Description
This Chicken Crust Pizza offers a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza by using a ground chicken crust. Topped with savory pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, green bell peppers, and jalapeños, it combines protein-rich, flavorful ingredients in a quick and easy baked dish perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper (about ½ medium pepper)
- ¼ cup tame or pickled jalapeños (drained and patted dry)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Crushed red pepper (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a round pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine crust ingredients: In a bowl, mix ground chicken, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the crust: Spread the chicken mixture into a thin circle about 10 to 12 inches in diameter on the prepared pan. Use damp hands or a spatula to smooth the edges and create an even thickness.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the oven for 22 to 25 minutes until it is cooked through and golden around the edges. If moisture pools on the crust, carefully blot it with a paper towel to remove excess liquid.
- Add toppings and increase temperature: Raise the oven temperature to 425°F. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Add diced green bell peppers and jalapeños evenly, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the topped pizza: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Optionally, broil the pizza for 2 minutes to achieve extra crispiness—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and serve: Let the pizza rest for 3 to 5 minutes so it sets and holds together well. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and crushed red pepper if desired, then slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Blot excess moisture from the crust after the first bake to prevent a soggy pizza.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Broiling at the end enhances crispiness but requires careful monitoring to avoid burning.
- Fresh basil and crushed red pepper add fresh flavor and a spicy kick, respectively, but are optional.
- Ensure the crust is thin and evenly spread for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American