without altering the texture significantly. Another fun variation for busy weeknights or portion control is to bake this as mini meatloaves in a muffin tin, adjusting the baking time accordingly. They cook faster and make for perfect individual servings, ideal for meal prepping throughout the week. You could even get creative with the glaze – a sticky balsamic glaze or a smoky barbecue sauce could add another layer of flavor on top, transforming the whole dish into something new and exciting. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; it’s a fantastic canvas for your culinary imagination, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your family’s preferences and whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect twist!
So, my dear food enthusiasts, I urge you, don’t just read about this incredible dish; go make it! This Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly delicious and memorable in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, impressive enough for guests, and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences with slight modifications. I am genuinely excited for you to experience the rich, savory flavors and the wonderfully tender texture that make this recipe so special. It embodies everything I love about home cooking: simplicity, incredible taste, and the joy of sharing a meal. Once you’ve had the pleasure of tasting it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you put your own spin on it? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please, share your stories, your photos, and your feedback in the comments section below. Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see how this beloved meatloaf finds a home in your recipe repertoire, becoming a cherished go-to for years to come. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Redefine your classic dinner with this juicy chicken meatloaf, bursting with savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese. This recipe transforms a humble staple into an extraordinary culinary experience, offering a moist, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
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2 pounds Ground Chicken or ground turkey or lean beef
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1 cup Parmesan Cheese, shredded; or Romano cheese
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1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
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2 large Eggs
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4 cloves Minced Garlic
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1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
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1 teaspoon Onion Powder
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1 teaspoon Dried Basil
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1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
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1 teaspoon Salt
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1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
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1/2 cup Whole Milk or plant milk
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2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted (for topping)
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1/4 cup Additional Parmesan, for sprinkling
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2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper, optionally placing a wire rack. -
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs and milk; let sit for a few minutes. Add 2 large eggs, 1 cup Parmesan cheese, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well. -
Step 3
Add 2 pounds ground chicken (or turkey or lean beef) to the bowl. Gently mix with clean hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix. -
Step 4
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing gently, or form into a 9×5-inch loaf on a baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes. -
Step 5
Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Remove meatloaf from oven, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup additional Parmesan cheese. Return to oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. -
Step 6
Remove from oven, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley and serve.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.