Description
Chicken Pizza with Herbs and Basil
Ingredients:
For the pizza dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp instant yeast
2 tbsp olive oil
¾ cup warm water
For the sauce:
1 cup tomato sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the toppings:
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Olive oil for drizzling
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Instructions:
1. Prepare the dough:
In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Add olive oil and warm water, and knead until a smooth dough forms.
Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the sauce:
Heat olive oil in a skillet, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the tomato sauce, oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the pizza:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and place it on a greased baking tray.
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, then add the grilled chicken slices.
Top with fresh basil, dried thyme, and drizzle a little olive oil.
4. Bake:
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure your water for the dough is between 105-115°F; too hot will kill the yeast. Knead the dough for a full 8-10 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth. For the best rise, place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free spot. While the dough rises, grill your chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper, then slice thinly. When assembling, spread sauce leaving a ½-inch border for the crust. Pre-bake the naked dough for 3 minutes before adding toppings to ensure a crisp, non-soggy base.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and parmesan shavings. For a casual gathering, cut into small squares for easy appetizer portions. A chilled, crisp lager or a glass of Chianti complements the herby flavors perfectly. Leftovers reheat best in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid to melt the cheese again without burning the crust.
How-to Summary
In summary: 1) Mix and knead dough ingredients, then let rise for 1 hour. 2) Sauté garlic, add tomato sauce and herbs, then simmer for 5 minutes. 3) Roll out dough, pre-bake for 3 minutes, then spread sauce, cheese, chicken, and herbs. 4) Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 12-15 minutes until golden. 5) Slice and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought dough or a pre-made crust?
Absolutely. For a quick version, a high-quality store-bought dough or flatbread works. Adjust baking time as per package instructions.
How can I make this pizza crispier?
Use a pizza stone or steel preheated in the oven for an hour. The intense heat creates a superior, crispy crust.
What are good substitutes for chicken?
Shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or sliced Italian sausage are excellent alternatives.
Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes. The dough can refrigerate for up to 24 hours for better flavor. Sauce and grilled chicken can be made 2 days in advance.
Why did my dough not rise?
Likely causes are expired/dead yeast, water that was too hot, or a cold proofing environment. Always check yeast freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold water for the dough, which inhibits yeast activation.
- Overloading the pizza with sauce and toppings, leading to a soggy center.
- Not preheating the oven fully, resulting in a pale, undercooked crust.
- Using fresh mozzarella without patting it dry, which releases too much water.
- Slicing the pizza immediately after baking, which causes the cheese to slide off. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes.
Conclusion
Mastering this Chicken Pizza with Herbs and Basil is about balancing simple, fresh ingredients with proper technique. The combination of a homemade herbed sauce, tender grilled chicken, and aromatic basil creates a gourmet experience far beyond takeout. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve a restaurant-quality pizza that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!