Description
This Chicken Crust Pizza is a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, using ground chicken as the base for the crust. Packed with flavorful seasonings and topped with classic pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, bell peppers, and jalapeños, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat.
Ingredients
Chicken Crust
- 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 and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a round pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix crust ingredients: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the crust: Spread the chicken mixture into a thin, even circle about 10 to 12 inches in diameter on the prepared pan. Use damp hands or a spatula to smooth the edges for a neat crust.
- Bake the crust: Place the pizza crust in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes until it is cooked through and golden brown around the edges. If you notice moisture pooling on the surface, carefully blot it with a paper towel as the chicken releases natural juices.
- Add toppings and bake: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, then add the diced green bell pepper and jalapeños. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Optionally, broil for the last 2 minutes to achieve extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps the pizza set for easier slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and crushed red pepper if desired. Slice and enjoy your chicken crust pizza!
Notes
- Blotting the crust after the initial bake removes excess moisture and helps keep the crust firm and less soggy.
- Broiling at the end enhances crispiness but watch carefully to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity according to your preferred spice level or substitute with milder peppers if desired.
- This recipe is a great low-carb, gluten-free pizza option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American