This is the only pizza I make now. We love it! Keeping the spices simple helps the flavor of the chicken and vegetables to come through. The pizza tastes great and is good for you, too.

Chicken Pesto Pizza is a delicious and satisfying pizza variation that combines the flavors of tender chicken, aromatic pesto, and a medley of colorful vegetables. This pizza offers a delightful balance of savory and fresh ingredients, making it a popular choice for pizza lovers.

Pizza has a rich history dating back to ancient times, originating from the flatbreads consumed in various cultures. However, the modern pizza as we know it today is often associated with Naples, Italy. Pizza Margherita, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, is one of the most iconic traditional Italian pizzas.

Chicken Pesto Pizza, while not a traditional Italian pizza, is a contemporary variation that reflects the evolution of pizza recipes. The addition of chicken and pesto showcases the creative and diverse flavors that have been incorporated into pizza-making.

PREP: 35 MIN. + RISING

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 8 SLICES

INGREDIENTS

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
• 2¾ cups bread flour, divided
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt, divided
• ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced
• ½ small green, sweet red, and yellow peppers, julienned
• ½ cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• 3 tablespoons prepared pesto
• 1½ cups (6 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Beat in 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon oil, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the remaining flour and beat until the mixture is well combined.
2. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it becomes smooth and elastic, usually taking about 6-8 minutes. Place the dough in a bowl coated with cooking spray, turning it once to coat the top. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 hour.
3. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken, onion, peppers, and mushrooms in the remaining oil until the chicken is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
4. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 15-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 14-inch pizza pan, building up the edges slightly. Spread pesto evenly on the dough. Top it with the cooked chicken mixture and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with pepper and the remaining salt.
5. Bake the pizza at 400° for 18-20 minutes or until the crust and cheese are lightly browned.

Enjoy the flavorful combination of chicken, pesto, and vegetables on a crispy pizza crust. This Chicken Pesto Pizza is a delightful choice for pizza enthusiasts looking to explore unique and delicious flavor profiles.