If you’re looking for a pizza that packs a punch, look no further than this buffalo chicken pizza recipe! Combining tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy ranch dressing, this dish is a game-changer for pizza night. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this pizza will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pizza crust
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 15g protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Spread the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Evenly spread the buffalo chicken over the pizza crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
- Add blue cheese crumbles if desired.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or use cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option. Additionally, swap buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This buffalo chicken pizza pairs wonderfully with a side salad or vegetable sticks. It also goes great with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pizza 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 be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before baking.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overload the pizza with sauce; it can make the crust soggy.
- Ensure your oven is preheated for the best crust texture.
- Use cooked chicken to avoid undercooking raw chicken on the pizza.
- Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing to avoid mess.
- Don’t skip the ranch dressing; it balances the spiciness.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
- Try adding sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance presentation.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice tolerance.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce?
Yes, store-bought buffalo sauce is a convenient option and works perfectly for this recipe. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How can I make this pizza healthier?
To make this pizza healthier, use whole wheat crust, reduce cheese, and load up on vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble the pizza ahead of time, then store it in the fridge before baking.
What if I don’t like blue cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, simply omit it or replace it with feta cheese or extra mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even a meat alternative for a different twist.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken pizza recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines spicy, savory, and creamy elements for a delightful meal. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite and share with friends!
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles optional
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Spread the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Evenly spread the buffalo chicken over the pizza crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
- Add blue cheese crumbles if desired.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving.
