Tired of the same old dinner routine? This Chicken Pepperoni recipe offers a delicious and exciting twist on classic chicken parmesan, infusing it with the beloved flavors of pepperoni pizza. Imagine succulent chicken breasts, cooked to a perfect crispy golden-brown, then generously topped with a vibrant, simple tomato sauce, a melted blanket of rich cheese, and a liberal scattering of savory pepperoni slices. This innovative dish is not just incredibly flavorful but also remarkably straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal candidate for busy weeknights when you need a meal that both kids and adults will enthusiastically devour. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Italian-American comfort right to your dinner table.
Love the savory kick of pepperoni? You can easily save some for other family favorites like these quick and easy Pizza Bagels or these delightful Pepperoni Pinwheels.
Chicken Pepperoni: The Ultimate Weeknight Mashup Meal
There’s nothing quite like a fantastic culinary mashup that takes two beloved dishes and combines them into something even greater. Our Chicken Pepperoni is a stellar example of such a creation, taking the comforting essence of classic Chicken Parmesan and infusing it with the universally adored zest of pepperoni pizza. This innovative pairing results in a dish that is not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably fun to eat. It’s the kind of meal that sparks joy at the dinner table, making it a standout choice for families everywhere.
Imagine the best of both worlds: the tender, perfectly crispy chicken of a well-made chicken parm, layered with a rich, aromatic tomato sauce, draped in gooey, melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, and then crowned with slices of savory, slightly crisped pepperoni. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience! It’s straightforward enough to whip up on a busy Tuesday night, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, its unique flavor profile ensures that both picky eaters and sophisticated palates will find something to love. This Chicken Pepperoni truly is a winner all around, designed to make your meal planning easier and your dinners more exciting!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Pepperoni
Crafting this delightful Chicken Pepperoni dish requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving its signature flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best quality components:
- Chicken: For this recipe, you’ll need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ideally weighing between 8-10 ounces each. These will be horizontally cut in half to create four thinner cutlets, which not only cook faster but also ensure maximum crispiness and an optimal sauce-to-chicken ratio in each serving. Look for fresh chicken breasts that are plump and free from blemishes.
- Eggs: Two large eggs are essential for creating the perfect binding agent for our breading. They help the flour and panko adhere to the chicken, forming that crucial crispy crust. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for easier whisking and better coating.
- Milk: Any type of milk works beautifully here – whole, skim, or even unsweetened non-dairy options like almond or oat milk. The key is to use a milk that isn’t sweet, as it’s meant to complement the savory profile of the dish and help loosen the egg mixture for a smooth, even coating.
- Flour: About a quarter cup of all-purpose flour is needed for the first layer of the breading process. This initial dredge creates a dry surface that allows the egg wash to stick properly, which in turn helps the panko breadcrumbs adhere for ultimate crispiness. Ensure you shake off any excess flour before dipping.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are truly the secret weapon for achieving an extra-crispy exterior on your chicken. Their larger, flakier texture absorbs less oil and delivers a much crunchier bite compared to traditional breadcrumbs. While regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, panko is highly recommended for that superior texture.
- Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal for frying the chicken until golden and crispy. Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices. You’ll need enough to create about a half-inch layer in your skillet, ensuring the chicken fries evenly.
- Tomato Sauce: A 15-ounce can of plain tomato sauce forms the base of our savory topping. For a shortcut, you could also use your favorite prepared marinara sauce, simply omitting the additional Italian spices if the marinara is already well-seasoned. The quality of your sauce can significantly impact the overall flavor.
- Spices: A classic Italian blend of dried basil, oregano, and parsley elevates the simple tomato sauce, adding depth and aromatic complexity. These spices are typical for Italian-inspired dishes and bring out the best in the chicken and pepperoni.
- Cheese: This recipe calls for a delightful combination of both mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Freshly grated mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that classic gooey texture, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, salty depth of flavor that complements the richness of the dish. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses if possible, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
- Pepperoni: The star twist of this dish! You can use regular-sized pepperoni slices, which you’ll then cut into quarters for easier distribution and a more even pepperoni flavor in every bite. Alternatively, mini pepperoni slices are a convenient option if you can find them, saving you a chopping step.
