Sizzling Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Recipe

My latest skillet cheesy pepperoni pizza chicken creation promises a delightful twist on classic comfort food.

Melted cheese and crispy pepperoni dance across tender chicken in a single pan.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying solutions that pack maximum flavor.

Skillful home cooks appreciate meals combining familiar ingredients with unexpected techniques.

No complicated steps or fancy equipment stand between you and this mouthwatering dish.

Simple pantry staples transform an ordinary chicken dinner into something extraordinary.

One bite will convince you this recipe belongs in your regular meal rotation.

Ingredients For Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

• Chicken: Lean protein that serves as the base for this skillet pizza-inspired dish.
• Pepperoni: Spicy cured meat that adds classic pizza flavor and crispy texture.

• Plain Yogurt, Panko Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Create a crispy, flavorful exterior for the chicken.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Enhance the seasoning of the breadcrumb coating.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides creamy, melty texture typical of pizza.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds fresh herb flavor and aromatic element.

• Olive Oil: Used for cooking and creating a rich cooking base.
• Garlic, Oregano, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Provide traditional Italian-style seasonings.
• Tomato Paste, Cherry Tomatoes: Create a light, fresh tomato sauce base.
• Vodka: Adds depth and helps develop sauce flavors.

How To Cook Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Coating

Crank the oven to 425°F.

Create a yogurt dipping station in one bowl.

In another bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the crumbs for extra flavor.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts horizontally, keeping one edge intact.

Spread the chicken open like a book.

• Mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaf

Close the chicken, sealing the delicious filling inside.

Dip each piece in yogurt, then coat thoroughly with seasoned Panko mixture.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Remove and season with salt.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

• Remaining oil
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes

Sauté until garlic becomes fragrant.

Stir in tomato paste.

Pour in vodka and water.

Add cherry tomatoes and simmer for 5-8 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Nestle chicken into the tomato sauce.

Sprinkle additional cheese around the chicken.

Top with pepperoni slices.

Slide the skillet into the oven and bake for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese melts beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with remaining cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.

Plate up this mouthwatering pizza-inspired chicken dish and savor every bite!

Tips For Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

• Cut chicken horizontally but not all the way through, creating a butterfly effect for even cooking and maximum cheese stuffing.
• Press Panko crumbs firmly onto chicken to create a super crunchy exterior that locks in moisture and adds delicious texture.
• Pat chicken dry before coating to ensure the yogurt and breadcrumb mixture adheres perfectly and creates a golden, crisp crust.
• Let cherry tomatoes cook down in vodka sauce to create a rich, concentrated flavor that complements the cheesy chicken beautifully.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella for the most even and creamy cheese coverage that melts smoothly over the chicken.

Flavor Options For Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

• Gluten-Free Variation: Replace Panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain crispy coating.
• Low-Carb Keto Option: Swap Panko with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Skip tomato paste and use fewer cherry tomatoes to reduce carbohydrate content. Choose full-fat mozzarella for increased fat profile.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute chicken with thick portobello mushroom caps or firm tofu steaks. Maintain original seasoning and cooking method while keeping pizza-inspired flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Spin: Replace pepperoni with sliced kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. Add fresh oregano and swap vodka with white wine for a Greek-inspired transformation.

Pairing Suggestions For Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

• Pizza Party Plate: Create a fun, colorful side arrangement with extra cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of grated parmesan to complement the cheesy chicken.
• Crispy Companion: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or garlic bread to balance the rich, cheesy flavors of the main dish.
• Wine & Dine Pairing: Complement the robust pepperoni and tomato sauce with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc for a sophisticated meal experience.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the aromatic elements and add a bright, fresh touch to the dish.

Proper Storage For Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Chicken

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container seals tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Chicken will keep well for 2-3 months without losing quality.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warmed through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth. Cover with foil to retain moisture, warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey breast or pork cutlets. Adjust cooking time based on the meat’s thickness and ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

This dish offers a balanced meal with protein from chicken, calcium from cheese, and lycopene from tomatoes. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional pizza with a protein-packed twist.

• How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use yogurt as a coating to keep the chicken moist. Don’t overcook the chicken and ensure you slice it carefully to create an even thickness for consistent cooking.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Highlights

• Dive into Pizza Perfection: Combine the beloved flavors of pizza with tender chicken for a mouthwatering meal that brings excitement to the dinner table.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to match your family's taste preferences, making this recipe incredibly versatile and adaptable.
• Quick Skillet-to-Oven Magic: Prepare this dish in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience for busy home cooks who want delicious results without complicated steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with cheesy goodness, pepperoni, and classic Italian seasonings, this chicken recipe appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Skillet Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Skillet cheesy pepperoni pizza chicken brings Italian-American comfort to your dinner table, blending classic pizza flavors with tender chicken. Melted cheese, crispy pepperoni, and zesty marinara sauce create a mouthwatering one-pan meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Cheese:

• 2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces dry mozzarella cheese (torn)

Breading and Herbs:

• 1 1/3 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/2 cup fresh basil (plus more for serving)

Tomato and Sauce Components:

• 2 1/2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup vodka (or wine, or water)

Seasoning and Spices:

• 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• kosher salt
• black pepper

Liquid and Fat:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Protein Topping:

• 3 ounces pepperoni sliced

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Instructions

1. Prepare the breading station by mixing Panko and parmesan in one shallow bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper. Place yogurt in another shallow bowl.
2. Butterfly the chicken by slicing horizontally, leaving a half-inch intact edge. Open the chicken like a book, layer mozzarella and a basil leaf on one side.
3. Close the chicken, sealing the cheese and basil inside. Dredge each side thoroughly in yogurt, then coat completely with seasoned Panko mixture, pressing crumbs gently to adhere.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and season lightly with salt.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining oil, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with vodka and water.
6. Add cherry tomatoes and simmer for 5-8 minutes over low heat. Nestle chicken into the tomato sauce.
7. Distribute remaining mozzarella around the chicken and top with pepperoni slices. Transfer skillet to a 425°F oven.
8. Bake for 10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and remaining cherry tomatoes before serving.

Notes

• Customize the yogurt coating by using Greek yogurt for extra tanginess and protein boost.
• Try different cheese combinations like provolone or fontina for unique flavor profiles.
• Pat chicken dry before coating to ensure crispy, golden breading that sticks perfectly.
• Swap pepperoni with prosciutto or vegetarian salami for alternative dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 810 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 1100 mg
• Fat: 54 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 32 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 63 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg