Pizza Chicken

Pizza Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings all the flavors of a classic pizza—tomato sauce, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings—onto juicy chicken breasts. It’s a low-carb, family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the best pizza flavors without the crust
• Low-carb and gluten-free by default
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
• Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Pizza or marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, fresh basil

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Optional: Sear the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Spoon pizza sauce over each piece.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella and your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes
• Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Stuffed Pizza Chicken: Butterfly the chicken and fill with cheese and sauce before baking.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Style: Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara and top with red onions and smoked gouda.
• Veggie Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
• Parmesan Crust: Coat chicken with a mix of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in a covered skillet until heated through.
• Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the texture of the chicken and cheese.
• Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in the cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and cook more quickly than breasts.

2. Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

No, but it adds flavor and helps the chicken cook more evenly.

3. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella is classic, but you can also use provolone, gouda, or a pizza blend.

4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything and store in the fridge. Bake just before serving.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your sauce and toppings are gluten-free.

6. What sides go well with pizza chicken?

Try a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

8. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Yes, grill until nearly cooked, then top with sauce and cheese and finish under a broiler or in a covered grill.

9. How do I prevent soggy chicken?

Don’t use too much sauce, and bake uncovered to let moisture escape.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s better fresh, but you can freeze cooked chicken without toppings and add fresh sauce and cheese when reheating.

Conclusion

Pizza Chicken is the perfect fusion of comfort food and healthy eating. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re cutting carbs or just want a new spin on chicken dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

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