Fresh Chicken Pesto Pizza
A delightful fusion of basil pesto, mozzarella cheese, and tender chicken, this pizza is perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 pizza stone optional
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package instant yeast 2 1/4 tsp
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pizza Toppings
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast sliced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- While dough is rising, slice the cooked chicken breast and prepare other toppings like cherry tomatoes and red onion.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to your desired thickness on a floured surface.
- Spread a thin layer of basil pesto over the rolled dough, then top with chicken, mozzarella, and optional toppings.
Serving
- Transfer the assembled pizza to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing into 8 pieces. Serve warm with your favorite side dish.
Storage
- Place any leftover pizza in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality. If you don't have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works well too.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken for turkey or use a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option.
How to Serve: Serve with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge to save time.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken for turkey or use a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option.
How to Serve: Serve with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge to save time.