Leftover Pizza Grilled Cheese (Print)

Crispy folded pizza loaded with juicy shredded chicken and melted cheese in minutes.

# Components:

→ Main

01 - 2 large slices leftover pizza (any style with sturdy crust)
02 - 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
03 - ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)

→ For Toasting

04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Directions:

01 - Place a cold pizza slice on a cutting board, cheese side facing up.
02 - Spread half a cup of shredded chicken evenly over the cheese side of each pizza slice; sprinkle extra cheese if desired.
03 - Fold each pizza slice in half, pressing gently to enclose the filling securely.
04 - Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and spread one tablespoon of butter on the outside of each folded pizza.
05 - Place folded pizzas buttered side down in the skillet; cook for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
06 - Flip each folded pizza, press gently with a spatula, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until cheese melts and crust is golden.
07 - Remove from heat, let rest for one minute, slice in half, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms sad leftover pizza into something that tastes intentional and gourmet instead of like a rushed lunch.
  • The whole thing takes less time than waiting for a sandwich to toast, but tastes like you actually tried.
  • That moment when the cheese hits the hot pan and starts bubbling—it never gets old.
02 -
  • Cold pizza is your friend—do not let it come to room temperature or it will be floppy and impossible to fold without falling apart.
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable; too high and your butter burns while the inside stays cold, too low and you end up with soggy bread instead of crispy edges.
  • The spatula flip is gentler than you think it needs to be; a confident but soft touch keeps everything intact.
03 -
  • Spread your softened butter at room temperature while your skillet preheats; this two-minute gap means the butter is ready exactly when you are.
  • If your pizza filling tries to escape during cooking, that's a sign you folded too gently or used too much chicken; next time, pack it tighter or use slightly less.
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