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Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 4 generous melts
Category: Lunch, Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American Fusion

Introduction

Forget the delivery driver! These Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts deliver the gooey, savory satisfaction of your favorite pizza in a crispy, handheld sandwich. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with classic pizza toppings, all hugged by buttery, golden sourdough bread and molten cheese. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that comes together faster than a pizza can bake and satisfies the universal craving for cheesy, pepperoni-topped perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day feast, or a fun weekend lunch, these melts are guaranteed to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)

  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

  • 8 slices sourdough bread, about 1/2-inch thick

  • 2 tablespoons softened butter (for spreading)

  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (for spreading)

  • 8 slices provolone cheese

  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese

  • 40-50 slices of pepperoni (about 3 oz)

  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

  • 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper (optional)

For Serving (optional):

  • Extra pizza sauce or marinara, warmed, for dipping

  • Ranch dressing

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl

  • Skillet or griddle (preferably cast iron)

  • Spatula

  • Butter knife

  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pizza sauce, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.

  2. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings. Set aside. (This filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.)

Step 2: Assemble the Melts

  1. Lay out all 8 slices of sourdough bread. In a small dish, mix the softened butter and mayonnaise together. Spread this mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice. This will create the gloriously crispy, golden exterior.

  2. Flip 4 slices over so the buttered side is facing down. On these slices, layer in the following order:

    • Layer 1: 1 slice of provolone cheese.

    • Layer 2: A generous 1/2 cup of the prepared chicken mixture, spread evenly.

    • Layer 3: 10-12 slices of pepperoni.

    • Layer 4: A sprinkle of olives and bell peppers (if using).

    • Layer 5: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.

    • Layer 6: A second slice of provolone cheese.

  3. Top each stack with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing OUT. Press down gently to secure.

Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection

  1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heating and a fantastic crust.

  2. Carefully place the assembled melts in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side, covered with a lid or large metal bowl to help melt the cheese thoroughly. Peek occasionally to ensure the bread is turning a deep, golden brown and not burning.

  3. Using a sturdy spatula, carefully flip each melt. Cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, covered, until equally golden brown and the cheese is visibly oozing and melted inside.

  4. Pro Tip: If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce the heat slightly.

Step 4: Rest, Slice, and Serve

  1. Transfer the cooked melts to a cutting board and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly, preventing a scalding cheese eruption when you bite in.

  2. Slice each melt in half diagonally for the classic presentation.

  3. Serve immediately with small bowls of warm pizza sauce for dipping and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Storage & Reheating Notes

  • Storage: These melts are best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store leftover, fully cooked and cooled melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes until hot and crispy. A skillet over low heat also works well. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.

  • Make Ahead: The chicken filling can be prepared 2-3 days in advance. Assemble the sandwiches just before cooking for the best texture.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

  • Bread Choice: Sourdough provides tang and structure, but Italian bread, ciabatta, or a hearty white bread are excellent substitutes.

  • Cheese Swap: Use sliced mozzarella, fontina, or a Italian cheese blend in place of provolone. A thin slice of fresh mozzarella adds incredible creaminess.

  • Protein Variations: Substitute the chicken with ground Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled), sliced meatballs, or even leftover grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

  • Crispy Pepperoni: For extra flavor, briefly microwave or pan-fry half of the pepperoni slices until crisp, then add them to the filling for a mix of crispy and chewy textures.

  • Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Nutrition Information (per melt, approximate)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 720 kcal
Total Fat 38 g
Saturated Fat 18 g
Cholesterol 135 mg
Sodium 1780 mg
Total Carbs 48 g
Dietary Fiber 3 g
Sugars 6 g
Protein 48 g

Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients (like bread and cheese brands) and optional additions. Sodium can be reduced by using low-sodium deli meats and cheese.

The Last Bite

These Chicken Pepperoni Pizza Melts are the ultimate culinary hack for pizza night. They transform simple ingredients into a comforting, shareable, and utterly delicious meal that hits all the right notes: savory, cheesy, crispy, and satisfying. By combining the ease of a grilled cheese with the robust flavors of a loaded pizza, this recipe offers a foolproof path to a happy dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends, these melts promise a crowd-pleasing result with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. So fire up the skillet, get that cheese melting, and prepare for the delicious moment when pizza and sandwich unite in perfect harmony. Dinner is served

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