Few things are as universally loved as pizza, and when topped with tender, flavorful chicken, it becomes an instant favorite. Chicken Pizza offers a delicious twist on the classic, combining juicy chicken with melted cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and a perfectly baked crust. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, this pizza is guaranteed to impress.
Why Chicken Pizza?
Chicken pizza is a versatile dish, offering endless possibilities for customization. The combination of savory chicken and gooey cheese is comforting, while the crispy crust adds just the right amount of texture. You can make it spicy, smoky, or sweet depending on the sauce and seasonings you choose, making it the perfect blank canvas for creativity.
Ingredient Notes:
- Pizza dough: The base of the pizza, provides the chewy, crisp crust. Letting it rest at room temperature makes it easier to stretch and roll out.
- Cornmeal & all-purpose flour: Used to prevent sticking while rolling and transferring the dough, giving the crust a slightly crunchy texture when baked.
- Olive oil: Brushed on the dough to help crisp the crust and add a slight richness.
- Barbecue sauce: Acts as the pizza sauce, adding a tangy, sweet, and smoky flavor that complements the chicken and cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella & smoked Gouda cheese: Mozzarella provides a melty, gooey texture, while smoked Gouda adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with the barbecue sauce and chicken.
- Cooked chicken breast: The protein topping for the pizza, adding tender, flavorful bites that complement the sauce and cheese.
- Red onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite and a bit of crunch, balancing the richness of the cheese and barbecue sauce.
- Fresh cilantro: Used as a garnish, adding a bright, fresh flavor that complements the smoky, tangy elements of the pizza.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the pizza with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple mix of greens with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent experience, serve the pizza alongside garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs wonderfully with the cheesy pizza, making it a perfect side for a cozy night.
- Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor profile by serving a variety of dipping sauces. Marinara, ranch, or even a garlic aioli can elevate your pizza-eating experience.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pizza
- Cook the Chicken Just Right: Ensure your chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so keep an eye on it and use high-quality cuts for the best results.
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix in other cheeses like provolone, parmesan, or gouda. These cheeses can add depth to the flavor and create a more complex, satisfying bite.
- Use a Pizza Stone: For the perfect crust, consider using a pizza stone. Preheating the stone before placing your pizza on it helps create that crispy bottom that everyone loves in a good pizza.
A Slice of Joy in Every Bite
Whether you prefer your chicken pizza simple or loaded with toppings, one thing is for sure: it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy crust is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or savoring a slice on your own, this chicken pizza recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again.
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
Lemon Butter Chicken
Lemon Chicken Pasta
Lemon Chicken Romano
Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough at room temperature at least 60 minutes
- Finely ground cornmeal for dusting
- All-purpose flour for rolling out the dough
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce divided
- 1 cup low-moisture shredded mozzarella cheese 4 ounces, divided
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese 4 ounces, divided
- 8 ounces cooked chicken breast chopped into bite-sized pieces, divided
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion divided
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the rack in the bottom third of the oven, put a heavy baking sheet on top of the rack, and heat to 450 ° F.
- Divide the pizza dough into 2 parts. Dust a 12-inch piece of parchment paper with cornmeal put a piece of dough on it and roll in a thin, 10-inch circle.
- If the dough is sticky, sprinkle with a bit of all-purpose flour.
- Easily place the preheated baking sheet from the oven and then use the parchment paper to slip the dough directly it onto the back of the baking sheet.
- Brush the dough with half the olive oil, then spread half the barbecue sauce over the dough in a thin layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and the smoked Gouda cheese. Spread half of the chicken and the onion over the cheese.
- Bake until the edges are golden-brown and crisp, for 12 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and let it cool for two min before slicing and serving.
- Repeat the left dough and the toppings.
Pin this delicious recipe on Pinterest to save and share with your foodie friends!
Chicken Pizza