Imagine biting into a juicy chicken breast filled to the brim with gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner: Stuffed Pizza Chicken Bake! This Italian-inspired dish combines the best of pizza and chicken in a delightful, cheesy package that will have your family begging for seconds. With just 15 minutes of prep and a mere 25 minutes in the oven, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your dinner game with this easy, delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a deep pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both the outside and inside of the chicken pockets with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with pepperoni slices and shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring the filling is compact and evenly distributed.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, covering them completely.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce for extra cheesiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing and even cooking. If they’re particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent results.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! Add your favorite pizza toppings like sliced olives, bell peppers, or even cooked sausage to make it your own.
- Don’t Rush the Resting Time: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with garlic bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. A side of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs complements the flavors beautifully.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and delicious results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 440kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 43g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
