There’s something universally comforting about pizza – from the savory aroma of the crust to the satisfying melt of the cheese. But what if you could take that comforting classic and give it a spicy, tangy twist? That’s where buffalo chicken pizza comes in. If you love buffalo wings, you’re in for a treat. The combination of tender chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and a crispy crust makes for a pizza that is not only flavorful but downright addictive.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this pizza from scratch, with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and serving ideas that will elevate your pizza game. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the perfect buffalo chicken pizza recipe!
What Is Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
Buffalo chicken pizza is a creative variation of traditional pizza that combines two American favorites: pizza and buffalo chicken wings. The dish features a pizza crust topped with cooked, seasoned chicken that’s coated in a zesty buffalo sauce. It’s then layered with mozzarella cheese, and after baking, is often finished with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce, combined with the creamy texture of the dressing and the gooey cheese, makes this pizza a delicious fusion of flavors.
Key Characteristics:
- Buffalo Sauce: The signature tangy, spicy flavor of the buffalo sauce, which is typically made with hot sauce and butter, is the defining feature of this pizza.
- Shredded Chicken: Tender, cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce adds a rich, flavorful topping.
- Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the most common cheese used, but you can experiment with other varieties like cheddar or blue cheese for an even bolder flavor.
- Crust: The crust can vary from classic pizza dough to thin-crust or even cauliflower crust for a low-carb version.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe
1. Bold and Flavorful
Buffalo chicken pizza packs a punch with its spicy, tangy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants to try something new with their pizza.
2. Easy to Make
Making buffalo chicken pizza from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few basic ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality pizza right at home.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about buffalo chicken pizza is how versatile it is. You can adjust the heat by using more or less buffalo sauce or switch up the toppings. Add extra vegetables or switch to a different cheese—there are endless ways to make it your own.
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Here’s what you’ll need to make your buffalo chicken pizza:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | 1 pizza (store-bought or homemade) | Choose your preferred dough type |
| Chicken Breast (cooked) | 2 cups (shredded) | Grilled or rotisserie chicken works well |
| Buffalo Sauce | ½ cup | Adjust the spiciness to taste |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 ½ cups | Freshly shredded for best melt |
| Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing | ¼ cup | For drizzling on top after baking |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For brushing the crust |
| Celery (optional) | 1 stalk (diced) | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Fresh Parsley (optional) | 1 tbsp | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Pizza
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high heat ensures that your pizza will come out with a crispy, golden crust and perfectly melted cheese.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough
- Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. You can use store-bought dough or make your own. If you’re using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions for best results.
- Once rolled out, brush the edges of the dough with olive oil. This helps the crust become crisp and golden as it bakes.
3. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
- Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This can be grilled chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or any cooked chicken you prefer.
- Toss the chicken with buffalo sauce until it’s evenly coated. You can adjust the amount of sauce based on your preferred spice level.
4. Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a thin layer of buffalo sauce over the pizza dough. This adds extra flavor and moisture to the crust.
- Evenly distribute the buffalo chicken over the pizza, making sure the toppings are spread out well.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken. The cheese will melt into the chicken and buffalo sauce, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
5. Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Finish and Serve
- Once your pizza is out of the oven, drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top for that creamy, tangy finish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or diced celery for added texture and flavor.
- Slice and enjoy your homemade buffalo chicken pizza!
Tips for Perfecting Buffalo Chicken Pizza
1. Adjust the Heat
- If you love extra heat, feel free to add more buffalo sauce or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you want a milder version, mix the buffalo sauce with some ranch dressing before tossing the chicken.
2. Try Different Cheeses
- While mozzarella is the go-to choice, you can add other cheeses for more depth. Try mixing in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little crumbled blue cheese for an extra kick.
3. Add More Veggies
- If you like your pizza with a bit of crunch, consider adding vegetables like red onions, bell peppers, or even spinach. These veggies balance out the richness of the buffalo chicken.
4. Use a Pizza Stone for Better Results
- If you have one, use a pizza stone. Preheat the stone in the oven to get a crispier, more evenly cooked crust.
5. Perfect the Crust
- If you want to make your pizza extra crispy, bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. This prevents the dough from getting soggy from the sauce and chicken.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
While buffalo chicken pizza is a meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides and beverages can take your dinner to the next level. Here are some ideas:
1. Side Salad
- A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the buffalo sauce and cheese. Consider adding ingredients like arugula, mixed greens, or even some crunchy croutons.
2. Beverages
- To balance out the heat of the buffalo sauce, pair your pizza with a cold beverage. Soda, iced tea, or light beer work particularly well. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a lemonade or sparkling water can offer a nice contrast to the spiciness.
3. Dips
- If you like extra creaminess, serve your buffalo chicken pizza with additional ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also serve some creamy garlic sauce or a yogurt-based dip to further balance the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Can I make buffalo chicken pizza in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken and pizza dough ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and then assemble the pizza just before baking.
Can I make buffalo chicken pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular pizza dough for a gluten-free crust, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free buffalo chicken pizza that’s just as tasty.
How do I store leftover buffalo chicken pizza?
Store any leftover buffalo chicken pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in a hot oven or on a skillet to get the crust crispy again.
Can I make buffalo chicken pizza without ranch or blue cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of ranch or blue cheese, you can skip the drizzle or use a different creamy sauce, such as garlic sauce or even a simple yogurt-based dressing.
Should I cook chicken before putting on pizza?
Yes, it’s essential to cook the chicken before adding it to your pizza. Raw chicken could result in uneven cooking, and it may not reach the safe temperature required for consumption. To ensure the chicken is tender and flavorful, you can either grill, bake, or sauté it before shredding it and tossing it with buffalo sauce. This way, it’s perfectly cooked and ready to melt into your pizza.
Why is buffalo chicken pizza so good?
Buffalo chicken pizza combines the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy comfort of pizza with the bold, spicy kick of buffalo wings. The balance of flavors—spicy buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and tender chicken—makes it a crowd-pleaser. The creamy ranch or blue cheese drizzle adds a cooling contrast, enhancing the overall experience. The fusion of these elements creates a pizza that’s both satisfying and exciting, making it irresistible for spice lovers.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken pizza offers the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors, all layered on a crispy pizza crust. It’s a satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table reaching for another slice. Whether you’re a fan of spicy buffalo wings or simply looking for a new way to enjoy pizza, this recipe is sure to impress. Easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and packed with flavor, buffalo chicken pizza is perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try? Get your ingredients ready, and start baking the ultimate buffalo chicken pizza today!