This Pesto Chicken Pizza offers a delightful combination of creamy, herbaceous basil pesto layered over a crisp pizza crust, topped with juicy shredded chicken, melty mozzarella, and bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes. The fresh basil garnish adds a pop of color and aroma, making each slice as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this pizza brings the comforting satisfaction of homemade pizza together with the bright, fresh flavors of pesto. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that showcases how a few quality ingredients can create a gourmet experience right at home.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 refrigerated pizza crust (12-inch)
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1/2 cup basil pesto
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1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
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Olive oil, for brushing
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Roll out the pizza crust on a lightly floured surface and place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
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Brush the crust lightly with olive oil to prevent sogginess.
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Spread the basil pesto evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Sprinkle shredded chicken over the pesto layer.
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Add mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken.
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Scatter chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced red onion on top.
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 420 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Basil Pesto?
Basil pesto is a classic Italian sauce made primarily from fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Its vibrant green color and aromatic, fresh flavor bring a bright note to any dish. Unlike a tomato sauce, which has a sweet and tangy base, pesto offers an earthier, herbaceous taste that pairs wonderfully with chicken and cheese.
Using pesto as a pizza sauce is a creative choice that taps into Mediterranean flavors, making the pizza feel more sophisticated without requiring complicated ingredients. It’s also a great way to add a fresh element to pizza, especially when paired with the vibrant toppings and fresh basil garnish.
Nutritional Benefits and Considerations
Pesto Chicken Pizza is not only tasty but can be reasonably nutritious depending on ingredient choices. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, while the basil in pesto offers antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The olive oil in pesto contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health.
However, as with many pizzas, this dish can be calorie-dense due to the cheese and crust. Opting for a whole-wheat or cauliflower crust can increase fiber content and add nutrients. Using moderate amounts of cheese and incorporating vegetables like red onion and sun-dried tomatoes help balance the richness and add beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best features of this pizza is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit dietary needs or personal preferences. For example, to make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts. For a low-carb option, use a cauliflower crust or a thin flatbread base.
The toppings can also be adjusted—adding fresh tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can add new dimensions of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot honey or crushed red pepper can offer a sweet and spicy kick.
Making It at Home: Convenience Meets Flavor
This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner because it uses store-bought pizza dough and pre-cooked chicken, dramatically cutting down preparation time. Despite its simplicity, the end result feels special and gourmet, which makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Making pizza at home also means you have full control over the ingredients, from the type of pesto used to the amount of cheese and toppings. This helps in tailoring the dish to your own nutritional and flavor preferences while enjoying the satisfaction of homemade cooking.
The Perfect Occasion for Pesto Chicken Pizza
Pesto Chicken Pizza suits many occasions, from casual family dinners to informal parties. Its bright flavors and colorful presentation make it appealing to both adults and children. It’s also great for meal prepping: leftovers can be reheated and enjoyed the next day, maintaining much of their original flavor and texture.
For social gatherings, you can prepare several pizzas with different toppings, including this pesto chicken variety, offering guests a range of options. The quick bake time ensures you can get hot, fresh pizzas to the table without much hassle.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the flavors of Pesto Chicken Pizza, consider pairing it with a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, which will add refreshing acidity and balance the richness of the cheese and pesto. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can also enhance the herbal notes of the basil pesto.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime works well to cleanse the palate between bites.
Storage and Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave to preserve the crispness of the crust. To keep the basil fresh and vibrant, add fresh basil leaves just before serving rather than reheating them.
Conclusion
Pesto Chicken Pizza is a wonderful way to reinvent a beloved comfort food with fresh, vibrant flavors and simple ingredients. Its balance of creamy pesto, savory chicken, and melty cheese on a crisp crust makes it both satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this pizza delivers on flavor and ease.
The flexibility of the recipe allows it to fit various dietary needs and preferences, while its sophisticated taste brings a touch of gourmet flair to everyday dining. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, Pesto Chicken Pizza is a delicious, crowd-pleasing addition to any recipe collection.