Pizza Chicken

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in Pizza Chicken. I vividly remember the first time I made it for my family on a busy weeknight. With everyone running in different directions, this dish was a lifesaver. I knew I could whip it up quickly while still delivering that comforting taste of pizza, which we all love. The succulent chicken smothered in rich pizza sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella, and finished off with vibrant tomato slices and savory pepperoni was an instant hit! My kids were thrilled, and my husband couldn’t stop praising the meal. It became a regular in our dinner rotation, not just for its flavors but for how effortlessly it comes together.

Every time I make Pizza Chicken, it feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s one of those dishes that brings the family together, making sitting around the dinner table a joyful occasion. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The best part? You can customize it to suit your family’s tastes. You might even find yourself sneaking a piece of chicken before dinner – I know I do! I love seeing everyone enjoy their meal, and hearing their laughter while sharing stories over a delicious dinner makes my heart full.

What’s In This Pizza Chicken

When it comes to Pizza Chicken, the ingredients are what make it shine. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering outstanding flavor and texture. The tender chicken serves as a perfect canvas, soaking up the rich flavors of the pizza sauce and complementing the toppings beautifully. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this delightful dish.

• 4 chicken breasts – The star of the show! Juicy and tender, these provide the protein base for your dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the chicken.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning, ensuring your chicken is flavorful.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps in searing the chicken, adding richness and moisture.
• 1 (14 ounce) jar DeLallo Pizzeria Style Pizza Sauce – The heart of the pizza flavor, bringing that iconic taste to your chicken.
• 2 ounces DeLallo Sliced Pepperoni – A classic pizza topping that adds a savory kick.
• 1 medium tomato, sliced – Fresh and vibrant, adding brightness and freshness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella – Melts perfectly, creating that gooey, cheesy layer we all love.
• Fresh basil, torn/chopped, to taste – Complements the dish with a fragrant touch.

Cooking Instructions for Pizza Chicken

Cooking Pizza Chicken is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Let’s dive into the instructions!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the middle position. This ensures even cooking for your chicken.
2. Season both sides of each piece of chicken with the garlic powder and salt & pepper. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the meat.
3. Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Look for a nice crust forming.
4. Transfer the seared chicken to a 9×13 casserole dish. This will be the base where all the flavors meld.
5. Pour in the pizza sauce and spoon it evenly over and around the chicken. Making sure it’s well-coated is key to achieving that delicious pizza flavor.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella generously over each piece of chicken. You want it to cover the surface, creating that inviting cheesy layer.
7. Top the chicken breasts with the tomato slices and pepperoni. This adds freshness and brings in the classic pizza components.
8. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. If your chicken breasts are smaller, check for doneness around 15 minutes. Larger pieces may need about 25 minutes. Always ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
9. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices, making each bite tender and moist.
10. Finally, sprinkle with freshly torn basil before serving. Enjoy your Pizza Chicken hot, and watch it disappear!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to shake things up with your Pizza Chicken, there are plenty of exciting variations to consider. This dish is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Let’s explore some ideas!

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze your Pizza Chicken before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables for a healthier option.
• Topping Variations: Experiment with different toppings like sliced black olives, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a sweet twist!
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking to give it a spicy finish.
• Cheese Variety: Try using different cheeses such as provolone or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
• Herbs & Spices: Mix in some Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the pizza sauce for added depth of flavor.

Great Combinations for Pizza Chicken

When it comes to enjoying Pizza Chicken, there are endless possibilities for serving it alongside other dishes. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a cozy night in, here are some great combinations to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds the perfect crunch and flavor to your dinner. Serve warm, and let everyone enjoy dipping it into the leftover pizza sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing salad balances out the richness of the Pizza Chicken. The creamy dressing complements the flavors beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can bring a healthy and colorful touch to your plate.
• Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed with olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs can add a delightful side to this dish.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw can provide a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy Pizza Chicken.
• Fruit Salad: A sweet and refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and offer a light finish after the main course.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings and can be served during casual get-togethers or even game nights!

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Pizza Chicken lies in its ability to combine the beloved flavors of pizza with the satisfying heartiness of chicken. This dish brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, making it a perfect choice for family meals. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular night at home, I encourage you to try this recipe. It’s bound to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pizza Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Pizza Chicken is a delicious blend of juicy chicken breasts and rich pizza flavors. Topped with gooey mozzarella and fresh toppings, this easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Make it tonight for a memorable meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 jar (14 ounce) DeLallo Pizzeria Style Pizza Sauce
• 2 ounces DeLallo Sliced Pepperoni
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Fresh basil, torn/chopped, to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the middle position.
2. Season both sides of each piece of chicken with the garlic powder and salt & pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Transfer the seared chicken to a 9×13 casserole dish.
5. Pour in the pizza sauce and spoon it evenly over and around the chicken.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella generously over each piece of chicken.
7. Top the chicken breasts with the tomato slices and pepperoni.
8. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. If your chicken breasts are smaller, check for doneness around 15 minutes.
9. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
10. Finally, sprinkle with freshly torn basil before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you have a large, oven-safe skillet (I suggest at least 12″), you can use it for the recipe instead of transferring it to a casserole dish.
• Tip 2: Always check the doneness of the chicken using a meat thermometer.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add extra toppings based on your preferences!
• Tip 4: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Tip 5: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking for later use.

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Meet Naomi Prince

Cooking is about excitement, and I love taking simple ingredients and turning them into something bold. I work on every aspect of the blog, from brainstorming zesty new combinations to styling the final plate. I tested this recipe in my own home to guarantee it packs the perfect punch of flavor for you.