Chicken Parm Pizza: The Ultimate Fusion of Comfort Foods
Chicken Parm Pizza is the perfect mashup of two comfort food classics—crispy chicken parmesan and cheesy pizza—all in one irresistible bite. At HighTasty.com, we’re here to help you turn everyday dinners into memorable meals. This recipe covers everything you need: simple ingredients, tasty variations, and easy steps to make it healthier too. Get ready to wow your family with this cheesy favorite!
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Learn how to make Chicken Parm Pizza with crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melty cheese in this delicious and easy homemade recipe!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
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1/2 cup flour
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2 eggs (beaten)
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1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Olive oil for frying
For the Pizza:
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1 prepared pizza dough (or 1 store-bought crust)
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1 cup marinara sauce
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil (for garnish)
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Optional: red pepper flakes, garlic powder
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
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Bread the chicken: Coat in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
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Fry the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden and cooked through. Slice into strips.
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Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
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Spread marinara sauce over the dough, then top with sliced chicken, mozzarella, and more Parmesan.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes.
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Slice and serve hot!
Notes
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Pre-bake crust for a crispier base.
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Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
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Try ground chicken as a low-carb crust alternative.
Keywords: chicken parmesan pizza, crispy chicken pizza, Italian chicken pizza, cheesy chicken pizza, homemade chicken parm pizza, low-carb chicken pizza
What is Chicken Parm Pizza?
A Delicious Fusion of Two Classics
Imagine the crunchy, breaded goodness of chicken parm layered onto a chewy, golden crust, smothered in marinara sauce and a gooey blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. That’s Chicken Parm Pizza—a perfect marriage of Italian-American favorites that delivers on every bite. The savory sauce, melted cheese, and crispy chicken create an explosion of flavors and textures that’s hard to beat.
This dish isn’t just a novelty; it’s a revolution in your weeknight dinner routine. By combining the essence of homemade chicken parmesan pizza with the format of a traditional pie, you get the best of both worlds without compromise.
The Rise in Popularity
Thanks to viral videos and food bloggers, Chicken Parm Pizza has taken the internet by storm. What started as a restaurant trend quickly made its way into home kitchens, with foodies experimenting and adding their own flair. Social media feeds are brimming with variations—from low-carb chicken pizza crusts to Italian chicken pizza topped with fresh herbs.
What’s the appeal? It’s simple. This dish is comfort food at its finest—familiar, satisfying, and packed with rich, cheesy flavor. It’s no wonder this fusion recipe is now a go-to favorite for pizza night or game day spreads.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Parm Pizza
Essential Components
To craft the perfect Chicken Parm Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins. For a twist, some recipes use ground chicken to form a crust, as seen in viral TikTok trends. (Real Simple)
- Pizza Dough: Use store-bought dough or make your own. Roman-style dough offers a thin, crispy base. (The Candid Cooks)
- Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce enhances the Italian flavors.(Chef Dennis)
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, providing that gooey texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor essential to Chicken Parmesan Pizza.
- Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs give the chicken its signature crunch.(The Candid Cooks)
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to season the chicken and sauce.
Optional Add-ons
Customize your Chicken Parm Pizza with these additions:
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle on top after baking for a burst of freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a spicy kick to balance the richness.(Olives & Lamb)
- Ricotta Cheese: Dollops of ricotta can add creaminess.(Olives & Lamb)
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory depth of the dish.(Southern Living)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Parm Pizza
Preparing the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Season: Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Breading Station: Set up three bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan.
- Dredge: Coat each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook: Fry the breaded chicken in a skillet with oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.(Mantitlement)
- Slice: Once cooled slightly, cut the chicken into thin strips.(Coop Can Cook)
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Sauce Base: Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a border for the crust.
- Add Chicken: Evenly distribute the sliced chicken over the sauce.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan over the top.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish: After removing from the oven, top with fresh basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve: Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Parm Pizza, a delightful fusion of two classic dishes!
Note: For a low-carb version, consider using ground chicken to form a crust, as popularized in recent viral recipes. This method involves mixing ground chicken with seasonings, pressing it into a pizza shape, baking, and then adding toppings.
Variations and Tips
Creative Twists on Chicken Parm Pizza
Chicken Parm Pizza is already a delightful fusion, but why not explore some exciting variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences?
- Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb chicken pizza, use ground chicken as the base. Mix it with Parmesan and seasonings, press into a crust shape, and bake before adding toppings.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with breaded eggplant slices to create an eggplant parm pizza. It’s a fantastic alternative that still delivers on flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your pizza for an extra zing. This variation caters to those who enjoy a bit of heat with their cheesy delights.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or a sprinkle of feta to add new flavor dimensions to your Italian chicken pizza.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parm Pizza
- Pre-Bake the Crust: To achieve a crispy base, pre-bake your pizza dough for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings. This step prevents sogginess from the sauce and toppings.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella slices over shredded cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow your Chicken Parm Pizza to rest for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the presentation and taste of your pizza.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Chicken Parm Pizza is undeniably delicious, but it’s also important to consider its nutritional aspects.
- Caloric Content: A typical slice can range from 300 to 400 calories, depending on the crust thickness and cheese quantity.
- Protein: Thanks to the chicken, each slice offers a good protein boost, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fat and Sodium: Cheese and processed sauces can contribute to higher fat and sodium levels. Opting for homemade sauces and moderate cheese use can help manage these.
Healthier Alternatives
- Whole Wheat Crust: Switch to a whole wheat base to increase fiber intake, aiding digestion and providing longer satiety.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella or other reduced-fat cheese options to lower saturated fat content.
- Homemade Sauce: Preparing your marinara sauce allows control over sugar and salt levels, making your Chicken Parm Pizza healthier.
By making mindful ingredient choices, you can enjoy this cheesy chicken pizza while aligning with your health goals.
For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, check out our Roasted Vegetable Pizza Recipes.
FAQs About Chicken Parm Pizza
What is on Chicken Parm Pizza?
At its core, Chicken Parm Pizza is topped with breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese all layered over a pizza crust. It’s like two classic dishes rolled into one irresistible slice. You can also add extras like garlic, fresh basil, or even ricotta for a more personalized pie.
Why is it called Chicken Parm if it’s made with mozzarella?
Great question! While mozzarella is the melty star of the show, it’s the Parmesan cheese that gives the dish its iconic name. “Parm” stands for Parmigiana, the traditional Italian preparation of breaded meat topped with sauce and cheese. Even though mozzarella is used in abundance, the name pays homage to its Parmesan roots.
What is Parm on Pizza?
When people say “parm” on pizza, they usually mean grated Parmesan cheese added as a topping. It delivers a salty, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mozzarella. In Chicken Parm Pizza, it’s essential to the dish’s bold taste.
What sauce goes on Chicken Parm Pizza?
Traditional Chicken Parm Pizza uses a classic marinara sauce. This tomato-based sauce brings acidity and depth, perfectly balancing the rich cheese and savory chicken. You could also try spicy arrabbiata or garlic-infused tomato sauce for a little flair.