Leftover Pizza Chicken Sandwich (Printable format)

Juicy shredded chicken and melted cheese layered on crispy pizza slices for a delicious handheld meal.

# List of ingredients:

→ Sandwich Components

01 - 4 cold leftover pizza slices (any type, 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 make it:

01 - Place two pizza slices crust-side down on a cutting board. Optionally spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of each slice for added moisture and flavor.
02 - Distribute the cooked shredded chicken evenly over each pizza slice. Sprinkle with black pepper and a pinch of salt if desired.
03 - Top the chicken with a generous handful of fresh arugula, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend.
04 - Cover each prepared slice with the remaining pizza slices, crust-side up, creating two sandwiches.
05 - Warm the olive oil or butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
06 - Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Gently press with a spatula and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the cheese melts and the pizza crust is golden and crisp.
07 - Remove sandwiches from skillet, allow to rest for 1 minute, then slice in half and serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It transforms two random leftovers into something that feels intentional and indulgent.
  • The whole thing comes together in under twenty minutes with zero fussy techniques.
  • Every bite has the crispy-cheesy satisfaction of pizza plus the protein and freshness of a real sandwich.
02 -
  • Don't skip the resting step—I learned this the hard way by burning my mouth on an explosion of molten cheese one minute too early.
  • Medium heat is your actual friend here; high heat makes the crust burn while the inside stays cold, which defeats the entire purpose.
  • The pizza you choose matters more than you'd think—thicker, sturdier crust handles the grilling better than thin and floppy.
03 -
  • Press down gently with your spatula in the first minute of cooking to create contact between the crust and pan, which helps everything toast evenly.
  • If your cheese isn't melting fast enough, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking—the steam speeds things up without burning the crust.
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