If you’re looking for a pizza that packs a flavorful punch, look no further than this buffalo chicken pizza recipe! With its spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy ranch drizzle, this dish is sure to excite your taste buds and impress your guests. Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, this pizza is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pizza crust
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 280 calories, 12g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g protein. This is based on one slice from a standard 12-inch pizza.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Roll out the pre-made pizza crust on a floured surface.
- Transfer the crust to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well-coated.
- Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
- Slice and serve hot!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of honey to balance the heat.
Serving and Pairings
This buffalo chicken pizza pairs well with a crisp green salad or celery sticks. A side of extra ranch or blue cheese dressing enhances the flavors and provides a cooling contrast to the spice.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This pizza can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before baking.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much sauce can make the pizza soggy.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Overcooking the pizza can burn the crust.
- Forgetting to slice the pizza before serving can make it difficult to enjoy.
- Skipping the garnishes can lessen the visual appeal and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch.
- Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
FAQs
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and assemble the pizza in advance. Just bake it before serving for the best results.
What type of chicken should I use?
Cooked, shredded chicken works best. You can use grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Is there a vegetarian version of buffalo chicken pizza?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets tossed in buffalo sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
How spicy is this pizza?
The spiciness depends on the buffalo sauce used. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking it. Alternatively, baked pizza can be frozen but may have a different texture when reheated.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken pizza recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy bold flavors in a beloved classic. With simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can wow your guests and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for any occasion, this pizza is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Roll out the pre-made pizza crust on a floured surface.
- Transfer the crust to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well-coated.
- Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
- Slice and serve hot!
