Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting your own pizza at home, and this Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza takes the experience to a whole new level. The combination of tender chicken, zesty jalapenos, and a hint of garlic-infused oil creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. My family absolutely loves this pizza; it’s become a regular request on our dinner rotation. Each bite brings a perfect balance of spice and creaminess from the mozzarella, making it a surefire hit for pizza night!

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Garlic-Infused Oil:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Pinch of salt

For the Chicken Topping:

• 1 chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile or preferred chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Assembling the Pizza:

• 1 cup pickled jalapenos
• 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
• Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, Crema, additional pickled jalapenos

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of yeast with 3/4 cup warm water. Stir to dissolve.
2. Add 2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing with a spoon as much as possible.
3. Transfer the mixture to a work surface and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or at least 30 minutes if you’re short on time.

Prepare Garlic-Infused Oil

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Use the back of a spoon to mash the garlic into the oil for extra flavor.

Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken with chile powder, chipotle powder (if using), salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
2. Sauté the chicken in a pan over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Assemble and Bake the Pizza

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough in half, then split one half into two portions for two thin 10″ pizzas.
2. Roll out each portion on parchment paper to your desired thinness. For the best results, pre-bake the crust for 1-2 minutes.
3. Spread a thin layer of garlic-infused oil on the pre-baked crust, then top with cooked chicken, mozzarella, and pickled jalapenos.

Bake

1. Bake the assembled pizza for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.

Serve

1. Garnish with cilantro, Crema, or extra pickled jalapenos if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This unique pizza is packed with bold, spicy flavors that balance perfectly with the garlic-oil base and thin, crispy crust!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 2 pizzas (4 slices each)
• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per slice
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 50 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (excluding dough rising time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot and fresh out of the oven.
• Top with optional garnishes like:
• Chopped cilantro
• A drizzle of Crema
• Additional pickled jalapenos for extra heat
• Pair with a refreshing salad or a cold beverage for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Dough Rising: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead. Just follow the instructions on the package.
2. Chicken Options: Feel free to substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or even grilled vegetables for a different flavor profile.
3. Jalapeno Level: Adjust the amount of pickled jalapenos according to your heat preference; less for mild, more for spicy!
4. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use a mix of bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach as toppings.
• Spicy BBQ Chicken Pizza: Substitute the garlic-infused oil with BBQ sauce and add cooked BBQ chicken for a tangy twist.
• White Pizza Style: Skip the tomato sauce and use a base of ricotta mixed with herbs as the foundation for a white pizza version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your pizza with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks for an indulgent meal.
• Enjoy with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea to balance the spiciness.

Freezing and Storage

• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of flour for the dough?

• Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

1. What if I don’t have yeast?

• You can make a quick no-yeast dough with baking powder instead, but it will have a different texture.

1. Can I add more toppings?

• Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pizza with your favorite toppings.

1. How can I make the dough ahead of time?

• You can make the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it sit at room temperature before using.

1. What type of pan is best for baking pizza?

• A pizza stone or a cast-iron skillet will give you a crispy crust, but a baking sheet works too.

1. Can I use fresh jalapenos instead of pickled?

• Yes, fresh jalapenos can be used; just slice them thinly and adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

1. How can I make the pizza spicier?

• Add more chipotle powder or include fresh chili flakes for an extra kick.

1. Is it possible to make this pizza vegan?

• Yes, substitute chicken with a plant-based protein and use vegan cheese.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for a crispy crust.

1. Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
   • Yes, ground turkey, beef, or even shrimp would work great on this pizza.

Conclusion

The Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza is a delightful and zesty twist on a classic favorite. With its flavorful toppings and crispy crust, this pizza is sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a casual dinner, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe brings bold flavors that everyone will enjoy. Get ready to savor each bite and make this pizza a regular on your menu!

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