Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe
If you love fiery flavors and crave a little adventure on pizza night, the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a crisp, golden crust loaded with juicy shredded chicken, tangy jalapeños, and a bubbling, cheesy blanket of mozzarella and pepper jack. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of heat, richness, and freshness—with a crunchy finish thanks to a touch of garlic and olive oil. This pizza packs so much personality; it’ll easily steal the show at dinner, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something outrageously good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is the kind of recipe that makes magic out of a handful of superstars. Every ingredient on the list brings its own pop of flavor, color, or kick to the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe, so don’t skip any—you’ll notice the difference!
- Pizza dough: The essential base—use store-bought for speed or homemade for that extra “ta-da!”
- Pizza sauce: A tangy, tomatoey layer ties all the ingredients together.
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded or chopped, it soaks up spices and brings satisfying protein.
- Pickled jalapeño slices: Don’t be shy—these bring zesty heat and tang you won’t find with fresh chilies.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for an irresistible stretch and ooze.
- Shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds creamy texture and an extra kick, perfect for spice lovers.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch here tickles your taste buds and wakes up all the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Subtle garlicky aroma in every bite—a must for pizza night.
- Olive oil: Brushed on the crust, it helps everything sizzle and brown to perfection.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional): Sprinkled on at the end, they brighten up each slice.
- Cornmeal or flour: Dust your surface for rolling out dough and easy transfer—no sticking or tearing!
How to Make Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven (and Stone) Hot
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). Slide in your pizza stone or baking sheet, letting it heat along with the oven. This step is your secret weapon for an awesomely crisp crust—that sizzle when the dough hits the stone is pure pizza magic!
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Dust your counter with a little cornmeal or flour, and roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch round. You don’t need to be a pro—just aim for an even thickness and try to keep it circle-ish. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined pizza peel or a flat baking tray, which will help you smoothly slide it onto the hot stone later.
Step 3: Brush and Season the Crust
Lightly brush the edge of the dough with olive oil and give it a generous sprinkle of garlic powder. This not only turns your crust golden brown but infuses those edge bites with savory garlic flavor. Trust me, you’ll want every last bite of this crust.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a thin border for the crust. Next, scatter your shredded or chopped chicken breast over the sauce. Layer on the pickled jalapeño slices (as many as your spice tolerance allows!), and finish with a big, glorious handful of mozzarella and pepper jack cheeses. Sprinkle everything with crushed red pepper flakes for that signature kick the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe promises.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Slide your pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden-brown crust and melted, gently browned cheese. Peek through the oven door and watch your pizza dream come to life—those bubbling, cheesy patches are what you want!
Step 6: Garnish and Slice
Once your pizza is out of the oven and cooled for a minute or two, shower it with a handful of fresh cilantro or green onions if you like. Slice it up and get ready for the most exciting pizza night you’ve had in ages.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
The spicy, savory flavors here love a pop of freshness! Sprinkle on chopped cilantro or green onions for color and a burst of herby flavor. If you want to take it over the top, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a zigzag of creamy garlic ranch is absolutely encouraged.
Side Dishes
The Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe really shines next to simple sides that cool things down. Think crisp romaine salads with ranch or blue cheese dressing, cool cucumber-tomato salads, or a creamy coleslaw for some crunch and relief from the heat.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pizza into a showstopper by serving slices on a wooden board, topped with extra jalapeños or a swirl of sour cream. Or, slice the pizza into small squares and serve as spicy appetizers at your next gathering—you’ll have everyone raving about your signature pie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe are a true treat. Let your pizza cool completely, then wrap slices in foil or airtight containers. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days, making for quick lunches or late-night snacks.
Freezing
If you want to make pizza night even easier, freeze extra slices! Lay cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months—just pull out a slice or two when cravings hit.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat slices in a 400°F (205°C) oven for 5–8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly again and the crust crisps up. Avoid the microwave unless you’re in a hurry, as it tends to make the crust a bit soft. A skillet on medium heat with a lid works, too!
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken thighs, or even leftover roast chicken all work beautifully in the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe. Just shred or chop it up for easy topping.
How spicy is this pizza?
This pizza has just the right kick, thanks to pickled jalapeños and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. If you love mega heat, add extra jalapeños or a spicy hot sauce drizzle. Want it milder? Simply use fewer jalapeños and go easy on the red pepper flakes.
Can I make the crust thinner or thicker?
Definitely! Roll your dough thinner if you want a super crisp, cracker-like base, or leave it thicker for a chewy, airy edge. Just keep an eye on your baking time—a thin crust cooks quickly, while a thick crust may need a minute or two more.
What’s the best cheese alternative if I don’t have pepper jack?
If pepper jack isn’t handy, swap in Monterey Jack for creamy meltiness with less heat, or try a sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese punch. Either way, the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe will be totally delicious.
Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
It’s an easy swap—omit the chicken and load up with extra cheese, roasted veggies like bell peppers and onions, or even meatless chicken strips. The combination of spicy jalapeños and gooey cheese will keep everyone happy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a pizza that stands out and brings a little heat to the table, you’ll fall in love with the Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—the kind of dish you’ll want to share (but secretly hope there’s some left for later). Give it a try and watch your pizza game reach delicious new heights!
Print
Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 2–4) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Spice up your pizza night with this delicious Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeño Pizza recipe! A perfect combination of zesty flavors and gooey cheese on a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Pizza Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices (drained)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round on a floured surface. Transfer to a parchment-lined pizza peel or baking tray.
- Add Toppings: Brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Spread pizza sauce, then add chicken, jalapeños, cheeses, and red pepper flakes.
- Bake the Pizza: Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with cilantro or green onions, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce or add more red pepper flakes.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Try a garlic ranch drizzle for a creamy contrast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pizza
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
