Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a standard loaf pan with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until the onions become translucent. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground chicken, seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Add the beaten egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.
Mix Carefully: Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the greased loaf pan, and shape it into a classic loaf form. Evenly spread the ketchup over the top to create a delicious glaze.
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.
Rest and Slice: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist.
Notes
For an attractive presentation, garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve with roasted vegetables or salad.