Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe

Introduction

Pizza night at our house has always been a cherished tradition, but recently, we decided to shake things up with a new favorite: Buffalo Chicken Pizza. This recipe combines the beloved flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the comforting essence of pizza, creating a dish that pleases both spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. The first time I made this pizza, my family couldn’t get enough of it! The spicy buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the gooey mozzarella and tender chicken, while the optional jalapeños add just the right amount of heat. It’s now a staple in our home and a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pizza game. Let me walk you through this delicious recipe that is sure to impress at your next family dinner or game day gathering.

Ingredients

• 18-20 ounces pizza dough
• 1 (8 oz) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes, fully cooked
• 6-7 slices fresh mozzarella (about 8 oz ball)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• Sliced fresh jalapeño (optional)
• ⅓ cup flour (for crust)
• Pinch of salt
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven and allow it to preheat for at least 1 hour.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a small oiled pan over medium heat, cook the bite-sized chicken cubes until golden brown. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce and set aside.

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough:

• Roll out the pizza dough to form a 12-inch crust. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the dough to enhance flavor.

1. Transfer to Pizza Peel:

• Dust a pizza peel with flour to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the peel. Coat the top of the dough with buffalo sauce, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges.

1. Add Toppings:

• Evenly distribute the cooked chicken, fresh mozzarella slices, red onion, and jalapeño slices (if using) over the buffalo sauce-coated dough.

1. Bake the Pizza:

• Carefully slide the pizza from the peel onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

1. Serve:

• Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-400 calories (depends on crust thickness and specific toppings)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Cut the pizza into slices and arrange them on a large serving platter.
• Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• Garnish with additional sliced jalapeños or chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
• Pair with a light salad to balance the flavors.
• Enjoy with your favorite beverage, like a cold beer or soda, for a casual dining experience.

Additional Tips

1. Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For a quicker meal, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breast.
2. Homemade Dough: If you have time, make your own pizza dough for a fresh, homemade taste.
3. Spice Control: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your heat preference; start with less and add more to taste.
4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
5. Resting Time: Allow the pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Recipe Variations

• Veggie Lover’s Buffalo Pizza: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza: Swap out buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a sweeter twist.
• Cauliflower Crust: Use a cauliflower pizza crust for a low-carb option.
• Buffalo Chicken Flatbread: Use flatbreads instead of traditional pizza dough for a quick and easy version.
• Meat Lover’s Version: Add crumbled bacon or sausage to the toppings for a hearty pizza.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pizza alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks for a traditional buffalo wing experience.
• Consider pairing with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spice.
• Offer a selection of dips like garlic sauce or a spicy aioli for variety.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you have leftover uncooked pizza, it can be assembled and frozen before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen pizza dough?

• Yes, frozen pizza dough can be thawed and used for this recipe; just follow package instructions for thawing.

1. What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?

• You can substitute with a different hot sauce or barbecue sauce for a milder flavor.

1. Is this pizza gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust to make it gluten-free.

1. How spicy is this pizza?

• The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of buffalo sauce used and the addition of jalapeños.

1. Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the toppings in advance and assemble the pizza just before baking.

1. What’s the best way to slice the pizza?

• Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large chef’s knife to cut the pizza into even slices.

1. Can I add more cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle additional cheese on top for a cheesier pizza.

1. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

• Make sure the pizza stone is preheated, and avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet ingredients.

1. What’s the best type of chicken to use?

• Any fully cooked chicken works well, such as grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken.

1. Can I make this pizza vegan?
   • Use vegan cheese and substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or veggies.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the spicy flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the comfort of pizza. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers endless customization options to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, game day, or a casual dinner, this pizza is sure to impress and satisfy. With its golden crust, melty cheese, and zesty toppings, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, roll out that dough, and enjoy a slice of this mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Pizza!

Print