Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza Recipe

Imagine biting into a slice of Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza, where the crispy golden crust meets tender, spicy chicken coated in a rich, garlicky chili sauce, all crowned with molten cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish is a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and textures that will have you craving one more slice after another. The Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza brings together heat, sweetness, and umami in perfect harmony, transforming any pizza night into a memorable feast full of character and excitement.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza is easier than you might think, thanks to straightforward ingredients that each add a unique twist to the final flavor. From the dough’s tender chew to the spicy-sweet chicken topping, each component plays a starring role in making this pizza truly unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of your pizza dough for a soft yet crispy crust.
• Sugar: Just a touch to activate the yeast and give the dough a subtle sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough and toppings.
• Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your dough rise and become airy.
• Warm water: Helps to activate the yeast and bind the dough ingredients.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and a hint of richness to both dough and chicken.
• Boneless chicken breasts: The protein star—tender, juicy, and perfect for absorbing that chili garlic kick.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that pungent, aromatic base in the chicken marinade.
• Red chilies: Chopped finely to bring the heat that defines this pizza.
• Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and a slight saltiness that balances the spice.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness that tempers the chili, creating harmony.
• Rice vinegar: Introduces brightness to cut through the richness.
• Sesame oil: Just a splash for that nutty, toasted aroma.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional extra fire for those who dare.
• Chili garlic sauce: The heart of the topping, providing bold flavor and spice.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves.
• Provolone cheese: Adds a smoky note if you want to play with flavor complexity.
• Fresh cilantro: Brightens the finished pizza with herbal freshness.
• Green onions: Crisp and slightly pungent, perfect for garnish.
• Sesame seeds: Optional sprinkle for crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy—this means your yeast is alive and kicking! In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then slowly add the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

While the dough is rising, toss the chicken cubes in olive oil, minced garlic, chopped red chilies, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes so it soaks up all those vibrant and spicy flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chili Garlic Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to spread the pieces out so they sear nicely instead of steaming. Set aside once done.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the chili garlic sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cooked chili garlic chicken on top. Generously layer mozzarella and provolone cheese over everything for that irresistible cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake and Garnish

Bake your Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza in the hot oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds on top for color, flavor, and crunch. Then slice it up and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza

Garnishes

The fresh cilantro and green onions sprinkled over your Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza add a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness. Sesame seeds not only add a subtle crunch but also create a beautiful contrast against the melty cheese and saucy chicken, making every bite more interesting and colorful.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple side options like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cleanse the palate or a crunchy slaw with a hint of spice that complements the chili garlic flavors. You could also serve a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables to keep the meal hearty and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting the Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza into smaller squares and serving it as party finger food with toothpicks. Another idea is to turn it into a gourmet flatbread by adding dollops of sour cream or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing just before serving. These little touches elevate the experience and keep your guests delighted and guessing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store slices in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to maintain freshness and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked pizza slices individually by wrapping them in parchment paper and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, each slice can be reheated quickly without sacrificing too much texture or flavor. Frozen pizza can last up to 2 months and is perfect for a quick snack whenever hunger strikes.

Reheating

To bring your Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza back to life, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet, or use a skillet on medium heat to crisp up the crust while melting the cheese again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that satisfying crunch intact.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-made dough works perfectly and can save you some time without compromising on taste.

How spicy is the Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza?

The pizza carries a lively but manageable heat level, which you can adjust by altering the amount of red chilies and red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

Is this pizza suitable for kids?

It depends on their tolerance for spice. You can reduce or omit the chilies and pepper flakes to make a milder version that children will enjoy.

What can I substitute if I can’t find provolone cheese?

Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well as substitutes, providing a rich, melty texture and a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.

Can this pizza be made gluten-free?

Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pizza crust option and verify that all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free to enjoy this dish safely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making and enjoying a homemade Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza that’s bursting with flavor and personality. This recipe invites you to shake up your pizza routine with bold spices and fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, give this pizza a try—you might just find a new favorite that everyone will ask you to make again.

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