Baked Pepperoni Pizza Chicken
This delectable dish combines succulent chicken with aromatic marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a perfect dinner option to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy, these form the heart of the dish.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Rich and aromatic, this sauce is the perfect canvas for the layers of flavor to unfold.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A fragrant blend that adds a dash of authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds compelling depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Offers a touch of sweetness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Creamy and melty, blankets the chicken.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices Adds a spicy punch.
- 1 large tomato, sliced Adds freshness and color.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds richness and helps in achieving a perfect golden finish.
- fresh leaves basil leaves for garnish Beautifies the dish and adds aroma.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a baking dish, using a spatula to ensure an even coat.
- Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, ensuring space between each piece for even cooking.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara-covered chicken.
- Place the pepperoni slices over the cheese, then arrange the fresh tomato slices on top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature hits 165 degrees F (75 degrees C).
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F (75 degrees C) for safe consumption. You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.