Description
Mozzarella Pepperoni Chicken
Ingredients:
6 drumsticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 beaten eggs
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
1 cup pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
10 slices pepperoni
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Coat drumsticks in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with chili flakes.
Bake for 35 minutes.
Spread pizza sauce, add cheese and pepperoni.
Bake 10 minutes until cheese is golden.
Garnish with Parmesan and parsley.
#SpicyPizzaChicken
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Station: Set up three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and mix breadcrumbs with chili flakes in the third. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Breading: Pat chicken drumsticks dry. Dredge each one thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off. Finally, press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly. Place on the baking sheet.
3. Initial Bake: Bake the breaded drumsticks at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through and the coating is crisp.
4. Add Toppings: Remove the tray. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of pizza sauce over each drumstick. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese and top with 1-2 slices of pepperoni.
5. Final Bake: Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.
6. Garnish & Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these drumsticks hot from the oven. They pair perfectly with a crisp green salad with Italian dressing, garlic breadsticks, or a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. For a true pizza night experience, offer a side of warm marinara or ranch dressing for extra dipping.
How-to Summary
This dish transforms chicken drumsticks into a pizza-inspired meal. The process involves breading chicken with a spicy kick, baking until crisp, then topping with classic pizza ingredients—sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni—for a final melt in the oven. It’s a fun, family-friendly recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks? Yes. Use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. Adjust cooking time; thinner cuts may cook faster in the initial bake.
How can I make this recipe less spicy? Simply omit the chili flakes from the breadcrumb mixture. The dish will still be flavorful from the herbs in the Italian-style breadcrumbs and toppings.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can bread the drumsticks and refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered, for up to 4 hours before baking. Add toppings just before the final bake.
My cheese isn’t browning. What should I do? For a more golden finish, switch your oven to broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
What’s a good substitute for pepperoni? Try sliced salami, cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Dredging Order: Always follow the flour, egg, then breadcrumb sequence. This creates a key layer for the coating to adhere properly.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Space drumsticks evenly so heat circulates, ensuring they crisp up instead of steaming.
- Adding Toppings Too Early: Adding sauce and cheese before the chicken is nearly cooked through will result in a soggy crust and potentially undercooked chicken.
- Using Cold Cheese: Shredding cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents.
Conclusion
Mozzarella Pepperoni Chicken is a creative and satisfying crossover that brings the joy of pizza to a protein-packed main course. With its crispy, seasoned coating and gooey, savory toppings, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly delicious result every time. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish for your next weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
