Pizza Chicken
A comforting baked chicken dish topped with spaghetti sauce, mushrooms, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten eggs.
- Roll chicken breasts in dried bread crumbs.
- Brown chicken in oil; drain excess oil.
- Place chicken in a 13 x 9-inch sprayed baking pan.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the chicken.
- Top with mushrooms and shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil.
- Bake at 350°F until done, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, try adding Italian seasoning to the bread crumbs or use panko instead. If you want to cut down on calories, consider using skinless chicken breasts. You can also substitute the Mozzarella with a cheese blend or use low-fat versions for a healthier option. For added flavor, mix in some chopped fresh basil or oregano into the spaghetti sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pizza Chicken with a side of Garden Linguine for a delightful meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables also pairs well, balancing the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving with Italian Bean Soup as a starter. This combination will create a satisfying and well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overcook to keep the chicken tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Chicken contains roughly 1074 calories, with 16g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend for added flavor. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to create a delicious gooey topping.
What can I serve with Pizza Chicken?
Pizza Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of pasta like Fettucine With Shrimp Sauce for a complete meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy balance.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pizza Chicken ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bake it from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).