Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepperoni Chicken is a bold and savory twist on classic chicken Parmesan, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce, topped with slices of pepperoni and plenty of melted mozzarella. This dish combines the best of pizza and baked chicken into one easy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breastspepperonimarinara sauceshredded mozzarella cheeseParmesan cheesegarlic powderonion powderItalian seasoningsalt and black pepperolive oilfresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for quick and uniform cooking.

Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden (it will finish cooking in the oven).

Transfer chicken to the prepared baking dish.

Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken.

Layer with shredded mozzarella and slices of pepperoni.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake uncovered for 18-22 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesSearing time: 5 minutesBaking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use turkey pepperoni or plant-based pepperoni for a lighter version.

Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms beneath the cheese.

Swap marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for extra heat.

Use provolone or a mozzarella-cheddar blend for different flavor profiles.

Serve over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave in short intervals.Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw and reheat in the oven for best texture.

FAQs

Can I skip searing the chicken?

You can, but searing adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.

What kind of pepperoni should I use?

Standard or thinly sliced pepperoni works best. Avoid thick-cut for even melting.

Is this dish spicy?

Not typically, but spicy pepperoni or sauce can turn up the heat.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, just adjust the baking time slightly based on thickness.

Do I need to cover the dish while baking?

No, baking uncovered helps the cheese brown and the pepperoni crisp up.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes—assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What cheese melts best?

Low-moisture mozzarella melts evenly and gives that classic stretchy texture.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Don’t overbake—use a meat thermometer and pull it at 165°F (74°C).

Can I make it keto-friendly?

Yes, use sugar-free marinara and serve with a low-carb side.

What sides go well with this?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or pasta are great options.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Chicken is a fun, family-friendly meal that combines the comforting elements of Italian-American favorites into one irresistible dish. With its melty cheese, savory sauce, and zesty pepperoni topping, this easy bake is sure to become a go-to for busy nights and happy appetites.