Save I was staring into the fridge at two cold pizza slices and a container of shredded chicken when the idea hit me. What if I treated pizza like bread? Five minutes later, I had something that tasted better than the original dinner. The crust crisped up like butter-toasted sourdough, the cheese melted into gooey layers, and the chicken added this unexpected heartiness that made me forget I was eating leftovers.
The first time I made this for my roommate, she laughed at the concept. Then she took a bite and went completely silent. She finished both halves without a word, then asked if we had more pizza. Now every time we order too much, she looks at me with this hopeful expression. Its become our unspoken leftover tradition.
Ingredients
- Leftover pizza slices: The thicker the crust, the better it holds up to folding and pressing, so avoid ultra-thin styles if you can.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is perfect here because its already juicy and seasoned, but any leftover chicken works beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar: This is optional, but it creates an extra melty interior that binds everything together like glue.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads easily and creates that golden, crispy crust that makes this worth every calorie.
Instructions
- Prep the pizza:
- Lay your cold pizza slice cheese side up on a cutting board. The cheese acts as the glue that holds the chicken in place once you fold it.
- Add the filling:
- Spread half a cup of shredded chicken evenly over the cheese side, then sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top if you want it really gooey. Press down gently so everything sticks together.
- Fold it up:
- Fold the pizza slice in half like a taco, pressing the edges gently to seal. It doesnt need to be perfect, just snug enough to hold the filling.
- Butter the outside:
- Spread softened butter generously on the outside of each folded pizza. This is what creates that crispy, golden crust, so dont skimp.
- Toast the first side:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and place the folded pizzas buttered side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until theyre golden and crispy.
- Flip and finish:
- Flip carefully with a spatula, pressing down gently to flatten. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese inside is fully melted.
- Serve hot:
- Let them cool for just a minute so you dont burn your mouth, then slice in half and serve. The cheese will still be stretchy and perfect.
Save There was a night I made this after a long, exhausting day, and the smell of butter hitting the hot pan brought me right back to childhood grilled cheese dinners. It reminded me that comfort food doesnt have to be complicated. Sometimes the best meals are the ones you invent out of necessity and a little bit of hunger-fueled creativity.
Best Pizzas to Use
Pepperoni pizza works like a dream because the oils from the pepperoni add even more flavor when you reheat it. Veggie pizza is great if you want something lighter, and BBQ chicken pizza creates this sweet and savory combo that feels almost gourmet. Avoid anything too loaded with wet toppings like fresh tomatoes, they make the fold soggy and harder to handle.
Flavor Boosters
A few dashes of hot sauce inside before folding adds a nice kick without overpowering the cheese. Fresh basil or a sprinkle of dried oregano brings a pop of brightness that cuts through the richness. If you have garlic powder or red pepper flakes in the pantry, a light dusting on the buttered crust before toasting makes every bite more interesting.
Serving and Dipping
I love serving these with a small bowl of marinara sauce on the side for dipping, it brings the whole pizza vibe full circle. Ranch dressing is another favorite, especially if your pizza had a spicy topping. Honestly, theyre good enough to eat plain, but dipping makes it feel like a real meal instead of just clever leftovers.
- Let them cool for a full minute before cutting or the cheese will ooze out everywhere.
- Use a sharp knife and cut in one clean motion to keep the layers intact.
- If youre making more than two, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you toast the rest.
Save This is one of those recipes that proves leftovers dont have to be boring or feel like second-best. Sometimes the scrappy, spontaneous stuff you throw together ends up being exactly what you didnt know you needed.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What type of pizza works best for this dish?
Choose pizza slices with a sturdy crust for easy folding and crisp toasting. Pepperoni, veggie, or BBQ chicken styles are all great options.
- → Can I add extra cheese inside?
Yes, sprinkling shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside enhances meltiness and adds gooey richness.
- → How should the sandwich be cooked?
Butter the outside of the folded pizza and cook in a medium-heat skillet until both sides are golden brown and crispy, usually 3-4 minutes per side.
- → Are there suggested sauces to serve with it?
Marinara or ranch dipping sauces complement the flavors well and add an extra layer of taste.
- → Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Add fresh herbs, hot sauce, or extra cheese inside to tailor the flavor to your preference.
- → Is this suitable as a quick meal?
Yes, preparation takes just minutes, making it perfect for a fast and satisfying snack or light meal.