- Parsley: A final garnish of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant color but also provides a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish and ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Master Chicken Pepperoni: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this irresistible Chicken Pepperoni dish is surprisingly simple, transforming humble ingredients into a family-favorite meal. Follow these detailed steps for a perfectly crispy and flavorful result:
STEP 1: Prepare Your Chicken Cutlets. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s ready for the final melty cheese stage. Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and lay it flat on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast in half horizontally, through the thickest part. This technique, often called butterflying or creating cutlets, yields two thinner pieces from each breast, resulting in four uniform cutlets that will cook quickly and evenly. Thinner pieces also mean more surface area for that delicious crispy coating!
STEP 2: Season the Chicken. Once you have your four chicken cutlets, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it forms the foundational flavor of the chicken itself, ensuring it’s delicious even before adding sauce and cheese.
STEP 3: Set Up Your Breading Stations. Arrange three shallow bowls or pie plates in an assembly line. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk until well combined and slightly frothy. In the third bowl, pour the 1 1/2 cups of panko breadcrumbs. This setup streamlines the breading process and keeps your kitchen organized.
STEP 4: Dredge in Flour. Take one seasoned chicken cutlet and fully immerse it in the flour, ensuring both sides are completely coated. Gently shake off any excess flour; you want a thin, even layer, not clumps. This flour layer helps the egg mixture adhere better.
STEP 5: Dip in Egg Wash. Immediately after flouring, transfer the chicken to the egg and milk mixture. Turn it over to ensure it’s thoroughly coated on all sides. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next stage.
STEP 6: Coat with Panko. Finally, place the egg-coated chicken into the panko breadcrumbs. Press the panko firmly into both sides of the chicken with your hands to ensure maximum adhesion. This creates that wonderfully crispy crust we’re aiming for. Repeat this breading process for the remaining three chicken cutlets.
STEP 7: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection. In a large, oven-proof heavy-duty skillet (like a cast iron pan), heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small sprinkle of panko sizzles immediately upon contact. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to cook them in two batches. Fry each side until it’s beautifully golden brown, crispy, and the chicken is cooked through, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side, totaling approximately 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Carefully discard the hot oil. (See our important tips below regarding oil disposal!) Return the cooked chicken back into the clean skillet.
STEP 8: Prepare the Zesty Tomato Sauce. While your chicken is frying, combine the 15 ounces of tomato sauce with 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, dried oregano, and dried parsley in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it’s warmed through and fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This quick sauce assembly ensures everything is ready at the same time.
STEP 9: Drench in Sauce. Once the chicken is back in the skillet, pour the prepared tomato sauce evenly over each piece of crispy chicken. Ensure every cutlet is generously coated with the flavorful sauce, providing the perfect foundation for the cheese and pepperoni.
STEP 10: Layer with Cheese and Pepperoni. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated mozzarella cheese over each chicken piece, ensuring a good, even layer. Follow this with a scattering of freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra kick of flavor. Finally, divide the chopped pepperoni pieces among the chicken cutlets, arranging them attractively over the cheese. The pepperoni will slightly crisp up in the oven, releasing its savory oils.
STEP 11: Bake to Melted Perfection. Transfer the skillet directly to your preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheeses are beautifully melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni is slightly crisped and fragrant. The high heat ensures quick melting and delightful browning.
Pro Tips and Smart Tricks for Your Chicken Pepperoni
To ensure your Chicken Pepperoni turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips and tricks:
- Handling Hot Oil Safely: The oil in the skillet will be *very* hot after frying. It’s crucial to discard it carefully and safely. Never pour hot oil down the drain, as it can clog pipes and harm the environment. Allow the oil to cool completely in the skillet, then transfer it to a disposable container (like an old milk carton or glass jar) and dispose of it with your regular trash.
- Alternative Baking Method: If you prefer to avoid the hassle of discarding hot oil from your skillet and cleaning it before the final bake, there’s an easy workaround. After frying the chicken, transfer the crispy cutlets directly to a baking dish. Then, proceed with topping them with the sauce, cheeses, and pepperoni before transferring the baking dish to the oven. This method is equally effective and perhaps more convenient for some.
- Cheese Selection: While shredded mozzarella is convenient and melts well, using fresh mozzarella (sliced or torn) can elevate the dish with its creamy texture and richer flavor. Experiment with different types of mozzarella to find your favorite. For the Parmesan, always opt for freshly grated over pre-grated for superior flavor and melting qualities.
