Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option? This Chicken Pizza Bake recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with flavorful ingredients and simple to prepare, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of juicy chicken, gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and savory pepperoni creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of this Chicken Pizza Bake ahead of time for easy meal planning throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tablespoon of olive oil
- Teaspoons of Italian seasoning (divided, or more to taste)
- Pizza sauce (or substitute Rao’s marinara for dairy-free)
- Thick slices of mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese of choice)
- Sliced pepperonis (regular or turkey)
- Fresh basil leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to °F. Grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken breasts until browned but only partially cooked.
- Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, top with pizza sauce, cheese, pepperoni, and remaining seasoning.
- Bake until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a crispier crust, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Customize toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Chicken Pizza Bake with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts in this recipe.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Can I freeze this Chicken Pizza Bake? Yes, you can freeze individual portions for later enjoyment.
Conclusion:
Try this Chicken Pizza Bake recipe for a tasty and easy-to-make meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy this delicious dish!
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Chicken Pizza Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Pizza Bake Recipe is a delicious twist on traditional pizza, featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with pizza sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and savory pepperoni. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided, or more to taste)
- 1 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or sub Rao’s marinara for dairy-free)
- 4–5 thick slices mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese of choice)
- 1/3 cup sliced pepperonis (regular or turkey)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a baking dish with non-stick spray and season the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the chicken breasts.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the baking dish, top with pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven, garnish with basil, and serve.
Notes
- Cheese Substitution: You can use shredded mozzarella cheese instead of slices.
- Vegetable Toppings: Add low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.