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Chicken Pizza 

ByPiroska

Chicken Pizza Recipe for Four

Chicken pizza is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, a crispy crust, and a blend of cheeses and sauces. This recipe is designed to serve four people and is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this chicken pizza will become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you prepare a delicious meal with ease.

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup pizza sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparing the Dough

Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle with a little more flour as needed.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. While the dough is rising, you can prepare the chicken and other toppings.

Cooking the Chicken

To prepare the chicken, start by preheating a skillet over medium heat. While the pan heats, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the skillet, then add the chicken.

Cook the chicken breasts for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Assembling the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. A baking sheet or pizza pan will also work well for this recipe.

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet or pizza peel if using a pizza stone. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces evenly across the pizza, followed by the red onion slices and black olives if you choose to include them. Add the remaining mozzarella and the cheddar cheese on top for a flavorful, bubbly finish.

Baking the Pizza

Carefully place the pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and slightly browned in spots. Keep a close eye on the pizza during the final few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the cheese to settle slightly and makes slicing easier. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pizza pairs wonderfully with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or a bowl of tomato soup. A chilled sparkling water or a glass of lemonade complements the flavors well, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

To serve, slice the pizza into eight wedges and distribute among four plates. Each person gets two slices, making it the perfect portion for a fulfilling dinner. If you have leftovers, the pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in an oven or toaster oven to maintain its crisp texture.

Tips for Success

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your chicken pizza turns out perfectly every time. First, allow the dough to rest after kneading, which helps it become more elastic and easier to roll out. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pizza dough, though homemade offers a fresher taste and texture.

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs adds depth and enhances the overall taste. Likewise, experimenting with different cheeses such as provolone or gouda can give the pizza a unique twist.

Finally, if you enjoy a crispy crust, pre-bake the rolled-out dough for 5 minutes before adding the toppings. This technique helps the crust hold up under the weight of the sauce and toppings while developing a nice crunch.

Final Thoughts

Creating a delicious chicken pizza at home is easier than it may seem. With a bit of planning and quality ingredients, you can craft a meal that rivals your favorite pizzeria. The combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a flavorful crust makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser that your family and friends will love. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this chicken pizza offers both comfort and satisfaction in every slice.

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