Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Packed with 50 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic option for muscle repair and satiety.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Satisfy pizza cravings without the carb-heavy crust.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts
- Tomato sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Italian seasoning
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Add toppings: Spread a layer of tomato sauce over each chicken breast, sprinkle generously with mozzarella, and top with pepperoni slices.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Serve: Enjoy your Pizza Chicken hot with a side salad or roasted veggies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms.
- Different Toppings: Add diced bell peppers, olives, or onions for extra flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for a kick.
- Cheese Swap: Use provolone, cheddar, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well; adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. What type of tomato sauce is best?
Opt for a high-quality marinara or pizza sauce with no added sugar for the best flavor.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free mozzarella alternatives to keep it dairy-free.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Searing the chicken before baking and using a meat thermometer to check doneness can help keep it juicy.
5. What can I serve with Pizza Chicken?
Serve with steamed veggies, a side salad, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
6. Can I cook this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish, store it in the fridge, and bake just before serving.
7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to prevent overcooking.
8. Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, Pizza Chicken is low-carb and fits well into a keto diet.
9. Can I use a different protein?
Turkey breast or pork chops are great substitutes for chicken.
10. How do I add extra flavor?
Add garlic powder, onion powder, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth.
Conclusion
Pizza Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the delicious flavors of pizza while keeping it healthy and high-protein. It’s quick, versatile, and a hit with all ages. Make it your own with various toppings and sides, and enjoy a guilt-free comfort meal any night of the week!
Pizza Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy the best of pizza flavors with a healthier twist! This Pizza Chicken recipe swaps the carb-heavy crust for lean chicken breast, delivering a high-protein, low-carb dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Topped with gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a family-friendly meal that satisfies your cravings guilt-free.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 16 pepperoni slices
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Add toppings: Spread tomato sauce on each chicken breast, sprinkle with mozzarella, and top with pepperoni.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Plate and enjoy hot with your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste by adding garlic powder or chili flakes.
- Perfect for meal prep: store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
