Chicken Pizzarella
Juicy chicken breasts topped with a savory mushroom and tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, perfect for a hearty, cheesy dinner that appeals to all chicken and pizza lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat.
- Add chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and oregano; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft.
- Stir in tomato sauce and pepper; simmer briefly.
- Place chicken breasts in a 2-quart baking dish and cover with the sauce.
- Bake, uncovered, for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle sliced mozzarella cheese on top, and continue baking for 5 more minutes or until the cheese is bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme in place of oregano. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the raw chicken breasts. To enhance the dish, try adding bell peppers or spinach to the sauce. You can also swap mozzarella for provolone for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Pizzarella with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Angel Hair Pasta With Chicken for a heartier option. For a lighter meal, consider serving it over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside Moe'S Rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Pizzarella can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain the cheese's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Pizzarella contains roughly 2126 calories, with 20g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 216g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients used in Chicken Pizzarella are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your tomato sauce does not contain any added gluten, and you can enjoy this dish without concerns.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).