Leftover Pizza Chicken Sandwich (Printable version)

Crispy pizza slices meet shredded chicken, fresh arugula, and melted cheese in this quick indulgent sandwich.

# Ingredient List:

→ Sandwich

01 - 4 cold leftover pizza slices (any type, preferably similar size and thickness)
02 - 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
03 - 1 cup fresh arugula
04 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
05 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter (for grilling)

→ Seasonings

07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - Pinch of salt (optional, depending on pizza saltiness)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Place two pizza slices crust-side down on a cutting board. If desired, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of each slice for moisture and flavor.
02 - Evenly distribute the shredded chicken on top of each pizza slice. Season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed.
03 - Top the chicken with a generous handful of fresh arugula, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend.
04 - Cover the prepared slices with the remaining two pizza slices, crust-side up, to form two sandwiches.
05 - Warm olive oil or butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
06 - Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Press gently with a spatula and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until cheese melts and crust turns golden and crisp.
07 - Remove sandwiches from skillet and let rest for one minute. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms pizza scraps into something that tastes even better than the original.
  • The whole thing comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for lunch cravings or unexpected guests.
  • That moment when you bite through crispy pizza-bread and hit the warm cheese and tender chicken is genuinely unforgettable.
02 -
  • Cold pizza slices are essential—they hold their shape and won't fall apart, whereas room-temperature pizza might tear or crumble.
  • Medium heat is your best friend here; too high and the outside burns before the cheese inside melts, too low and you'll end up with a soggy, greasy sandwich instead of a crispy dream.
03 -
  • Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron—this prevents sticking and helps you achieve that perfect golden crust on both sides.
  • Don't skip the resting period after cooking; those 60 seconds let the cheese set just enough so it won't ooze out when you cut into it, but stays gorgeously melted inside.
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