Pin it I stumbled on this idea one rainy Tuesday after staring at two stiff pizza slices in my fridge and a container of pulled rotisserie chicken. Something clicked: why not fold them around the chicken like a grilled cheese? The moment I flipped that first golden, crispy wedge, I knew I'd never look at leftovers the same way again.
The first time I made this for my brother, he laughed at the concept, then ate both servings without a word. Now he texts me photos whenever he folds his own pizza sandwiches, usually with way too much hot sauce drizzled inside. Its become our little tradition when we clean out the fridge together.
Ingredients
- Leftover pizza slices: Use sturdy crust varieties like classic cheese or pepperoni so they hold up when folded and toasted without getting soggy.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because its already juicy and seasoned, but any leftover chicken works beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar: This extra layer makes the inside impossibly gooey and binds the chicken to the pizza like glue.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads easily and crisps the outside into that golden, crackling shell we crave.
Instructions
- Prep the pizza:
- Lay your cold pizza slice cheese side up on a clean cutting board. The chill from the fridge actually helps it hold its shape when you fold it.
- Add the chicken and cheese:
- Spread half a cup of shredded chicken evenly over the cheese, then sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top if you want it really melty. Press gently so everything sticks together.
- Fold it up:
- Fold the pizza slice in half like a taco, pressing the edges gently to seal in the filling. It should feel snug but not bursting.
- Butter the outside:
- Spread a tablespoon of softened butter on the outer crust of each folded pizza. This is what gives you that crispy, golden magic.
- Toast the first side:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and place the folded pizzas buttered side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crisp.
- Flip and finish:
- Flip each piece carefully, pressing gently with your spatula, and toast the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. You will smell the cheese melting and see the crust turn beautifully golden.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from the pan and let them rest for a minute so the cheese sets just enough to hold. Slice in half and serve while theyre still hot and oozing.
Pin it One late night, my roommate and I made these after a long shift and sat on the kitchen floor eating them straight from the pan. We dipped them in ranch and laughed about how something so silly tasted so good. That memory still makes me smile every time I fold a pizza slice.
Flavor Variations
You can swap the chicken for pulled pork, crumbled sausage, or even sauteed mushrooms if you want to keep it vegetarian. I once used BBQ chicken pizza with caramelized onions inside and it was outrageously good. Play around with whatever leftovers you have and let the pizza flavors guide your filling choices.
Serving Suggestions
These are perfect with a side of marinara for dipping, or ranch if youre feeling indulgent like I usually am. Sometimes I serve them with a simple green salad to balance out the richness. Theyre also fantastic cut into smaller pieces and served as party snacks when friends come over.
Storage and Reheating
If you somehow have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil and store in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to bring back the crispiness, because the microwave will make them soggy and sad. I have also frozen them before toasting and cooked them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes per side.
- Wrap cooled folded pizzas individually in parchment before freezing so they do not stick together.
- Reheat frozen ones in a covered skillet to help the inside warm through before the outside burns.
- Always let them rest a minute after reheating or the cheese will be lava hot.
Pin it This recipe taught me that leftovers do not have to be boring, they can be an adventure. I hope it brings you as much joy and crispy, cheesy comfort as it has brought me.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of pizza works best for this dish?
Choose pizza with a sturdy crust to hold the filling well when folded. Pepperoni, veggie, or BBQ chicken styles are excellent options.
- → Can I use different cheeses inside?
Absolutely, mozzarella or cheddar add extra meltiness, but you can experiment with other cheeses that melt well.
- → How do I prevent sogginess when toasting?
Use a nonstick skillet over medium heat and spread softened butter on the outside of the folded pizza for a crisp, golden crust.
- → Is leftover chicken necessary?
Cooked shredded chicken adds protein and moisture, but you can adjust or omit based on preference or dietary needs.
- → What dipping sauces complement this dish?
Marinara, ranch, or even spicy hot sauce enhance the flavor and add a pleasing contrast to the crispy texture.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Prepare ingredients in advance, but toast just before serving to maintain crispiness and cheese melt.