Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
Hey there! So, I’ve got this pizza recipe that’s a real game-changer in our household. It all started one rainy Sunday when we were craving something hearty but fancy (you know those days, right?). This Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza was born out of necessity and a bit of pantry scrounging. What I love about it is the delightful mix of flavors – it’s like a little party on a crust! And, funny story, my cat once almost stole a piece, thinking it was some gourmet treat just for him. Clearly, it’s that good!
Why You’ll Love This
I whip this one up when we’re in the mood for something indulgent yet homemade (and when delivery just won’t cut it). My family goes bonkers over this pizza because it’s got that perfect blend of crispy crust, creamy garlic sauce, and juicy chicken topped with fresh herbs. If you’re a fan of garlic like we are, you’ll be licking your fingers (and maybe the plate, who am I to judge?). Sometimes, the dough can be a bit finicky, but trust me, it’s worth the effort.
What You’ll Need
- Pizza dough – Store-bought is fine, though I sometimes make my own when I have time.
- 1 head of garlic, roasted (or 2 if you’re really into garlic, like my husband!)
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken – leftover rotisserie works wonders.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese – or just a handful, I never measure exactly.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (my grandma swore by Kraft, but any brand is okay).
- Fresh herbs – basil, thyme, rosemary, mix and match as you like.
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’ve got a pizza stone, go ahead and heat that up too – it makes a world of difference. But if not, a baking sheet will do. Now, roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface. Don’t stress if it’s not a perfect circle – mine never are, and they still taste amazing!
Next, squeeze the roasted garlic into a small bowl and mix it with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture over your dough. Trust me, this is where the magic happens!
Layer on your shredded chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Scatter the herbs on top like you’re channeling your inner chef. Pop the pizza into the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
This is where I usually sneak a taste – a chef’s privilege!
My Little Discoveries
Here’s the thing: don’t overload the pizza with too many toppings, or it’ll get soggy. And you might want to let it cool for a bit before diving in, but I often skip this step because patience is not my strong suit when it comes to pizza.
Twists I’ve Tried
Once, I swapped the chicken for mushrooms for my vegetarian friend, and it was a big hit! Though, I tried adding pineapple once, thinking it could be a fun twist – but, not everything is sweet and savory. You live and learn!
Got the Tools?
A pizza stone is grand, yet a regular baking sheet works just fine. No pizza cutter? Scissors can do the trick in a pinch; they’re surprisingly effective!
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have them) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day! Reheat in the oven or a skillet to keep that crust crisp.
Ways to Serve
I love serving this pizza with a simple green salad on the side. It’s a nice way to balance out the richness of the pizza. Or, if it’s a family movie night, we just dive in straight with some cold drinks.
Pro Tips from My Oven
Don’t rush the dough resting process – I once did, and it turned out more like a cracker than a crust. Also, roasting the garlic ahead of time saves lots of stress.
Your Questions, Answered!
Can I make the dough from scratch? Absolutely! Though, I tend to cheat and buy it when I’m pressed for time.
Do I have to roast the garlic? Well, you could skip it, but roasted garlic has a sweeter, milder flavor that’s really worth the extra step.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs work in a pinch – just use a bit less since they’re more concentrated.
Feel free to play around and make it your own! Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Happy pizza making!
