Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepperoni Chicken is a bold, cheesy, and saucy dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with juicy, tender chicken breasts. Topped with marinara, melted mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni, it’s a simple yet irresistible meal that’s perfect for weeknights or satisfying a pizza craving without the crust.

ingredients

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

boneless, skinless chicken breastsolive oilsalt and peppergarlic powderItalian seasoningmarinara saucemozzarella cheese (shredded or sliced)pepperonifresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.

Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden.

Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.

Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with mozzarella and a few slices of pepperoni.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives under the cheese for a pizza supreme twist.

Use provolone or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

Make it spicy with hot pepperoni or red pepper flakes.

Swap marinara with pesto for a fresh herby variation.

Serve over pasta, rice, or garlic bread for a hearty meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Pepperoni Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.Not recommended for freezing once assembled due to texture changes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, just ensure your marinara sauce is low in added sugar.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, sear the chicken and assemble the dish ahead, then bake when ready.

Do I have to sear the chicken first?

Searing adds flavor, but you can skip it for convenience—just bake a bit longer.

What kind of pepperoni should I use?

Use standard or mini pepperoni, or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.

Can I make it in a skillet?

Yes, if oven-safe, assemble and bake directly in the same pan.

Does it taste like pizza?

Yes, it’s like pizza meets chicken parmesan in one bite.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely—load it up for extra indulgence.

Is it kid-friendly?

Very! It’s a favorite for kids who love pizza flavors.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based cheese alternatives and check the pepperoni ingredients.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Chicken is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick to make and loaded with cheesy, saucy goodness. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a fun twist on baked chicken, this recipe delivers all the satisfaction of pizza night in a low-carb, protein-packed form.