Pepperoni Stuffed Chicken

Pepperoni Stuffed Chicken is yet another way to make chicken fun and interesting. I have been in a pizza mood lately, and this is a good way to satisfy my craving without eating pizza every night. Although I think I might be ok with that... 

This stuffed chicken was cheesy and delicious, and definitely hit the spot for my pizza craving. You can dip it in warmed spaghetti sauce for a little extra flavor as well. Steven said this dish moved right up on his list of favorites, and that I have to make it again.  

Pepperoni Stuffed Chicken

You will need:
2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4-6 slices Kraft Mozzarella cheese
24 slices of Hormel Pepperoni
1-2 large eggs
2/3 cup King Arthur Gluten-Free Multi-Purpose Flour
2/3 cup Hol-Grain Chicken Coating Mix (or other GF bread crumbs))
salt and pepper to taste

Heat oven to 350F. Line a 9 by 13 inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and grease with nonstick cooking spray.

1) Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut each in half diagonally. Then take each piece and cut in half horizontally, but not completely through, to create a 'pocket' for the fillings to go in.

2) Stuff each piece of chicken with 3 slices of pepperoni and some of the cheese. Insert 1-2 toothpicks vertically to hold the pocket shut. Season lightly with salt and pepper, if desired. Set each piece aside.

3) Beat the egg(s) in a shallow bowl or dish until it is an even consistency. Put the flour in a separate shallow bowl, and the crumbs in yet another bowl. 

4) One at a time, coat each piece of chicken in the flour, then in the egg, and then in the crumbs. Place stuffed and coated chicken pieces on the greased and foil-lined baking sheet.

5) For crispier chicken, you may fry each piece in a skillet with vegetable oil for 1-2 minutes on each side and then place on the baking sheet.

6) Bake chicken pieces for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

7) Remove from the oven and serve hot with some warmed pasta sauce, if desired.

Adapted from Beth M's blog, Budget Bytes.