If you’re craving a bold, fiery twist on a classic favorite, this Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine a crisp, golden crust topped with tender, spice-rubbed chicken, the tangy bite of pickled jalapenos, and gooey mozzarella that pulls with every slice. This pizza perfectly balances heat, zest, and comfort in every bite, making it an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress both your taste buds and any guests you invite over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe proves that simplicity can deliver powerhouse flavors. Each component plays a vital role, from the fluffy homemade dough to the spicy-sweet chicken and those perfectly tangy pickled jalapenos that add a lively pop of flavor and color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our dough, providing structure and softness.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for a tender crust.
- 1 teaspoon yeast: Essential for making the dough rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor throughout the dough.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a golden crust.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the crust with savory depth.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the garlic oil mixture perfectly.
- 1 chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces: The spicy star of the topping.
- 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile or preferred chili powder: Delivers bold heat and smoky notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional): Adds a smoky, mild spiciness for extra flavor complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Seasons the chicken perfectly.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Provides sharpness and enhances the spice blend.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the chicken to juicy perfection.
- 1 cup pickled jalapenos: The tangy, spicy topping that awakens every bite.
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy strings that balance the heat wonderfully.
- Optional garnishes (chopped cilantro, Crema, additional pickled jalapenos): For added freshness, creaminess, and spice on top.
How to Make Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by waking up the yeast in warm water until it dissolves nicely—this little magic moment is what gives your dough that perfect lift. Then stir in your flour and salt to form a rough dough. Knead it until it turns smooth and elastic, then cover it and let it rest for about 1 to 2 hours. This patient rise is key to a crust that’s both soft and chewy, setting the foundation for every delicious layer to come.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic-Infused Oil
While the dough is rising, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Press and mix everything well so the garlic releases its aromatic oils. This garlicky oil will be your secret weapon, providing a flavor-packed base that ensures every slice has a subtle, irresistible zest.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken
Grab your chopped chicken breast and toss it with the chile powder, optional chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and stir everything until well coated. Sauté the chicken on medium-high heat until it’s cooked through and beautifully seasoned. This juicy, spicy chicken will bring the perfect punch to your pizza.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pizza
Preheat your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough into two thin circles about 10 inches wide—thin crust equals crispy edges with a tender center. For an extra touch, pre-bake the crusts for 1 to 2 minutes; this keeps your pizza from getting soggy. Brush the crust generously with garlic oil, then scatter the spicy chicken, mozzarella cubes, and that zesty pickled jalapenos all over. Pop them in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection and the crust is golden brown.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro for a bright herbal contrast that cuts through the heat. Drizzle some cool Crema or sour cream to add a creamy touch that mellows out the spice. If you just can’t get enough heat, scatter a few extra pickled jalapenos right on top. These finishing touches elevate your pizza to a crave-worthy masterpiece.
Side Dishes
Pair your Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe with fresh, crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette or a light corn salad for a refreshing balance. A chilled glass of sparkling water or a fruity lemonade makes for the perfect duo to cool your palate down after every spicy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by cutting the pizza into small, shareable squares for a fun party platter, or serve alongside a small bowl of creamy guacamole for dipping. You could also turn this into a rustic flatbread experience by leaving the edges uneven and adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chili flakes on the crust. Whatever you choose, make it yours and enjoy the vibrant flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making the next day’s slice just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze baked pizza slices by placing parchment paper between them, then sealing in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will keep them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a spicy snack, just defrost in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
For the best reheated pizza, pop your slices into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This method revives the crispness of the crust while melting the cheese perfectly again, ensuring every bite tastes almost as fresh as the first.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and let it come to room temperature before rolling. This slow rise enhances flavor and makes for an even better crust.
What if I don’t have pickled jalapenos?
No worries! Fresh jalapenos work too—just slice them thin and sauté briefly to soften the heat a bit, or substitute with pickled banana peppers for a slightly milder tang.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella shines for melty texture, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a bit of crumbled queso fresco to add a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This pizza strikes a harmonious balance: it’s lively and spicy but not overwhelming. Adjust the amount of chile powder or jalapenos based on your heat preference to keep it just right.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your other ingredients don’t contain gluten. You might notice slight differences in texture, but the flavors will still be fantastic.
Final Thoughts
Making this Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe at home is like unlocking a whole new level of flavor adventure. The perfect combination of spice, tang, and melty goodness means every bite sings with excitement. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat, this pizza promises to bring joy and zest to your table. So grab your apron and dive in—you won’t regret it!
Print
Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 pizzas (serves 2)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
This Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza combines tender, seasoned chicken with tangy pickled jalapenos on a homemade garlic-infused crust topped with melted mozzarella. The perfect balance of heat and savory flavors makes for a delightful and quick pizza that is ready in just 40 minutes, ideal for a flavorful homemade meal for two.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic-Infused Oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided, 1 tbsp for dough, 1 tbsp for chicken)
Chicken Topping
- 1 chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile or preferred chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
- 1 cup pickled jalapenos
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Crema
- Additional pickled jalapenos
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon yeast and 3/4 cup warm water. Stir to dissolve the yeast completely. Add 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt, and mix until the dough starts to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare Garlic-Infused Oil: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil with 2 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of salt. Mash the garlic into the oil to release flavor and set aside to infuse while you prepare the toppings.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Toss chopped chicken breast with 1 tablespoon crushed New Mexican chile powder, 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (if using), 1/4 teaspoon salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the seasoned chicken until fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble and Bake the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough into two thin 10-inch circles on a lightly floured surface. Optionally, pre-bake the crusts for 1-2 minutes to prevent sogginess. Brush the crusts evenly with the garlic-infused oil. Evenly distribute cooked chicken pieces, cubed mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup pickled jalapenos on top of the crusts.
- Bake: Place the pizzas in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the crust edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove pizzas from the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, crema, and additional pickled jalapenos if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, flavorful homemade pizza.
Notes
- For extra crispy crust, pre-bake the pizza dough for 1-2 minutes before adding toppings.
- Adjust the amount of pickled jalapenos to control the heat level.
- Substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- If chipotle powder is not available, smoked paprika can be used for a smoky flavor without heat.
- Letting the dough rise longer will result in a lighter and airier crust.
- Leftover pizza can be reheated in a skillet to retain crispness.
