Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza

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Are you craving a pizza that’s a departure from the traditional tomato sauce-based pies? Look no further than this tantalizing Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza recipe. With its creamy white sauce infused with roasted garlic, tender chicken breast, and a medley of savory toppings, this pizza is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering delight!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound pizza dough
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 8 cloves roasted garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup skim milk
  • ¼ cup half and half
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • ¼ cup red onion, diced
  • ¾ cup Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat or greasing it and sprinkling with cornmeal.
  2. Make the White Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced roasted garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1 minute until well blended. Slowly whisk in the skim milk and half and half. Mix in the black pepper. Cook the sauce for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a roughly 12-inch circle on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Spread the Sauce: Spread the white sauce over the dough evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
  5. Add Toppings: Top the sauce with cooked and shredded chicken, diced red onion, and Mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 17 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme, dried oregano, and fresh parsley.
  8. Serve: Cut the pizza into slices and serve immediately. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Fresh Garnishes: Before serving, sprinkle additional fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
  2. Accompaniments: Pair your Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
  3. Customization: Feel free to customize your pizza with additional toppings such as sliced mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Presentation: Serve the pizza on a large cutting board or pizza stone to enhance its rustic charm, and use a pizza cutter to slice it into neat, even portions.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the pizza cool completely before refrigerating.
  2. Reheating: To enjoy leftover pizza, simply reheat individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until heated to your liking.
  3. Freezing: If you want to freeze the pizza for future enjoyment, wrap individual slices or the entire pizza tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 1-2 months.
  4. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen pizza, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat it following the same instructions for reheating leftover pizza.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add sliced cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and sliced mushrooms as toppings. You can also incorporate roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added flavor and texture.
  2. Spicy Twist: Add a kick of heat by drizzling sriracha sauce or scattering sliced jalapeños over the pizza before baking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or chili powder into the white sauce for an extra spicy kick.
  3. Mediterranean Flair: Give your pizza a Mediterranean twist by adding ingredients like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
  4. BBQ Chicken Variation: Substitute the white sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a BBQ Chicken Pizza. Top the pizza with cooked and shredded barbecue chicken, sliced red onions, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for a delicious barbecue-inspired treat.
  5. Pesto Paradise: Replace the white sauce with pesto sauce for a vibrant and flavorful twist. Top the pizza with sliced cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and grilled artichoke hearts. Finish it off with a sprinkle of pine nuts and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant and delicious pesto pizza.
  6. Meat Lover’s Delight: If you’re a fan of meat, load up your pizza with additional proteins such as crispy bacon, sliced pepperoni, and Italian sausage. You can also add diced ham or prosciutto for a decadent and satisfying Meat Lover’s Pizza experience.
  7. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower crust as a base to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the sauce and toppings, are gluten-free as well to accommodate dietary restrictions.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
    • Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for any necessary prepping or rising.
  2. Is there a substitute for roasted garlic if I don’t have any on hand?
    • Yes, you can use minced fresh garlic in place of roasted garlic. However, roasted garlic provides a milder and sweeter flavor, so adjust the quantity to your taste.
  3. Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the white sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove and stir until smooth before spreading it on the pizza dough.
  4. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Mozzarella?
    • Certainly! While Mozzarella cheese lends a classic flavor and gooey texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Gouda, or fontina for a unique twist.
  5. How can I make the pizza dough from scratch?
    • Making pizza dough from scratch is simple and requires basic ingredients like flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil. There are many recipes available online, or you can try your hand at traditional or whole wheat pizza dough for added flavor and nutrition.
  6. Can I freeze the pizza dough for later use?
    • Yes, you can freeze pizza dough for up to 1-2 months. Divide the dough into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
  7. How can I prevent the pizza crust from becoming soggy?
    • To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to preheat your oven and baking sheet before placing the pizza on it. Additionally, avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet toppings and ensure that the sauce is spread evenly to create a barrier between the crust and toppings.

This Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza is a delightful departure from the ordinary. With its creamy white sauce, savory chicken, and aromatic herbs, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or simply craving a cozy night in, this pizza is the perfect choice. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by its deliciousness!