Name: Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 large boneless (skinless chicken breasts (~1 lb)); Salt (to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara); 1½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 15 –20 slices pepperoni; Optional: Italian seasoning or dried oregano; Optional: sliced onions (bell peppers, or mushrooms)

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Experience a delightful fusion of two classic favorites with these Chicken & Pepperoni Pizza Melts. This simple yet satisfying dish blends tender, juicy chicken breasts with zesty pizza sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and flavorful pepperoni slices for a comforting meal that’s both fun and delicious.

Whether you bake them in the oven or prepare them in a skillet, these melts offer a perfect balance of textures and tastes — rich, cheesy, slightly crispy, and packed with robust Italian-inspired flavors that will appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Combines the best elements of pizza and melt sandwiches in a single dish.
Customizable with your favorite toppings and seasonings for added variety.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large or approx. 500g): Provides a lean, juicy protein base that holds toppings perfectly.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken enhancing its natural flavor.
Pizza sauce (1 cup or about 240 ml): Adds a tangy, herby tomato flavor that complements the chicken and cheese beautifully.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1½ to 2 cups): Creates a rich, gooey, melty topping that seals in moisture and flavor.
Pepperoni slices (15–20 pieces): Offers a spicy, savory kick with a satisfying crispness when baked.
Italian seasoning or dried oregano/herbs (optional): Adds aromatic depth and classic Italian flavor notes.
Sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms (optional): Introduce extra texture, flavor, and nutrition if desired.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning if using to infuse extra flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to about 200 °C (400 °F). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a lightly greased dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Thicker breasts may need extra cooking time, or you can slice them thinner before baking for faster results.
Assemble the Melts: Remove the cooked chicken from the oven and spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, then arrange pepperoni slices to cover the cheese. Add optional veggies like sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms if you desire to boost flavor and texture.
Bake to Melt & Brown: Return the assembled melts to the oven and bake an additional 8–10 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the pepperoni edges start crisping up, releasing their flavorful oils.
Serve: Once baked, let the melts rest for 2–3 minutes to settle before serving. Enjoy hot alongside a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

You Must Know

For sharper flavor, mix mozzarella with cheddar or a cheese blend before topping.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce on the cheese for a spicy kick if desired.
Serve melts over salad greens or with roasted veggies to lighten up the meal or stretch portions.
Substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, or vegetarian alternatives as you prefer.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, preferably in the oven to maintain melted cheese texture.

Serving Suggestions

These melts pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A side of marinara dipping sauce also complements the pizza flavor perfectly.

Professional Tips

For even cooking, ensure chicken breasts are pounded to uniform thickness before baking.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-shredded for better melting quality.
Consider broiling for 1–2 minutes at the end if you want extra bubbly and browned cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful melt but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?: Definitely! Cook the chicken in a skillet until done, then add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Cover with a lid until cheese melts.
What if I don’t have pizza sauce?: Marinara or tomato-based pasta sauces work well as a substitute providing similar savory flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?: You can assemble melts in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking to save time.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?: Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, or use a microwave with a damp paper towel over the melts.