Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
If you’re looking to transform your next pizza night, Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza is the answer. This vibrant pie combines the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic with juicy chicken, a trio of melty cheeses, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs that fill every bite with garden-fresh flavor. The golden, crispy crust acts as the perfect canvas for all these savory toppings, making it a serious crowd-pleaser. Whether you use homemade or store-bought dough, this recipe is both comforting and a little bit fancy, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long ingredient list to make incredible pizza—just a handful of essentials, each bringing something unique. Every component in this Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza adds depth, from the velvety roasted garlic to the aromatic herbs and gooey cheese. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips for getting the best results!
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, the base sets the stage for every great pizza—just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy stretching.
- Olive oil: Drizzling this over the garlic before roasting adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps everything caramelize beautifully.
- Garlic: Roasting an entire head gives you a sweet, mellow paste that becomes the star of your pizza “sauce.”
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded or diced, this adds protein and a satisfying bite—rotisserie chicken works especially well if you’re short on time.
- Mozzarella cheese: The classic choice for stretch and melt—use whole milk mozzarella if you can for extra creaminess.
- Provolone cheese: Brings a bit of sharpness and depth to the cheese blend, making every slice a little more interesting.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the herbs and garlic.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced, it delivers a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and scattered, this brightens up the finished pizza with fresh, grassy notes.
- Fresh thyme leaves: These tiny leaves pack a punch of earthy, lemony flavor.
- Fresh rosemary: Just a tablespoon, finely chopped, gives your pizza that unmistakable savory depth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer and bringing out all the flavors.
- Cornmeal or flour: For dusting your surface and making sure that golden crust doesn’t stick when it’s time to bake.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and placing a pizza stone or baking sheet inside. Slice the top off a head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it tightly in foil. Roast for 30–35 minutes, until the cloves are soft, golden, and fragrant. This step is what gives Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza its signature mellow, sweet garlic base—totally worth the wait.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough
While your garlic is roasting, dust your work surface with flour or cornmeal and stretch or roll out your pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness. Letting the dough rest at room temperature makes it much easier to handle and helps create those irresistible, bubbly edges.
Step 3: Make the Roasted Garlic Paste
Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted cloves into a small bowl and mash them into a smooth paste. This roasted garlic paste will be your “sauce”—it spreads easily, infuses every bite with flavor, and is lighter than traditional tomato bases, letting the chicken and herbs shine.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread the roasted garlic paste evenly over the stretched pizza dough, reaching almost to the edges. Next, sprinkle the mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses in an even layer. Top with the cooked chicken and thinly sliced red onion. Scatter the parsley, thyme, and rosemary over everything, then finish with a pinch of salt and pepper. Each layer is vital for building the amazing balance of flavors in Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing—this helps the flavors settle and keeps everything perfectly gooey.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil just before serving can really elevate your Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza. For a little extra flair, try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a swirl of balsamic glaze for sweet-tangy contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a cozy, complete meal. Garlic knots or a bowl of marinated olives also make excellent companions, balancing the pizza’s richness with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the pizza into small squares and serve as party bites or appetizers. You can also offer a “pizza bar” experience with small cups of extra herbs, chili flakes, or dipping sauces so everyone can customize their own slice of Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge, making this Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pizza cool completely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months—perfect for those busy nights when only homemade pizza will do.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat leftover pizza in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a hot skillet works great for reviving that crispy bottom, while the microwave is best for a quick, softer bite.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just shred or dice it and scatter over your pizza for an easy, delicious topping.
Can I make this pizza with gluten-free dough?
Yes, a gluten-free pizza dough works beautifully in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for best results, and keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free crusts can brown a bit faster.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
No worries! Substitute dried herbs—just use about one-third the amount called for in the recipe. The flavor will still be wonderful, just a little more concentrated.
How can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or extra cheese. The roasted garlic and herbs will still make it incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Is it possible to grill this pizza instead of baking?
Yes! Grilling gives the crust a smoky char and delicious crispiness. Preheat your grill, assemble the pizza on a grill-safe pan or directly on the grates, and cook with the lid closed for 8–12 minutes, checking frequently.
Final Thoughts
If you love bold flavors and easy comfort food, you owe it to yourself to try Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza. Every bite is a warm, cheesy, herb-filled hug—perfect for sharing with friends, family, or just enjoying all to yourself. Give it a go and watch it become your new go-to homemade pizza!
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Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 pizza (serves 2–4) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza combines the rich, mellow flavors of roasted garlic with tender chicken and a blend of fresh herbs on a crispy homemade or store-bought pizza crust. Topped with mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses, this savory pizza is perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough and Base
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Roasted Garlic
- 1 head of garlic
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat. Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, and roast for 30 to 35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden.
- Prepare the Dough: While the garlic roasts, stretch or roll out your pizza dough on a surface dusted with either cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking. Shape it to your desired size and thickness.
- Make Roasted Garlic Paste: Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the cloves out into a small bowl and mash them into a smooth paste with a fork.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread the roasted garlic paste evenly over the pizza dough as a flavorful base sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the surface.
- Add Toppings and Herbs: Scatter the shredded or diced cooked chicken breast and thinly sliced red onions over the cheese layer. Then evenly distribute the fresh parsley, thyme leaves, and chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Transfer the assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to set. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- For convenience, substitute cooked chicken breast with rotisserie chicken.
- To enhance flavor, drizzle a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze over the pizza just before serving.
- If fresh herbs are not available, dried herbs can be used at approximately one-third the quantity.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 pizza)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
