Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with our Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwich – a culinary masterpiece that brings together the beloved tastes of pizza and the satisfying goodness of a grilled chicken sandwich. Perfect for family dinners and guaranteed to be a hit with kids!
This post has been sponsored by Tyson® Fresh Chicken. All opinions expressed are genuinely my own.
Embracing the Final Days of Grilling Season with a Twist
The air outside has a subtle crispness to it, a gentle whisper of the changing seasons. Just yesterday, a refreshing rain swept through, bringing with it a touch of coolness that prompted me to open the windows, letting the fresh, cooler air circulate through the house. It’s still quite warm during the day, but those cooler nights are a welcome reprieve from the peak summer heat.
My husband, ever the pragmatist, remarked that we likely only have a couple more weeks of truly warm weather before the chill of fall fully settles in. And while I adore the vibrant colors and cozy traditions of autumn, I’m simply not ready to bid farewell to one of my absolute favorite summer pastimes: grilling.
(Truth be told, grilling is a year-round passion for me. But there’s an undeniable magic to firing up the grill on a warm evening, the scent of sizzling food mingling with the summer air. It just feels like summer!)
So, I’m determined to extend grilling season for as long as possible. And with a recipe as incredibly delicious and fun as this Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwich, you’ll want to keep those grill flames burning, too!
The Inspiration: When Pizza Meets Chicken
For the longest time, my children were staunch advocates of plain cheese pizza. It was their go-to, their comfort food, their undisputed favorite. But then, something shifted a month or two ago. Suddenly, they began requesting pepperoni pizza. This new development opened up a world of culinary possibilities, and I seized the opportunity to merge their evolving taste with a dish I knew they already loved: a hearty grilled chicken sandwich.
The result? A fantastic family dinner that was devoured with enthusiasm, combining the irresistible flavors of pepperoni pizza with tender, juicy grilled chicken. What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity and speed. We’re talking about incredible flavor achieved with just a few core ingredients and a total time of only 30 minutes! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
The Foundation of Flavor: Quality Tyson Fresh Chicken
At the heart of any truly great chicken dish lies the quality of the chicken itself. For these Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, I always reach for Tyson Fresh Chicken. I am a firm believer that when it comes to feeding my family, quality is paramount. When you choose Tyson Fresh Chicken, you’re selecting an all-natural* product, free from added hormones or steroids**. This commitment to natural, wholesome chicken gives me peace of mind.
Tyson Fresh Chicken arrives at your grocery store shelves just days after leaving the farm, ensuring unparalleled freshness. This freshness translates directly into better flavor and texture for your meals. Furthermore, Tyson has a rich history, with their chickens being raised by family farmers for an impressive 75 years. This heritage speaks volumes about their dedication to ethical farming practices and consistent quality. Knowing where my food comes from and that it’s produced with care makes all the difference when I’m preparing meals for my loved ones.
Why This Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a Must-Try
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! It’s designed to bring joy to your dinner table, catering to diverse palates with its familiar yet exciting flavor profile. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- Kid-Friendly Favorite: What child doesn’t love pizza? And who can resist a juicy chicken sandwich? This dish brilliantly combines both, making it an instant hit with the little ones.
- Quick & Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time, this sandwich is perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.
- Perfect for Grilling: Extend your grilling season and enjoy the smoky, char-kissed flavor that only a grill can provide.
- Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite pizza toppings. Add some sliced olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of oregano for an extra kick.
- Wholesome & Satisfying: Made with quality chicken and fresh ingredients, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep everyone full and happy.
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Chicken Sandwich
Achieving grilling perfection for these sandwiches is easier than you think. Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken is tender, flavorful, and perfectly topped:
- Even Thickness: For even cooking, slightly pound the thicker parts of your chicken breasts to a uniform thickness, about 3/4 inch. This ensures the chicken cooks through without drying out.
- Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to a medium temperature (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C) before placing the chicken on it. This creates a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Oil the Grates: Lightly oil your grill grates before cooking. This also helps prevent the chicken from sticking and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your chicken breasts enough space on the grill for even cooking and proper heat circulation.
- Melt the Cheese Perfectly: Once the chicken is nearly done and topped with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, close the grill lid. This traps the heat, allowing the cheese to melt quickly and become wonderfully gooey without overcooking the chicken.
- Toasted Buns: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, lightly toast your buns on the grill for a minute or two just before serving.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper for the chicken. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning if desired.
Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Deborah Harroun
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
4 servings
Main Dish
American
Pin
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Ingredients
- 4 Tyson Fresh Chicken boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 8 oz each
- salt and pepper
- 6 tablespoons prepared pizza sauce
- 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz pepperoni slices
- 4 buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to a medium heat setting. Once hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Season both sides of the Tyson Fresh Chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping them once halfway through, until the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Add the Pizza Toppings: When the chicken is almost fully cooked (about 5 minutes before it’s done), spread 2 tablespoons of prepared pizza sauce evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then arrange the pepperoni slices on top, followed by a final sprinkle of cheese. Close the grill lid and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
- Assemble and Serve: Carefully transfer each pizza-topped chicken breast from the grill onto a waiting bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwiches!
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Serving Suggestions & Variations
These Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwiches are incredibly versatile. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad, crispy sweet potato fries, or some grilled corn on the cob. You can also experiment with different toppings:
- Cheese Varieties: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to blend in some provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or black olives under the cheese for a veggie-packed twist.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce or a few jalapeño slices on top will add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Different Sauces: Try a white garlic sauce or a pesto sauce instead of traditional red pizza sauce for a gourmet touch.
- Bacon or Ham: Elevate the meatiness by adding cooked, crumbled bacon or thin slices of ham along with the pepperoni.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Topped Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Here are answers to some common questions about making this family-favorite recipe:
Can I make this recipe indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken breasts in a grill pan on your stovetop or bake them in the oven. For a grill pan, follow the same cooking times, ensuring the pan is well-oiled and hot. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Add toppings and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken breasts a few hours or even the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also have your pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni prepped and ready to go for quick assembly.
What kind of buns work best?
Classic hamburger buns or brioche buns are excellent choices for these sandwiches. Brioche adds a touch of sweetness and richness, while sturdy hamburger buns hold up well to the juicy chicken and toppings. You can even use ciabatta rolls or crusty rolls for a heartier sandwich.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure chicken is safely cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast. It should read 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when pierced.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs would also work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and retain more moisture, making them a great alternative. Adjust grilling time as needed; thighs typically cook a bit faster than breasts.
So let’s hold onto the joy of summer grilling for a little longer, especially when it produces such a delightful and easy meal. Once you’ve savored this incredible grilled chicken sandwich, remember to visit PickTysonFresh.com. There, you’ll discover even more grilling recipes and meal ideas that will make menu planning for your family simpler and more inspiring. For a wide array of chicken inspiration, check out tyson.com.
*Minimally processed. No artificial ingredients.
**Federal regulations prohibit the use of added hormones or steroids in chicken.
A heartfelt thank you to Tyson Foods for sponsoring this post. Partnerships with quality brands like Tyson Foods enable me to continue sharing delicious, family-friendly recipes with all of you.