If you are craving something bold, flavorful, and downright addictive, this Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy, golden crust loaded with spicy buffalo chicken, creamy melted mozzarella, and a touch of fresh heat from jalapeños all coming together in one irresistible pie. This pizza brings together the tangy, spicy notes of buffalo sauce with the comforting satisfaction of a homemade pizza, creating an unforgettable meal that will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you — each component is simple but plays a crucial role in building a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Every ingredient contributes something special, from the tender chicken cubes soaked in buffalo sauce to the fresh mozzarella that melts into gooey deliciousness.
- 18-20 ounces pizza dough: Choose store-bought or homemade dough for a crispy, chewy crust base.
- 1 (8 oz) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes: Fully cooked chicken adds protein and soaks up the spicy buffalo sauce wonderfully.
- 6-7 slices fresh mozzarella (about 8 oz): Melts beautifully and creates that classic pizza gooey stretch.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: The star of the show, adding that spicy, tangy zing that gives the pizza its personality.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a touch of sweetness and a slight crunch to balance the spice.
- Fresh sliced jalapeños (optional): Perfect for anyone who loves an extra kick of heat.
- 1/3 cup flour (for crust): Use for dusting to prevent sticking and ensure a nice crust texture.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor subtly but effectively.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving): A creamy cooling dip that pairs perfectly with spicy buffalo flavors.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to a blazing 500°F (260°C), and make sure to place a pizza stone in the oven for at least an hour. This step is crucial because it ensures your pizza cooks evenly and the crust crisps up perfectly, giving you that pizzeria-quality texture right at home.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil, then add your bite-sized chicken cubes. Sauté them until they are cooked through and golden on the edges, which adds a nice depth of flavor and texture. Once cooked, remove from heat and toss with 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce to coat them evenly, marrying the spicy flavor beautifully with the tender chicken.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll your dough into a 12-inch circle — think of it as your pizza canvas. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the surface of the dough; this small seasoning boost enhances the crust’s taste without overpowering it. Then lightly dust a pizza peel with flour to prevent sticking, and transfer the dough onto it for easy moving later.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread buffalo sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, stopping about half an inch from the edge to allow room for the crust to puff. Next, scatter your cooked buffalo chicken over the sauce, then layer slices of fresh mozzarella. Add thinly sliced red onions for sweetness and top with fresh jalapeño slices for that extra fiery punch, if you like your pizza extra spicy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully slide your assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust has turned golden brown and the cheese bubbles and melts spectacularly. This high-heat baking produces a delightful blend of crispy and tender textures that make this dish stand out.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes — this rest time helps the cheese set slightly, making slicing easier and less messy. Serve your masterpiece alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing, offering a creamy counterbalance to the fiery buffalo elements on the pizza.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top after baking for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or a dot of ranch dressing on each slice can add a fun, customized flair for each hungry guest.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Try classic celery sticks and carrot sticks to stay true to buffalo chicken tradition. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy pizza.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual get-together, consider cutting your pizza into smaller square “party” slices or even bite-sized pizza rolls using the same toppings for easy finger food. Arranging slices on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dips encourages sharing and adds a cozy vibe to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Buffalo Chicken Pizza tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to keep the crust from drying out. Stored properly, the pizza will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its incredible flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza by wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap first, then sealing them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. This method locks in freshness and prevents freezer burn. Frozen pizza slices are best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
To bring your Buffalo Chicken Pizza back to life, reheat slices in a hot skillet on medium heat using a lid to warm the toppings and melt the cheese evenly while keeping the crust crisp. Alternatively, bake in a 375°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time, and it also adds extra flavor. Just shred or cube the chicken and toss it with buffalo sauce before adding it to your pizza.
Is there a vegetarian version of Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets or chickpeas roasted with buffalo sauce for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still packs a spicy punch.
Can I make this pizza on a regular baking sheet instead of a pizza stone?
You can, but your crust won’t get quite as crispy. To improve results, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the pizza on it to mimic the effect of a pizza stone.
What type of buffalo sauce works best?
Choose your favorite buffalo sauce, whether mild, medium, or hot, depending on your heat preference. Classic vinegary sauces pair perfectly with the creamy cheese and onions on this pizza.
Can I prepare this pizza in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pizza up to the point before baking and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. When ready to eat, just pop it into a hot oven to bake fresh and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that anyone can make at home. Whether for a casual family dinner or a fun party snack, it’s guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to get a slice. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into this spicy, cheesy, crunchy delight – your taste buds will thank you!
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Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Pizza offers a fiery twist on the classic favorite by combining crispy, buffalo-sauced chicken with melted fresh mozzarella, spicy jalapeños, and tangy red onions on a golden, homemade-style crust. This easy-to-make pizza is perfect for game day or a spicy weeknight dinner, served with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing for the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Dough and Crust
- 18–20 ounces pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/3 cup flour (for crust)
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping
- 1 (8 oz) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes (fully cooked)
- 6–7 slices fresh mozzarella (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh sliced jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
For Serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and pizza stone: Set your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza stone inside. Allow the stone to preheat for at least 1 hour to ensure a crispy crust.
- Cook and sauce the chicken: Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the chicken cubes until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and toss with 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Prepare the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Sprinkle a small pinch of salt evenly over the dough to enhance flavor.
- Transfer dough to pizza peel: Dust a pizza peel with flour to prevent sticking, then carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the peel, ready for topping and baking.
- Assemble the pizza: Spread the remaining buffalo sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the edges for the crust. Distribute the buffalo chicken pieces evenly over the sauce, then layer with slices of fresh mozzarella and thinly sliced red onions. Add sliced jalapeños on top if you prefer extra heat.
- Bake the pizza: Slide the assembled pizza carefully onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, balancing out the spicy flavors.
Notes
- Using a pizza stone preheated for at least an hour ensures a crispier crust.
- If you like extra spice, add fresh jalapeños or increase the buffalo sauce quantity.
- Fully cooking the chicken beforehand is important for safety and texture.
- Leftover pizza can be reheated in a hot oven or skillet to preserve crispiness.
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing helps balance the heat and adds creaminess.
