Chicken Pesto Pizza

There’s something magical about creating your very own pizza right in your kitchen, and that’s exactly what I felt the first time I made Chicken Pesto Pizza. I vividly remember the aroma of the freshly baked dough filling the air, making my family gather around in excitement. The vibrant colors of the toppings were a feast for the eyes, and the anticipation of that first bite made my heart race. Each ingredient tells a story, from the chewy crust to the creamy mozzarella and flavorful pesto. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a canvas for creativity and a chance to share joy with loved ones.

Chicken Pesto Pizza Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a fantastic Chicken Pesto Pizza. Each component plays a vital role in delivering a delicious flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

• 1 (16-oz) ball pizza dough
• ¾ cup pizza sauce
• 6 Tbsp basil pesto, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ lb grilled chicken strips
• ½ cup grape tomatoes, cut in half
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Preparation Steps for Chicken Pesto Pizza

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—preparing the Chicken Pesto Pizza. The process is straightforward and rewarding as you watch your creation come to life!

1. Preheat your oven to 450ºF. This is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy crust that we all love. A hot oven ensures that the bottom of the pizza gets that golden brown color.

2. Roll out the ball of pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter. You want the dough to be evenly thick to ensure consistent cooking.

3. In a small bowl, mix pizza sauce with ¼ cup of basil pesto. This blend will serve as the flavorful base of your pizza. Spread this sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edge.

4. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey layer that holds everything together.

5. In another bowl, toss the cooked chicken strips with 2 tablespoons of basil pesto. This step infuses the chicken with more flavor. Layer the chicken on top of the cheese.

6. Add the halved grape tomatoes on top of the chicken. Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory flavors.

7. Sprinkle the garlic powder over the entire pizza to enhance its flavor profile. This little touch will make a big difference!

8. Carefully transfer the pizza to your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the crust should be golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and melted.

9. Once done, carefully take the pizza out of the oven. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. This adds a touch of freshness that elevates the entire pizza.

10. Slice the pizza into wedges using a sharp pizza cutter. Serve hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to keep in mind while making your Chicken Pesto Pizza:

• Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pizza before baking it. Just wrap it tightly and store for up to three months.
• Pairing: This pizza pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Extras: Add red onion or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
• Freshness: Always use fresh ingredients when possible for the best flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pizza

Serving Chicken Pesto Pizza is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present it:

• Cut into wedges: Serve the pizza cut into slices for easy sharing.
• Pair with salads: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the pizza.
• Perfect for gatherings: This pizza is ideal for parties or casual dinners with friends.
• Seasonal toppings: Try seasonal fruits or vegetables as toppings to brighten the dish.
• Unique serving styles: Consider serving it on a wooden board for a rustic touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Pesto Pizza is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it a standout dish in any home. With its customizable nature, it’s perfect for any occasion, be it a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. Gather your family, roll out that dough, and dive into a delightful pizza experience!

Chicken Pesto Pizza

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Pesto Pizza combines crispy crust, flavorful pesto, and gooey cheese for an easy weeknight dinner. This delightful dish is bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. Make it tonight for a delicious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 430

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 16-oz pizza dough
• ¾ cup pizza sauce
• 6 Tbsp basil pesto divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ lb grilled chicken strips
• ½ cup grape tomatoes cut in half
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Pizza Pan
• Pizza Steel
• Pizza Stone
• Rotary Cheese Grater
• Pizza Cutter

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 450ºF. This is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy crust that we all love. A hot oven ensures that the bottom of the pizza gets that golden brown color.
2. Roll out the ball of pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter. You want the dough to be evenly thick to ensure consistent cooking.
3. In a small bowl, mix pizza sauce with ¼ cup of basil pesto. This blend will serve as the flavorful base of your pizza. Spread this sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edge.
4. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey layer that holds everything together.
5. In another bowl, toss the cooked chicken strips with 2 tablespoons of basil pesto. This step infuses the chicken with more flavor. Layer the chicken on top of the cheese.
6. Add the halved grape tomatoes on top of the chicken. Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory flavors.
7. Sprinkle the garlic powder over the entire pizza to enhance its flavor profile. This little touch will make a big difference!
8. Carefully transfer the pizza to your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the crust should be golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and melted.
9. Once done, carefully take the pizza out of the oven. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. This adds a touch of freshness that elevates the entire pizza.
10. Slice the pizza into wedges using a sharp pizza cutter. Serve hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the pizza before baking it. Just wrap it tightly and store for up to three months.
• Tip 3: This pizza pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Add red onion or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
• Tip 5: Always use fresh ingredients when possible for the best flavor.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.