If you are on the hunt for a delightful twist on classic pizza that promises rich flavors and a comforting texture, then the Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This pizza blends a tender homemade crust with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, topped generously with sautéed chicken, fresh tomatoes, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses that melt into a golden dream. Every bite offers a harmonious balance of creamy, savory, and fresh elements that make it a favorite whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Once you try this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, it’s likely to become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the cornerstone of this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. Each component is simple yet essential, ensuring a perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant colors in the final dish.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast to give your dough its perfect rise and softness.
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough light and airy.
- 1/2 tbsp honey: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the dough tender while adding a subtle richness.
- 2 cups plus 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: The base that creates a chewy and satisfying crust.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Enhances every flavor in both dough and sauce.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for a silky, rich creamy garlic sauce.
- 2 tbsp flour (for sauce): Thickens the creamy garlic sauce to just the right consistency.
- 1 1/4 cup milk: Provides creaminess for the sauce without overwhelming richness.
- 1/4 tsp salt (for sauce): Balances the sauce perfectly.
- 1/8 tsp pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the sauce.
- 2-3 garlic cloves (minced): The star flavor in the sauce, giving it that irresistible aroma and zing.
- 2 tbsp fresh basil (finely chopped): Infuses freshness and a burst of herbal brightness in the sauce.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded): Brings a salty, nutty complexity to the creamy sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese (12 slices or grated): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
- 1 large chicken breast (sautéed and diced): Tender and flavorful protein that makes the pizza hearty.
- 2 medium tomatoes (diced): Adds juiciness and a pop of color to balance the richness.
- 2 tbsp basil (coarsely torn): Perfect for garnishing with fresh herbal notes on top.
- 5 medium mushrooms (sliced): Earthy and meaty, they add a wonderful texture contrast.
How to Make Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining warm water and the active dry yeast in your bread maker or mixing bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes until you notice the yeast activate, bubbling slightly. This step is crucial as it ensures your dough rises beautifully, creating that soft, chewy base we’re after in this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
Add the remaining dough ingredients—honey, olive oil, all-purpose flour, and salt—into the bread maker in the order listed. Select the dough setting and let the machine work its magic. If you’re mixing by hand, knead the dough until smooth and slightly sticky. The stickiness means you’re on the right track; an oiled surface will make handling much easier as you shape the crust.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the dough is resting and rising, prepare the sauce. Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour, cooking until it forms a smooth roux but without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and finely chopped basil; let this mixture thicken until creamy and fragrant. Finish it off by stirring in the parmesan cheese, which gives the sauce its signature savory depth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll out the dough on an oiled surface into a large circle or your preferred shape. Spread a generous layer of the creamy garlic sauce over the base, making sure every inch is covered. Layer on the sautéed and diced chicken, then scatter the diced tomatoes and sliced mushrooms evenly across the surface. Top it all with mozzarella cheese slices or grated mozzarella for that indulgent melt.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your assembled pizza onto a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles and slightly browns. The aroma alone will have you eagerly anticipating the first bite.
How to Serve Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly torn basil leaves scattered atop the hot pizza add a vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the creamy garlic sauce. A light drizzle of olive oil after baking can also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
I love pairing this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe with a crisp, refreshing green salad dressed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the pizza. Garlic breadsticks or a simple roasted vegetable medley also make excellent accompaniments for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pizza on a wooden board with small bowls of extra parmesan cheese, chili flakes, and fresh basil on the side. You can even cut the pizza into square “party” slices for easy sharing at gatherings, making it a crowd favorite every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pizza slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe even as a quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, freeze the cooked pizza slices on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Frozen pizza slices can last up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To keep that crispy crust and gooey cheese, reheat pizza slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy and the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-made dough can save time and still yield delicious results. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping for easier handling.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to the chicken topping?
Yes! You can swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even chickpeas to keep it hearty while sticking to the creamy garlic base.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove with a little milk to refresh its creamy texture before spreading on the pizza dough.
What kind of cheese works best on this pizza?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for meltiness, but you can mix in provolone or fontina for more depth. Parmesan is key in the sauce but can also be sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the pizza dough from sticking while rolling?
Lightly oil your rolling surface and hands rather than using too much flour. This keeps the dough pliable and prevents drying out, resulting in a perfect crust.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chicken Pizza with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy hug that’s full of flavor and comfort. It’s a wonderful way to impress family or friends, or simply treat yourself to a homemade creation with flair. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you’ll love how the creamy garlic sauce elevates the classic chicken pizza into something truly special.
