Chicken Pizzaiola: A Savory Italian Delight for Any Occasion

Chicken Pizzaiola is a classic Italian dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, pepperoni, and creamy mozzarella. The combination of these ingredients brings together the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and zesty flavors, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions. This dish is a great way to enjoy a hearty Italian meal without all the fuss, and it’s easy to prepare even on a busy weeknight.

For more about Italian cuisine and the history of famous Italian dishes, check out this Italian Cooking Guide and The History of Italian Cuisine.

Now, let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious Chicken Pizzaiola.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Chicken Pizzaiola Recipe: Savory Italian Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Chicken Pizzaiola is an Italian-inspired dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a creamy finish. This comforting meal is topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and Parmesan, creating a satisfying combination of savory flavors with a hint of pepperoni for extra flavor. It’s a perfect dinner for any night of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut or pounded thin
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 oz pepperoni, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. If the chicken breasts are thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness for faster cooking.

2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the chopped pepperoni and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to crisp up and release its flavor into the pan. Add the pressed garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Make the Tomato Sauce:
   Add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir well, and season with salt. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add Cream and Cheese:
   Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese melts into the sauce.

6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast.

7. Melt the Cheese:
   Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:
   Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Chicken Pizzaiola hot with the sauce spooned over the top. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or a side of vegetables.

Notes

For extra flavor, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream and use a bit of chicken broth to make the sauce.

This dish can be served with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 50g
• Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: Chicken Pizzaiola

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped pepperoni and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the pepperoni to release its oils and crisp up slightly. Add the pressed garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is covered. Top with mozzarella cheese and cover the skillet. Let the cheese melt and become bubbly, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the chicken is thoroughly coated with sauce, remove from heat and serve hot. Pair with pasta, a salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Advanced Techniques

For those looking to elevate their Chicken Pizzaiola, here are some advanced techniques to make the dish even more delicious:

1. Chicken Preparation:

If you want your chicken to be extra tender, consider marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with extra flavor and ensure a juicy result.

2. Richer Sauce:

For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine to the sauce after sautéing the pepperoni and garlic. Let it reduce by half before adding the crushed tomatoes. This addition will deepen the sauce’s flavor profile and bring out a more sophisticated taste.

3. Baked Variation:

To transform this dish into a baked version, after assembling the chicken and sauce, transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

How to Store Leftover Chicken Pizzaiola

Allow the Chicken Pizzaiola to cool to room temperature before storing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat to preserve the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing Chicken Pizzaiola

If you want to make this dish in advance, Chicken Pizzaiola can be frozen. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.

Reheating Tips

The best way to reheat this dish while keeping the chicken tender and the sauce creamy is on the stovetop. Heat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until fully warmed.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free

This dish is naturally gluten-free, but make sure the pepperoni and Parmesan cheese you use are certified gluten-free. If you need to make the breading gluten-free, skip any breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or rice flour for any variations of the recipe.

Dairy-Free

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. For the cheese, use a dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan-style cheese for the best results.

Low-Carb/Keto

Chicken Pizzaiola is already a low-carb meal, but if you’re following a strict keto diet, you can skip the heavy cream and use a full-fat coconut milk substitute. For the sauce, avoid using any sugar-based ingredients, and opt for low-carb alternatives when choosing condiments like pepperoni.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They have a higher fat content, which results in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the sauce. Sauté them along with the pepperoni and garlic for extra flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Chicken Pizzaiola can be made ahead. Prepare the dish, but stop before adding the cheese. Store the dish in the fridge for up to 2 days, and then top with cheese and reheat in the oven or stovetop when ready to serve.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Chicken Pizzaiola is a delicious and versatile Italian dish that combines tender chicken with a savory, creamy sauce. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for any home cook looking to create a comforting meal. By following the tips and techniques provided, you can enhance the flavor and texture of this dish, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a regular weeknight meal. Don’t forget to try different variations and enjoy the rich, mouthwatering flavors of Chicken Pizzaiola.