Description
Succulent chicken breasts become a flavor-packed canvas for pizza stuffed chicken, merging Italian-inspired comfort with protein-rich delight. Melted cheese, zesty marinara, and crispy pepperoni create a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ounces (56 grams) pepperoni slices
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Sauces:
- 1/3 cup marinara (or pesto)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven or air fryer by heating to 425℉ (220℃), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, creating a pocket-like opening without completely separating the halves.
- Generously season the interior of the chicken with salt and pepper, then spread a layer of marinara sauce inside each breast.
- Distribute mozzarella cheese evenly across the marinara-coated interior, followed by arranging pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
- Gently fold the chicken breast closed, pressing the edges to seal in the filling and create a compact stuffed chicken package.
- Combine parmesan cheese with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Sprinkle the herb and cheese mixture over the exterior of the stuffed chicken, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Cook in the preheated oven or air fryer until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165℉ (75℃), which typically takes 20-25 minutes in the oven or 18-20 minutes in the air fryer.
- Remove from heat, let rest briefly, then serve immediately while the cheese is melted and the chicken is piping hot.
Notes
- Butterfly chicken breasts carefully to create an even pocket without cutting completely through, ensuring a perfect stuffing surface.
- Opt for low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess liquid during cooking, keeping the chicken crispy and preventing sogginess.
- Customize the seasoning blend by adjusting spice levels or replacing herbs based on personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the spice mixture adhere better and create a more flavorful, crisp exterior when baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3
- Calories: 487
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1150 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg