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Pesto Chicken Pizza

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A flavorful homemade pizza topped with basil pesto, tender chicken, melty mozzarella, Parmesan, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a crisp golden crust.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pizza dough
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while it heats.
  2. Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a medium round or rectangle and place it on a floured pizza peel or a parchment-lined baking tray.
  3. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  4. Top with the cooked chicken, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
  5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the pizza. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Store-bought pesto works well and saves time.
  • Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for quick preparation.
  • Avoid using too much pesto or too many wet toppings to keep the crust from getting soggy.
  • Naan, flatbread, or pre-baked crust can be used instead of traditional pizza dough.
  • Leftover slices can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/pesto-chicken-pizza/