- Ensure Even Cooking: To ensure your chicken cooks through without burning the breading, make sure your chicken cutlets are of uniform thickness. If some pieces are thicker than others, they may cook unevenly. Pound any thicker parts slightly if needed.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken rather than crispy. Give each piece enough space to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Make Ahead & Storage: You can prepare the breaded chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them raw in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or even freeze them for longer storage (thaw before frying). Leftovers of the finished dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or an air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Serving Temperature: For the best experience, serve the Chicken Pepperoni immediately after it comes out of the oven, allowing the melted cheese and crispy pepperoni to be enjoyed at their peak.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pepperoni
This Chicken Pepperoni is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can truly complete the dining experience. Here are some delectable serving suggestions:
- Classic Spaghetti: One of our favorite ways to serve Chicken Pepperoni is alongside a generous helping of cooked spaghetti. Since the chicken doesn’t create a lot of extra sauce, we typically toss the spaghetti with a bit of butter, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The simple pasta perfectly balances the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese. You could also serve it with a light marinara on the side if you prefer more sauce.
- Fresh Green Beans with Cherry Tomatoes: For a lighter, healthier accompaniment, sautéed green beans with vibrant cherry tomatoes offer a wonderful contrast. The crisp-tender texture of the beans and the burst of sweetness from the tomatoes provide a fresh, garden-inspired element that cuts through the richness of the chicken. A sprinkle of garlic and a dash of olive oil are all you need. You can find our recipe for Sautéed Green Beans with Cherry Tomatoes here.
- Warm Homemade Dinner Rolls: Few things are as comforting as fresh-baked bread. Serving your Chicken Pepperoni with warm, fluffy homemade dinner rolls is an excellent choice. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or simply enjoying on their own. Our recipe for Easy Dinner Rolls is a fantastic option that pairs beautifully.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good idea. It adds freshness and a refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken, helping to cleanse the palate. Opt for mixed greens, a few cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes for a quick and easy side.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roast some asparagus spears with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender-crisp. Their slightly earthy flavor and vibrant green color make them an elegant and healthy side dish.
- Keep It Simple: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a fantastic dish like Chicken Pepperoni is to let it shine on its own. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal by itself, especially if you’re looking for a low-carb option. This is a go-to strategy for those extra busy evenings.
Discover More Delicious Chicken Recipes
If you’re a fan of versatile chicken dishes, explore some of our other cherished recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- Artichoke Chicken with Roasted Potatoes
- Hearty Chicken and Rice
- Quick ‘n’ Crunchy Potato Chip Chicken
- Flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken
- Classic Chicken a la King
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Chicken Pepperoni
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Ingredients
- 2 (8-10 oz each) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 oz pepperoni chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220°C).
- On a cutting board, carefully butterfly the chicken breasts open, creating 4 thin cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.2 (8-10 oz each) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Salt and pepper
- Place 1/4 cup flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1/4 cup milk. Place the 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.2 eggs, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- In a large, oven-proof heavy skillet, heat about 1/2” of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat.Vegetable or canola oil
- Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour (shaking off excess), then in the egg mixture (letting excess drip off), and finally into the panko breadcrumbs. Press the panko firmly into the chicken to ensure a good coating.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Cook, flipping once, until each side is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (about 7 minutes total). Remove cooked chicken to a plate.
- While the chicken is cooking, combine the 15 oz tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon basil, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon parsley in a small pot. Cook over medium heat until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.15 oz tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- When all chicken is done, carefully remove it to a plate and discard the hot oil (see notes below for safety). Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Pour the heated tomato sauce mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese, then 1/4 cup parmesan. Top with the 1 1/2 oz chopped pepperoni pieces.1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 1/2 oz pepperoni
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley before serving for a vibrant finish.2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Recipe Notes:
Nutrition information is provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can alter the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. The nutritional value for the frying oil is based on a retention of approximately 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. Actual oil retention may vary based on cooking time, temperature, and ingredients, which can change this number.
Adapted from Food and Wine Annual Recipes 2012.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 629kcal (31%),
Carbohydrates: 32g (11%),
Protein: 52g (104%),
Fat: 32g (49%),
Saturated Fat: 9g (56%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 237mg (79%),
Sodium: 1175mg (51%),
Potassium: 464mg (13%),
Fiber: 3g (13%),
Sugar: 7g (8%)