Pizza and chicken are both popular food items that are commonly paired together. The combination of pizza crust, tomato sauce, cheese, and chicken can result in a tasty dish when done right. However, not all pizzas with chicken are created equal. There are some key factors to consider when determining if pizza and chicken go well together.
The Type of Chicken Matters
One of the most important factors in a chicken pizza is choosing the right type of chicken. Bland, dry chicken breast is probably not the best option, as it will not have much flavor of its own to add to the pizza. On the other hand, more flavorful dark meat chicken thighs or drumsticks can provide a tasty boost to a pizza. The crispiness and seasoning of chicken wings or tenders also pairs nicely with pizza components.
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken tends to work better than fried or breaded chicken on pizza. Grilling gives the chicken a nice char and smoky flavor that complements the cheese and sauce well. Frying or breading chicken first can make it too greasy and heavy for pizza.
Chicken Sausage or Bacon
If going for an all-topping chicken pizza, swapping out some of the chicken for chicken sausage or bacon can provide a delicious textural contrast. The crispness and saltiness of the sausage or bacon balances nicely with the other toppings.
Buffalo Chicken
Spicy buffalo chicken pizza is a popular variation of chicken pizza. The buffalo chicken provides the pizza with a zesty kick, and pairs especially well with blue cheese crumbles. The cool cheese balances out the heat.
Cheese Choice Impacts Flavor Profile
The type of cheese used on a chicken pizza also affects the flavor experience. Here are some cheese considerations:
Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella is a typical pizza cheese and melts nicely. However, for chicken pizza, a aged, drier mozzarella provides a more pronounced, salty flavor that better stands up to the chicken.
Cheddar
Cheddar, especially sharp cheddar, can provide a stronger, sharper cheese flavor to balance the chicken. White cheddar also gives a color contrast.
Blue Cheese
Crumbled blue cheese pairs perfectly with spicy buffalo chicken pizza. The tanginess cuts through the heat.
Parmesan
Grated parmesan can provide a nice salty, nutty accent to chicken pizza. A parmesan dusting can be added on top of or in place of another cheese.
Goat Cheese
The tangy, creamy flavor of goat cheese is a unique option for chicken pizza. It spreads nicely and adds a distinctive flavor profile.
Sauce Options Beyond Tomato Sauce
While a classic tomato sauce is the go-to for many pizzas, including chicken pizza, some other sauce options can elevate a chicken pizza:
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue chicken pizza is popular for a reason. Sweet and tangy barbecue sauce gives the pizza a tasty zing.
Ranch Sauce
Cool and creamy ranch sauce makes a delicious base for buffalo chicken pizza and other chicken varieties.
Alfredo Sauce
For a richer, creamier take, an alfredo sauce base pairs nicely with chicken.
Pesto
Nutty basil pesto makes a great spread on the crust before adding cheese and chicken toppings.
Hummus
For a healthier, Mediterranean flair, garlicky hummus can sub for tomato sauce under the chicken.
Topping Combinations Enhance Flavor
Chicken pizza shines when you use complementary toppings to bring out the best flavors. Here are some topping ideas:
Onions and Peppers
Caramelized onions and bell peppers add a nice sweetness and crunch.
Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms lend an earthy, meaty quality.
Pineapple and Bacon
This classic combo adds sweet and salty contrast to chicken pizza.
Artichokes and Spinach
For a veggie vibe, artichoke hearts and spinach provide texture and freshness.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Toppings
| Topping | Flavor/Texture Provided |
|---|---|
| Red onion | Piquant flavor |
| Cilantro | Fresh, bright flavor |
| Corn | Sweetness and crunch |
Crust Choice Can Make or Break It
A pizza is only as good as its crust, so crust choice is key for chicken pizza. Here are some winning options:
Thin, Crispy Crust
A thin, crispy crust provides a nice contrasting crunch to the chicken and cheese toppings.
Stuffed Crust
A pizza with a cheese-filled stuffed crust gives you an extra cheesy boost in every bite.
Thick, Airy Crust
A more bready, tender crust can hold up well under juicy toppings.
Cauliflower Crust
For a low-carb option, cauliflower crust has a tender, almost nutty flavor.
Garlic Butter Crust
Brushing the crust with garlic butter before baking infuses it with so much flavor.
Methods to Get Chicken Pizza Just Right
Proper cooking methods are imperative to end up with a delicious chicken pizza. Follow these tips:
Partially Pre-Cook Chicken
To ensure the chicken gets fully cooked through, it helps to sauté or bake it first before topping the pizza.
Spread Sauce Thinly
Use a light hand with the sauce to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
Add Cheese Below and Above Chicken
Putting some cheese down first helps bind the toppings, while extra cheese on top adds gooey appeal.
Cook Thoroughly
Pizza ovens or higher oven temperatures ensure the center bakes through without burning the outside.
Let Sit Before Serving
Letting the pizza rest a few minutes after baking allows the juices to settle so your slice isn’t a soggy mess.
Key Considerations for Leftover Chicken Pizza
Like most pizza varieties, leftover chicken pizza makes a tasty next day meal. Here are some tips for enjoying leftovers:
Reheat Thoroughly
It’s important to reheat the pizza to 165°F throughout to prevent bacterial growth.
Use the Oven or Toaster Oven
The oven or toaster oven will crisp up the crust better than the microwave.
Store Tightly Wrapped
Wrapping the leftover pizza tightly in plastic wrap or foil prevents the crust from drying out in the fridge.
Consider a Breakfast Pizza
For a fun twist, top leftover chicken pizza with an egg and enjoy for breakfast.
Freeze It
For longer term leftover use, you can freeze the pizza up to 2-3 months then reheat as needed.
Conclusion
Chicken can make a delightful addition to pizza when you choose ingredients that pair well, such as flavorful chicken, bold sauces, vibrant vegetables, and a sturdy crust. Pay attention to cooking methods as well foroptimal results. Follow these guidelines, and chicken pizza can be elevated into a crave-worthy mealtime treat.
