Chicken and Pepperoni Pizza Melts

Chicken and Pepperoni Pizza Melts are a quick, satisfying twist on classic pizza, wrapped in crispy tortillas for a convenient lunch or snack. Packed with shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, and pizza sauce over tender chicken strips, these melts deliver all the flavor of a pizza in a handheld, crispy package. They’re fast to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for busy days.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for lunch or dinner.
  • Pizza Flavors Anywhere – Enjoy classic pizza ingredients without baking a full pizza.
  • Handheld Convenience – Tortilla wrap makes it portable and mess-free.
  • Customizable Fillings – Add vegetables, extra cheese, or different meats.
  • Crispy and Cheesy – Golden tortilla exterior with melted cheese inside.
  • Kid-Friendly – A fun and approachable way to get protein and flavor in one meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Components

  • 3 frozen chicken burger patties – Provides protein and a meaty base; can substitute cooked chicken breast strips.
  • 3 large high-protein tortilla wraps – Acts as the crisp, handheld pizza “crust.”
  • 180 g shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts easily to bind fillings and provide gooey texture.
  • 120 ml pizza sauce – Adds tomato flavor and seasoning to the filling.
  • 18 slices pepperoni – Offers classic pizza flavor and slightly spiced fat for richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Cook the Chicken Patties – Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken patties for 6 minutes on one side, flip, and continue cooking until golden and internal temperature reaches 74°C.
  • Slice the Chicken – Let patties rest briefly, then cut each into 6 uniform strips for even layering in the wrap.
  • Assemble the Melts – Lay tortillas flat. Sprinkle half the mozzarella down the center, layer 6 chicken strips, spoon on pizza sauce, add 6 pepperoni slices, and top with remaining mozzarella.
  • Fold the Tortilla – Fold the sides inward to fully enclose the filling for secure cooking.
  • Toast the Wraps – Heat skillet over medium-low heat, cook seam-side down for 5 minutes until golden, then flip and cook an additional 5 minutes until both sides are crisp and cheese is melted.
  • Serve Warm – Slice in half if desired and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Recipe Notes & Tips

  • Ensure Proper Cooking – Chicken should reach at least 74°C internally for safety.
  • Avoid Overfilling – Too much filling can prevent the wrap from sealing and make it messy.
  • Even Slicing – Cutting chicken strips uniformly ensures consistent layers.
  • Low Heat Toasting – Medium-low heat prevents the tortilla from burning before the cheese melts.
  • Optional Add-Ins – Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 3 large melts
  • Calories: ~480 per serving (estimate, varies by brand and cheese)

Perfect Pairings

  • Side salad – Fresh greens balance the richness of cheese and pepperoni.
  • Marinara dipping sauce – Adds extra tomato flavor and moisture.
  • Baked potato wedges – Complements the crispy tortilla with a soft side.
  • Sparkling water or soda – Refreshing beverage to cut through richness.

Ideal Occasions

  • Quick weekday lunch – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • After-school snack – Protein-packed and kid-friendly.
  • Game-day bites – Portable and shareable with minimal fuss.
  • Casual dinners – Perfect when you want pizza flavor without oven use.

Storage & Serving Tips

  • Refrigeration – Store cooled wraps in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating – Re-toast in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
  • Freezing – Wrap individually and freeze up to 1 month; reheat gently to maintain texture.
  • Serve Hot – Cheese and sauce taste best warm; avoid microwaving for long periods to keep tortillas crispy.

Creative Variations to Try

  • Spicy Pepperoni – Use hot pepperoni or add chili flakes for heat.
  • Vegetable Boost – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a lighter version.
  • Cheese Medley – Mix mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for extra richness.
  • BBQ Chicken Version – Swap pizza sauce for barbecue sauce and add red onions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Cheese Not Melting – Ensure medium-low heat and cover briefly if needed.
  • Tortilla Soggy – Toast slowly and ensure filling isn’t overly wet.
  • Chicken Undercooked – Check internal temperature; slice patties after resting.
  • Wrap Falling Apart – Fold tightly and press edges to seal before toasting.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it combines pre-cooked, protein-rich chicken with quick-melting cheese and flavorful pepperoni in a thin tortilla that crisps easily. Cooking at medium-low heat allows the tortilla to brown without burning, while the seam-side down method keeps fillings contained. The layered ingredients ensure each bite contains a balanced mix of chicken, cheese, and sauce. With approximately 480 calories per serving, these melts are a filling and satisfying meal option.


Final Thoughts

Chicken and Pepperoni Pizza Melts are a fast, flavor-packed alternative to traditional pizza. Their handheld format makes them convenient for lunch, dinner, or snacks, while the balance of protein, cheese, and sauce ensures satisfaction. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers crispy, cheesy, and savory results every time, and can easily be adapted for extra vegetables or spicy variations.

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