Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gourmet flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a restaurant-quality taste.
• Customizable: Swap out the chicken or herbs to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for gatherings: Impress friends and family with a pizza that’s both unique and delicious.
• Quick preparation: With cooked chicken and a pre-made dough, this recipe comes together easily.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1 Tablespoon butter
• 8 cloves roasted garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup skim milk
• 1/4 cup half and half
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Prepare a baking sheet with a Silpat liner or grease it lightly and sprinkle with cornmeal.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced roasted garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, ensuring it is well combined with the butter.
4. Slowly whisk in the skim milk and half and half. Add the black pepper and cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
6. On the prepared baking sheet, spread the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Evenly spread the white sauce over the dough.
7. Top the pizza with shredded chicken, diced red onion, and Mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 17 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh thyme, dried oregano, and parsley. Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.
• Cheese lovers: Add extra cheese, such as Gouda or Fontina, for a richer flavor.
• Herb swap: Use basil or rosemary instead of thyme and oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pizza dough and flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave for 30-45 seconds, though the crust may lose some crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked pizza dough?

Yes, pre-cooked or store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe.

2. How can I roast garlic at home?

Wrap garlic cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and bake at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until soft and golden.

3. Can I use a different sauce?

You can substitute the white sauce with Alfredo or pesto for a different flavor.

4. What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Cooked chicken can be shredded using two forks, a hand mixer, or even a stand mixer for larger quantities.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pizza up to step 6 and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.

6. Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

7. What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes.

8. Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives for a lactose-free option.

9. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.

10. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Ensure your sauce isn’t overly thick, and bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or steel for a crispy crust.

Conclusion

This Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza is a delightful mix of savory flavors and creamy textures that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply craving gourmet pizza, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction. Enjoy the rich, garlicky goodness with every bite!