Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of spicy chicken with pickled jalapenos offers a distinctive taste experience that’s both bold and satisfying.
• Homemade Goodness: Crafting the pizza from scratch allows you to customize flavors and ensure freshness in every bite.
• Simple Techniques: Utilizing a garlic-infused oil as the base instead of traditional tomato sauce adds depth and richness to the pizza.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose unbleached flour
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt

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

For the Garlic-Infused Oil:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Pinch of salt

For the Chicken Topping:

• 1 chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile (or your choice of chili powder)
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Assembling the Pizza:

• 1 cup pickled jalapenos
• 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
• Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, crema, additional pickled jalapenos

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of yeast in 3/4 cup warm water. Add 2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or at least 30 minutes if short on time.

2. Make the Garlic-Infused Oil: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture sit to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Cook the Chicken: Toss chopped chicken with 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile, 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (if using), 1/4 teaspoon salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté over medium-high heat until cooked through.

4. Assemble the Pizza: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough in half, then split one half into two portions for two thin 10″ pizzas. Roll out each portion on parchment paper to your desired thinness. Pre-bake the crusts for 1-2 minutes.

5. Add Toppings: Spread a thin layer of the garlic-infused oil on each pre-baked crust. Distribute the cooked chicken, cubed mozzarella, and pickled jalapenos evenly over the pizzas.

6. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted.

7. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, crema, or additional pickled jalapenos if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields two thin-crust 10″ pizzas, serving approximately 4 people.
• Preparation Time: Including dough rising, expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for added spice or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor.
• Sauce Alternative: If you prefer a saucier base, consider using a thin layer of tomato sauce or BBQ sauce beneath the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough can be used; follow the package instructions for preparation.

How can I make the crust crispier?

Rolling the dough thinner and pre-baking the crust before adding toppings can result in a crispier texture.

Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?

Pre-baking helps achieve a crispier crust and prevents sogginess from the toppings.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Yes, ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding it as a topping.

How do I adjust the spiciness?

Modify the amount of pickled jalapenos and chili powder to suit your heat preference.

Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, after the dough has risen, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add ingredients like olives, onions, or bell peppers to customize your pizza.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking?

Using parchment paper or a well-floured surface can help prevent sticking during rolling and baking.

Can I make mini pizzas instead of one large pizza?

Certainly, divide the dough into smaller portions for individual mini pizzas.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free pizza dough to suit your dietary needs.

Conclusion

This Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pizza. With the perfect blend of heat, tanginess, and savory goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a casual weeknight or serving it to guests, this pizza will impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures.