Pesto Chicken Pizza: How to Make This Mouth-Watering Homemade Pizza- in Just 7 Simple Steps!

Are you ready to experience pizza bliss? This Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe is a game-changer, packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients that will have your family begging for more. Making your own pizza at home doesn’t have to be complicated. In just a few steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade pizza with basil pesto, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella.

Origins of the Recipe

Pesto originated in the Liguria region of Italy, and when combined with the comforting flavors of a classic pizza, it becomes a fusion dish that’s both unique and timeless. The earthy richness of the pesto pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and cheese, making this pizza a showstopper on any table. Let’s jump in and make this amazing Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe from scratch!

Step 1: Homemade Pizza Dough for the Perfect Pesto Chicken Pizza

The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a soft, chewy, and crispy crust that will make your Pesto Chicken Pizza unforgettable.

Ingredients:

1. 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
2. 1½ cups warm water
3. 3½ cups all-purpose flour
4. 2 tbsp olive oil
5. 1 tsp sugar
6. 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast:

Combine sugar and warm water in a bowl, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.

2. Form the dough:

Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until the dough comes together.

3. Knead to perfection:

Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. Let it rise:

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about an hour until doubled.

4. Divide and rest:

Once risen, divide the dough into two portions and let them rest for 10 minutes before rolling out.

Step 2: Make the Best Basil Pesto for Pesto Chicken Pizza

Nothing beats the fresh flavor of homemade pesto, and it’s the heart of this Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a vibrant, rich sauce that elevates your pizza to gourmet status.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups fresh basil leaves
2. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. ⅓ cup pine nuts (walnuts work too!)
4. 2-3 garlic cloves
5. 2-3 garlic cloves
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blend it up:

In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until finely chopped.

2. Add olive oil:

Slowly drizzle olive oil while blending until smooth.

3. Season:

Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pesto Chicken Pizza for Ultimate Flavor

Here comes the fun part—assembling your Pesto Chicken Pizza! With your dough and pesto ready, it’s time to add the toppings that will make your pizza sing.

Ingredients:

1. ½ cup basil pesto
2. 1½ cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
3. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4. ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
5. 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
6. 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
7. Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
8. Olive oil for drizzling
9. Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) while you prepare the pizza.

2. Spread the pesto:

Roll out your pizza dough and spread a generous layer of basil pesto over the top.

3. Top it off:

Add chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and red onion evenly across the dough.

4. Season and bake:

Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

5. Garnish and enjoy:

Remove from the oven, add fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve!

Tips for Making the Perfect Pesto Chicken Pizza

• Use a Pizza Stone: For an extra crispy crust, bake your pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
• Use a Pizza Stone: For an extra crispy crust, bake your pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh basil, quality cheese, and tender chicken makes all the difference in the flavor!

Bonus: External Resource for Pizza Lovers

For more tips on crafting the perfect pizza dough, check out this guide to pizza dough perfection by King Arthur Baking. Mastering the art of dough is key to pizza greatness!

Step 4: Baking Your Pesto Chicken Pizza Like a Pro

The magic happens in the oven! Baking your Pesto Chicken Pizza at the right temperature ensures that your crust is perfectly crisp and the toppings meld together beautifully. Make sure to:

• Preheat thoroughly: Your oven should be hot before the pizza goes in to ensure even baking.
• Use the middle rack: This helps the pizza bake evenly and avoid burning the crust.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe

This Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe is everything you need for an unforgettable meal—easy, flavorful, and sure to impress! The combination of fresh basil pesto, juicy chicken, and perfectly melted cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a weekend dinner or a pizza night with friends, this pizza will have everyone asking for seconds! https://damndelicious.net/2017/01/24/chicken-pesto-pizza/

So go ahead, try this recipe today and experience pizza like never before!