Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts
Introduction
If pizza and a cheesy chicken sandwich had a love child, you’d get these Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are topped with marinara, loads of melted mozzarella, and pepperoni, then toasted until gooey and irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or when you’re craving pizza but want something a little more protein-packed. You can make them in the oven, air fryer, or even on the stovetop—fast, cheesy comfort food at its best.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Pizza Topping
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
20–24 slices pepperoni
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Season and Cook the Chicken (12–15 minutes)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) (or preheat air fryer to 375°F / 190°C).
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Rub both sides with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Oven method: Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Air fryer method: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully cooked.
Add the Pizza Toppings (5 minutes)
Spoon marinara evenly over each cooked chicken breast.
Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Melt and Brown the Cheese (3–5 minutes)
Oven: Switch to broil setting and broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Air fryer: Air fry at 375°F for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and pepperoni edges curl slightly.
Tips for Best Results
Pound chicken to even thickness so it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a supreme pizza twist.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted veggies. These also work well as open-faced sandwich melts on toasted baguette slices.