Save to Pinterest Enjoy all the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic pizza with this easy, low-carb alternative. These 5-Ingredient Keto Pizza-Stuffed Chicken Breasts pack juicy protein and gooey mozzarella into every bite, making them a perfect solution for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Save to Pinterest By stuffing the chicken with rich marinara and pepperoni, you create a flavor-packed meal that feels indulgent while staying completely keto-compliant. The combination of searing and baking ensures the chicken remains moist while the cheese becomes perfectly bubbly.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Filling: 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni (about 16 slices), 1/2 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
- Topping: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Step 3
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon marinara sauce into each pocket, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella and a few slices of pepperoni. Reserve remaining sauce and cheese for topping.
- Step 4
- Secure the edges of the chicken breasts with toothpicks if necessary.
- Step 5
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with oil if desired.
- Step 6
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Step 7
- Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with leftover mozzarella and all the Parmesan.
- Step 8
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9
- Remove toothpicks, let rest for 2–3 minutes, and serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using an oven-safe skillet is key to getting that perfect golden-brown sear before finishing the dish in the oven. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is cooked through but still juicy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To customize this dish, you can substitute the pepperoni with sliced mushrooms or black olives for a vegetarian-style filling. For an extra aromatic touch, add fresh basil or a sprinkle of Italian herbs inside the pocket before searing.
Serviervorschläge
These chicken breasts pair excellently with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to keep the entire meal keto-friendly and satisfying.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're looking for a kid-friendly dinner or a simple keto meal prep option, these pizza-stuffed chicken breasts deliver satisfaction without the extra carbs. Enjoy a delicious, high-protein meal that brings the best of pizza night to your table.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance and store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before proceeding with the searing and baking steps.
- → What vegetables pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted broccoli or cauliflower, sautéed zucchini noodles, or steamed asparagus all complement the rich flavors beautifully while keeping the meal low-carb.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should feel firm rather than squishy.
- → Can I use different cheese varieties?
Absolutely. Provolone, cheddar, or Italian cheese blends work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses like sharp cheddar will alter the traditional pizza flavor profile.
- → Is there a way to make this spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara, use spicy pepperoni, or incorporate sliced jalapeños into the filling. You could also brush the outside with a mixture of olive oil and Italian seasoning plus a pinch of cayenne.