Pizza Chicken Italiano
Juicy chicken breasts topped with flavorful tomato sauce, olives, and melted mozzarella create a savory, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a 2-quart baking dish.
- Combine tomato sauce, oregano, chopped parsley, garlic salt, onion powder, and sugar. Pour over the chicken.
- Cover and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- Top with drained sliced olives and mozzarella cheese.
- Continue to bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have mozzarella cheese, try using provolone or cheddar as a substitute. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition. This dish can also be made with chicken thighs for a juicier texture, similar to Chicken Romanesque.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pizza Chicken Italiano with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Wedding Soup(Minestra De Scarola) or a simple pasta dish. For a heartier option, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a creamy Alfredo Light.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Chicken Italiano contains roughly 322 calories, with 27g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. At about 322 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from being tough. Plan to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with herbs. Alternatively, a jar of marinara sauce would work well. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste, as some sauces may be saltier or sweeter than others.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your Pizza Chicken Italiano, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce or using a spicy tomato sauce. You can also top the dish with jalapeños or pepperoni before baking for an extra kick.
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).