Leftover Pizza Chicken Sandwich (Print-Friendly)

Juicy shredded chicken and melted cheese layered between crispy leftover pizza slices in a satisfying twist.

# What You'll Need:

→ Sandwich components

01 - 4 cold leftover pizza slices (any variety, 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 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
06 - 1 tbsp olive oil or softened butter (for grilling)

→ Seasonings

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

# How To Make It:

01 - Arrange two pizza slices crust-side down on a clean cutting board. Optionally, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inner side of each slice for added moisture and flavor.
02 - Evenly distribute shredded chicken over each pizza slice. Season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt if necessary.
03 - Place a generous handful of fresh arugula atop the chicken, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend.
04 - Cover each with the remaining pizza slices, crust-side up, creating two sandwiches.
05 - Warm olive oil or softened butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
06 - Place sandwiches in skillet carefully. Press gently with a spatula and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until cheese has melted and the pizza crust turns golden and crisp.
07 - Transfer sandwiches from skillet and allow to rest for 1 minute. Slice in half and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns leftovers into something so indulgent you'll forget it was an accident.
  • The crispy pizza crust acts like the world's best grilled cheese bread.
  • You get melted cheese on the inside and outside, which is basically a miracle.
  • It takes less time than ordering delivery and tastes twice as good.
02 -
  • Don't use pizza straight from the fridge without letting it sit for a minute, it won't press together as well and the filling can slide out.
  • Medium heat is non negotiable, I burned my first attempt by cranking it too high and ended up with charred crust and cold cheese inside.
  • If your pizza slices are uneven in size, trim them lightly or just accept a rustic looking sandwich, it'll still taste incredible.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it gives the crust an even crispier, almost charred edge that's addictive.
  • If your pizza slices are thick or heavily topped, press them gently with a second skillet or a pot while they cook to help everything meld together.
  • Brush the outside of the pizza crust lightly with garlic butter before grilling for an extra layer of flavor that makes it taste like garlic bread.
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