Save This Keto Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake transforms the classic flavors of pizza into a low-carb masterpiece that's perfect for family dinners. Juicy chicken breasts serve as the hearty base, while sugar-free marinara brings that familiar tangy richness. When topped with bubbling mozzarella and crispy pepperoni, you'll satisfy all your pizza cravings without the carbs. It's a one-dish wonder that comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without derailing your keto lifestyle.
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This recipe was born from the eternal struggle of wanting to enjoy comfort food classics while maintaining a keto lifestyle. The combination of tender chicken with all the beloved pizza toppings creates a dish that's both satisfying and diet-friendly. The melty cheese blanket and crispy pepperoni edges develop amazing flavors in the oven, making this a go-to recipe for anyone missing traditional pizza on their low-carb journey.
Ingredients
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- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sauce & Cheese: 3/4 cup (180 ml) sugar-free marinara sauce, 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings: 20 slices pepperoni (about 60 g), 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Prep the oven and chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden (they do not need to be cooked through).
- Assemble the dish
- Arrange the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered chicken. Layer pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Add final seasonings
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to perfection
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C) and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Finish and serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Für das beste Ergebnis empfiehlt es sich, die Hähnchenbrust nicht zu dick zu wählen oder sie bei Bedarf flacher zu klopfen, damit sie gleichmäßiger gart. Achten Sie beim Kauf der Marinara-Sauce darauf, dass diese wirklich zuckerfrei ist, da viele Fertigprodukte versteckte Zucker enthalten. Das kurze Anbraten des Hühnchens vor dem Backen sorgt für mehr Geschmack durch die Maillard-Reaktion, kann aber übersprungen werden, wenn Sie in Eile sind.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
Dieses Rezept lässt sich vielfältig abwandeln: Verwenden Sie Hähnchenschenkel statt Brust für ein saftigeres Ergebnis. Für eine fettärmere Variante können Sie Puten-Pepperoni verwenden oder ganz darauf verzichten. Für mehr Abwechslung geben Sie sautierte Champignons, Paprika oder Oliven hinzu. Auch frischer Knoblauch oder verschiedene Käsesorten wie Provolone oder Gouda können das Geschmacksprofil interessant verändern, ohne den Kohlenhydratgehalt wesentlich zu erhöhen.
Serviervorschläge
Servieren Sie dieses keto-freundliche Gericht mit einem knackigen grünen Salat oder gedünstetem Brokkoli für eine vollständige Mahlzeit. Eine Seite aus geröstetem Blumenkohl passt ebenfalls hervorragend dazu. Für Nicht-Keto-Esser in der Familie kann eine Portion Vollkornpasta oder Quinoa gereicht werden. Das Gericht schmeckt frisch aus dem Ofen am besten, lässt sich aber auch gut vorbereiten und aufwärmen, wobei die Käseschicht dann wieder aufknuspern sollte.
Save This Keto Pepperoni Pizza Chicken Bake has become a staple in many low-carb households because it brilliantly bridges the gap between health-conscious eating and satisfying comfort food. The dish proves that dietary restrictions don't have to mean flavor restrictions. With just 5g of carbs per serving and a whopping 42g of protein, it keeps you on track with your macros while providing that pizza experience we all crave. Whether you're strictly keto or simply looking for a healthier dinner option, this chicken bake delivers big flavors without the guilt.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can chicken thighs be used instead?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful variation. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they're cooked through.
- → How to make it spicier?
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for an extra kick.
- → What are good substitutions for pepperoni?
Turkey pepperoni is a leaner option, or you can omit it altogether and add sautéed mushrooms or olives for extra taste.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the dish contains no gluten ingredients, making it friendly for gluten-free preferences.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Chicken can be seared and assembled in the baking dish ahead of time; refrigerate and bake when ready to serve for convenience.
