Enjoy a delicious and easy Pizza Stuffed Chicken recipe with all the pizza flavors and none of the carbs. A quick, high-protein, gluten-free meal ready in minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb and keto-friendly – All the flavors of pizza without the carbs from the crust.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
- Air fryer and oven-friendly – Cook it whichever way suits you best.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, flavorful dish.
- Great for meal prep – Store leftovers for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
Ingredients
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/3 cup marinara sauce (or pesto)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 oz pepperoni slices
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Top Crust:
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise, keeping it intact to create a flap or “book” shape. Season the inside of each piece with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce inside each chicken breast. Add 1/3 cup of shredded mozzarella and top with approximately 7 slices of pepperoni. Fold the chicken flap over and press down gently. Season the tops of the chicken with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and dried oregano until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or in the air fryer for 18-20 minutes, until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 3 servings
- Calories per serving: 389 kcal
Variations
- Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers inside the chicken.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in provolone or cheddar along with the mozzarella.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni for some heat.
- BBQ Flavor: Swap marinara for BBQ sauce and use cheddar cheese.
- Buffalo Style: Use buffalo sauce instead of marinara and add crumbled blue cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well but may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
What’s the best way to keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the Parmesan topping.
What’s the best marinara sauce to use?
Opt for a sugar-free or homemade marinara sauce for a healthier option.
Can I prep this meal in advance?
Yes! Assemble the stuffed chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the chicken is properly sealed by securing it with toothpicks if necessary.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, cook over medium heat in a covered pan for about 8-10 minutes per side.
What sides go well with this dish?
Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Can I use different pizza toppings?
Absolutely! Try olives, mushrooms, ham, or even pineapple for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Easy Pizza Stuffed Chicken is a delicious, low-carb way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the guilt. Whether you bake it in the oven or cook it in the air fryer, this meal is quick, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or satisfying your pizza cravings in a healthier way!
Further Recipes to Try
If you loved this Pizza Stuffed Chicken, here are more delicious recipes to keep your meals exciting:
- Try a Mediterranean-inspired twist with these Zaatar Chicken Wings – A Flavorful Twist, baked to crispy perfection.
- Need a creamy, satisfying pasta? This Delicious and Creamy Quick Boursin Chicken Pasta is a must-try!
- Want more cheesy goodness? These Flavor-Packed Chicken Skewers are loaded with rich, smoky flavors.
- For a comforting, hearty meal, pair your dish with Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.
- Don’t forget dessert! This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is soft, fluffy, and perfect with coffee or tea.
Enjoy experimenting with these flavor-packed recipes!
Print
Easy Pizza Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a delicious and easy Pizza Stuffed Chicken recipe with all the pizza flavors and none of the carbs. A quick, high-protein, gluten-free meal ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup marinara sauce (or pesto)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz pepperoni slices
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Top Crust:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise, keeping them intact like a “book.” Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread 2 tbsp marinara inside each chicken breast, add mozzarella and pepperoni, then fold over.
- Mix Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano; sprinkle over chicken.
- Bake for 20-25 min or air fry for 18-20 min until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Substitute marinara with pesto for a unique twist.
- Use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired