Buffalo chicken pizza is a mouthwatering twist on classic pizza that combines the spicy tang of buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re craving a fun dinner or want to impress guests with a flavorful homemade pizza, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into how you can make buffalo chicken pizza right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a delicious buffalo chicken pizza, gather the following ingredients:
– Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought, about 1 lb)
– Shredded cooked chicken (about 1½ cups)
– Buffalo sauce (around ¼ to ⅓ cup, plus extra for drizzling)
– Mozzarella cheese (1½ cups shredded)
– Blue cheese dressing or Ranch dressing (¼ cup, plus extra for serving)
– Pizza sauce (optional, about ½ cup)
– Red onions (¼ cup, thinly sliced)
– Banana pepper rings (¼ cup, patted dry)
– Butter, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder (for garlic butter crust)
– Chives or green onions, red pepper flakes, and parsley (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors that buffalo chicken pizza is famous for.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats to help achieve a crispier crust.
Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly greased pizza pan or a floured surface to about a 12-inch circle. Use a fork to poke holes in the dough to prevent bubbles during baking.
2. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and about a tablespoon of blue cheese or ranch dressing. This allows the chicken to soak up the spicy, creamy flavors before going on the pizza.
3. Assemble the Pizza
– Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough if you like a saucier base.
– Sprinkle most of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
– Distribute the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on top.
– Add sliced red onions and banana pepper rings for a little crunch and tang.
– Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
– Drizzle some blue cheese dressing and a little more buffalo sauce over the pizza for extra flavor.
4. Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 13 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust starts to turn golden.
5. Add Garlic Butter Crust and Finish Baking
Mix melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture over the crust edges of the pizza. Return the pizza to the oven for another 2-3 minutes to brown the crust beautifully and add a savory garlic flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish your buffalo chicken pizza with chopped chives or green onions, red pepper flakes for some heat, and fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Pizza
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add great flavor.
– Choose low-moisture mozzarella cheese to avoid a soggy crust.
– Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce or choosing a milder sauce if you prefer less spice.
– Try different garnishes like celery slices or pickled jalapeños for added crunch and zest.
– Use a pizza stone if you have one; it helps make the crust crispier and cooks the pizza more evenly.
Why Buffalo Chicken Pizza Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This pizza combines the beloved flavors of buffalo wings with the comfort of pizza. The spicy buffalo sauce paired with creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing creates a delicious contrast that’s irresistible. Plus, the tender shredded chicken and melty mozzarella cheese make every bite satisfying. It’s perfect for game nights, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
Making buffalo chicken pizza at home is easier than you think and allows you to customize the toppings to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a classic bar snack into your kitchen with a fresh twist.
Enjoy your homemade buffalo chicken pizza with a cold drink and good company!
Buffalo chicken pizza is a spicy, cheesy delight that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a slice of this flavorful favorite tonight!