Chicken and Pepperoni Pizza Melts

Chicken and Pepperoni Pizza Melts are an anytime answer for cravings when you want hearty comfort food that delivers serious flavor and a satisfying dose of protein. Melty mozzarella, strips of juicy grilled chicken, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni all wrapped up in a golden toasted tortilla create a pizza-inspired meal you can eat with your hands. This one is a lifesaver for busy nights and picky eaters alike.

I remember making these on a super hectic Tuesday night when everyone wanted something fun and different for dinner. They disappeared from the table before I even sat down with my own plate.

Ingredients

• Frozen chicken burger patties: These cook quickly and stay juicy Choose a brand with minimal fillers for best flavor
• Large protein tortilla wraps: These boost the protein and hold their shape well during toasting Look for wraps that list protein in the nutrition facts if possible
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that classic gooey pizza melt Look for whole milk mozzarella for extra melt and flavor
• Pizza sauce: Adds the essential tomato tang that ties everything together I like a traditional or spicy sauce with no sugar added
• Pepperoni slices: These bring the smoky salty kick and get crisp around the edges in the skillet Use a higher quality pepperoni with visible marbling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Patties:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the frozen chicken burger patties Let them cook for about six minutes untouched so they get a nice sear Flip and continue cooking until both sides are golden and the internal temperature is at least one hundred sixty five degrees Transfer to a cutting board and let them rest for a minute

Slice the Chicken:

Cut each patty into six strips so every bite is layered with chicken This shape fits well inside the tortilla and makes for even melting

Assemble the Melts:

Lay all three tortillas flat on your work surface Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella down the center of each tortilla Top the cheese layer with six strips of chicken per tortilla Spread a spoonful or two of pizza sauce over the chicken then arrange six pepperoni slices on top Finish with the remaining mozzarella

Fold and Toast the Melts:

Fold the sides of each tortilla over the filling to make a sealed wrap Heat a clean skillet over medium-low and set the wraps seam side down Toast for five minutes until golden and crisp then carefully flip and toast the other side for another five minutes until all the cheese is melted and the outside is deeply browned

Slice and Serve:

Transfer the wraps onto a cutting board and let them rest for one minute Slice each in half on a diagonal This makes them easy to pick up and the cheese stays inside Serve hot for maximum gooeyness

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My favorite part is the crispy edge of the pepperoni where it meets the hot skillet The first time my nephew tried this he declared it was better than pizza night and I had to agree with him

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore crispiness The melts can also be wrapped tightly in foil and frozen for up to two months Let them thaw in the fridge before reheating to avoid soggy tortillas

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have protein tortillas swap in regular flour tortillas or whole wheat options For a dairy-free melt use your favorite vegan cheese shreds and dairy-free pepperoni or simply load up extra veggies Try turkey pepperoni to lower the saturated fat or add chopped bell peppers for color and crunch

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pizza melts with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal They also pair well with a side of marinara for dipping If making for a crowd slice each wrap into thirds for fun appetizer bites at parties

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Cultural or Historical Context

This dish brings together the nostalgia of classic pizza and the portable convenience of American melts and quesadillas The recipe was inspired by a mashup of my childhood pizza nights and quick grilled cheese lunches on the go

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the tortillas get crispy?

Cook the filled tortillas seam-side down on a preheated skillet over medium-low heat. Flip once browned and continue until both sides are golden and crisp.

→ Can I use fresh chicken instead of burger patties?

Yes, grilled or cooked chicken breast works well. Slice into strips to layer inside the tortillas before toasting.

→ What cheese is best for gooey melts?

Shredded mozzarella provides great melt and classic pizza flavor, but blends like provolone or cheddar are tasty alternatives.

→ How do I keep the fillings from spilling out?

Make sure to fold the tortillas snugly around the filling and place the seam side down when toasting, which helps hold everything in place.

→ Can I make these ahead for meal prep?

Yes, assemble the wraps in advance and cook them when ready to eat. Store unbaked wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ Are there alternative fillings I can add?

You can customize with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or use turkey pepperoni for a leaner option.