Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake

It was a busy weeknight, and I found myself with a craving for something comforting yet easy to prepare. That’s when I thought of the Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake. This dish combines all the goodness of pizza with the heartiness of chicken, making it a fantastic meal for the family. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled the house, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, especially when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.

What to Gather for Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake

Gathering the right ingredients for the Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake is essential to achieving that perfect flavor balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the robust pizza sauce to the savory chicken and creamy mozzarella. Together, they create a comforting and satisfying meal.

• 1 jar (14 oz) low-sugar pizza sauce: This will be the flavorful base of your dish. Reducing it to one cup intensifies its flavor, making it a star ingredient.
• 4 very large boneless-skinless chicken breasts: The main protein in this dish, ensuring each bite is succulent and filling.
• 1 T olive oil: Used for browning the chicken, adding a rich layer of flavor.
• 1 tsp. Greek oregano: This herb gives a fragrant twist that complements the pizza theme perfectly.
• 1 tsp. garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste, making it more aromatic.
• 6 oz. piece of Mozzarella: Essential for that gooey, stretchy cheese topping we all love.
• 2 oz. sliced pepperoni: Adds that classic pizza flavor and a satisfying crunch.

How to Cook Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake

Cooking the Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary master in your own kitchen. Follow these simple steps and watch as your dish transforms into a cheesy, flavorful delight.

1. Preheat your oven to 400F/200C. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and browning later on.
2. In a small saucepan, put the pizza sauce and simmer it over low heat until it reduces to one cup. This usually takes about twenty minutes. Don’t skip this step; a watery sauce will ruin your dish.
3. While the sauce reduces, take the chicken breasts and trim off any excess fat. Cut each breast crosswise into two pieces for even cooking.
4. Next, place each piece inside a heavy plastic bag and use a meat mallet to pound the chicken until it’s as thin as you can manage without shredding it apart. This makes for tender and juicy chicken.
5. Mix the Greek oregano and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously on both sides of your chicken pieces.
6. Heat the olive oil in the largest non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. If your pan isn’t big enough, you may need to do this in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for one to two minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned but not fully cooked.
8. Choose a small glass casserole dish that will fit all the browned chicken pieces in a single layer. Arrange the chicken neatly in the dish.
9. Slice the Mozzarella and distribute the slices over the top of each piece of chicken, covering them mostly.
10. By now, your sauce should be reduced; spread it generously over the chicken. Use it all to ensure maximum flavor!
11. Top each piece with pepperoni slices, ensuring they’re placed to cover as much of the chicken as possible.
12. Finally, bake the casserole uncovered for about twenty-five to thirty minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese has melted and started to brown, and the pepperoni is slightly crisped. Serve hot and enjoy!
13. This dish is excellent reheated in the microwave for a few minutes, although you might not have any leftovers!

Recipe Tips about Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake

Having a few tips up your sleeve can make all the difference in perfecting your Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake. Here are some practical insights to ensure your dish turns out amazing!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual portions of the cooked dish. Just make sure to seal them well in freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Customization: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bell peppers or mushrooms to the chicken before baking.
• Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping; it adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serve This Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake With

When it comes to serving the Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings to consider:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: The crunch and flavor of garlic bread are perfect for dipping into the sauce.
• Pasta Salad: A refreshing pasta salad can add a different texture and flavor that balances the heartiness of the bake.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables can add a healthy side, bringing color and nutrients to your meal.
• For Game Nights: This dish is a hit during game nights or casual dinners, making it feel like a celebration!
• Lunch Option: Serve it for lunch with a side of fruit for a balanced meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake is a delightful twist on dinner that brings flavors everyone loves together in a healthy way. It’s perfect for a cozy family night or a casual gathering with friends. I encourage you to try this dish, and I promise it will become a favorite in your household!

Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake

The ultimate comfort food! The Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake combines juicy chicken with rich pizza sauce and gooey cheese for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfectly baked and loaded with flavor, you won’t want to miss out on this delicious dish!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup low-sugar pizza sauce reduced from a 14 oz jar
• 4 breasts boneless-skinless chicken at least 8 oz each
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Greek oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 6 ounces Mozzarella sliced about 1/4 inch thick
• 2 ounces pepperoni sliced

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400F/200C.
2. In a small saucepan, put the pizza sauce and simmer it over low heat until it reduces to one cup. This usually takes about twenty minutes. Don’t skip this step; a watery sauce will ruin your dish.
3. While the sauce reduces, take the chicken breasts and trim off any excess fat. Cut each breast crosswise into two pieces for even cooking.
4. Next, place each piece inside a heavy plastic bag and use a meat mallet to pound the chicken until it's as thin as you can manage without shredding it apart. This makes for tender and juicy chicken.
5. Mix the Greek oregano and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously on both sides of your chicken pieces.
6. Heat the olive oil in the largest non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. If your pan isn’t big enough, you may need to do this in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for one to two minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned but not fully cooked.
8. Choose a small glass casserole dish that will fit all the browned chicken pieces in a single layer. Arrange the chicken neatly in the dish.
9. Slice the Mozzarella and distribute the slices over the top of each piece of chicken, covering them mostly.
10. By now, your sauce should be reduced; spread it generously over the chicken. Use it all to ensure maximum flavor!
11. Top each piece with pepperoni slices, ensuring they’re placed to cover as much of the chicken as possible.
12. Finally, bake the casserole uncovered for about twenty-five to thirty minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese has melted and started to brown, and the pepperoni is slightly crisped. Serve hot and enjoy!
13. This dish is excellent reheated in the microwave for a few minutes, although you might not have any leftovers!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual portions of the cooked dish. Just make sure to seal them well in freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Customization: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bell peppers or mushrooms to the chicken before baking.
• Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping; it adds an extra layer of flavor.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.