Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for pizza chicken?

Yes, if you'd like to, but I'd recommend pounding them to an even thickness or butterflying so they cook evenly.

What other vegetables can I use for this skillet meal?

If mushrooms or green bell peppers aren't your thing, swap them out for your favorite pizza toppings! Roasted garlic, black olives, drained canned pineapple, pepperoncini, spinach, and/or pickles all work!

Can I use Canadian bacon instead of pepperoni for skillet pizza chicken?

Sure! I definitely think the pepperoni helps add pizza vibes here, but if you're a big fan of Canadian bacon on pizza, you'll be right at home. Throw in some canned drained pineapple while you're at it!

Skillet Pizza Chicken Casserole (Gluten Free)

Description

Pizza craving? This gluten free skillet pizza chicken recipe has all the classic pizza flavors in one high protein skillet. Swap out the veggies if needed, and feel free to use shredded mozzarella in a pinch.

Ingredients

Units Scale

4-5 oz uncured pepperoni (such as Applegate beef or turkey), sliced into large strips
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into thin strips
1/2 cup button mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
2 14 ounce cans diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 tablespoon dried basil), plus more for garnish
4 oz fresh mozzarella (optional, omit for dairy free)

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Instructions

Crisp pepperoni. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pepperoni to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to crisp up the pepperoni. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Partially cook chicken. Season the chicken thighs on each side with salt. Add the olive oil to the skillet and cook the chicken thighs for 3-5 minutes on each side, until lightly browned but not cooked through. Transfer to the same plate as the pepperoni.
Sauté vegetables. Add the bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, and chili flakes to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add tomatoes and simmer. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir in the oregano and basil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, while the sauce reduces.
Add meat and roast. Return the pepperoni and chicken thighs to the skillet. Transfer to the oven and roast for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the skillet from the oven.
Top with mozzarella. If you’re adding mozzarella, turn the broiler on high. Tear the mozzarella into chunks. Sprinkle mozzarella over the skillet, and return to the oven for about 2 minutes. Watch closely! You only want it to be in long enough for the mozzarella to bubble and brown. Sprinkle fresh basil over the skillet, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Add more protein and reduce the overall fat by using turkey pepperoni!

Swap in other vegetables if bell peppers and mushrooms aren't your favorite pizza toppings. Black olives, pepperoncini, drained canned pineapple, and/or spinach can all work great!