Who says you can’t enjoy the flavors of pizza while keeping it low-carb? This Easy Low Carb Pizza Stuffed Chicken Recipe brings together the best of both worlds. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with all your favorite pizza toppings, making each bite a delightful, cheesy experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite while keeping things on the healthier side.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425? or set your air fryer to 400?. Prepare a small baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Carefully slice each chicken breast lengthwise, keeping the two halves attached at one end to create a flap. Season the inside with salt and pepper.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce inside each chicken breast. Add one-third of the mozzarella and place 7 slices of pepperoni on top.
- Fold the chicken closed and press down gently. Season the top of the chicken with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- In a small bowl, mix the grated parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
- Bake the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 18-20 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165? at the thickest part.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup of marinara sauce (or pesto)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 ounces of pepperoni slices
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
FAQ
- What is the cooking time for Pizza Stuffed Chicken?
- The dish comes together quickly, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes in the oven or 18-20 minutes in an air fryer.
- Can I use something other than marinara sauce?
- Yes, you can substitute marinara with pesto for a different flavor profile.
- How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
- The thickest part of the chicken should reach an internal temperature of over 165°F to ensure it is cooked through.
- What are the nutritional details of this dish?
- Each serving contains approximately 389 calories, 4g of carbohydrates, 40g of protein, and 23g of fat.
- Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
- Yes, with only 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
Tips
- Ensure even cooking by slicing the chicken breast almost all the way through, creating a “flap” or “book” effect, which allows for easy folding and stuffing.
- For added flavor, consider using pesto instead of marinara sauce for a different twist on the classic pizza taste.
- To guarantee your chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches at least 165? before serving.
- If using an air fryer, be mindful of the cooking time as it is slightly shorter than the oven, typically 18-20 minutes.
Equipment
- Air fryer (if you don’t have one and prefer this cooking method)
- Meat thermometer (to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of over 165?)
- Parchment paper (for lining the baking sheet)
