Chicken Enchilada Pizza
Imagine the perfect fusion of flavors: the comforting familiarity of pizza meets the spicy, savory goodness of chicken enchiladas. This Chicken Enchilada Pizza is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. With a crispy homemade crust, zesty enchilada sauce, and all your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual dinner, or simply craving something unique, this recipe will have you covered.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Chicken Enchilada Pizza is a delightful twist on classic pizza, featuring:
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of enchilada flavors and pizza toppings creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Customizable: You can tailor the toppings to your liking, whether you prefer extra cheese, veggies, or spicy jalapeños.
- Quick and Simple: The recipe is straightforward and perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Feeds a Crowd: This pizza is hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table.
What Goes In
To make this Chicken Enchilada Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock or water
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup rotisserie or shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded (optional)
- 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup black olives
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Jalapeños (to taste)
Must-Have Equipment
To make this Chicken Enchilada Pizza, you’ll want to have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your dough ingredients.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: For cooking the pizza evenly.
- Whisk: For mixing the enchilada sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Oven: To bake your pizza to golden perfection.
Chicken Enchilada Pizza: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, white sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Once the yeast is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Enchilada Sauce
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the enchilada sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the chicken or vegetable stock and flour until smooth. Add the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, oregano, and pepper. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy crust for your Chicken Enchilada Pizza.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness—thin crust or thick crust, it’s up to you! Transfer the rolled dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Step 6: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a generous amount of the enchilada sauce over the rolled-out dough. Scatter the shredded chicken evenly across the top, followed by the diced onions, mozzarella cheese, and pepper jack cheese (if using). Finish with any additional toppings such as jalapeños, grape tomatoes, and black olives.
Step 7: Bake the Pizza
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for added flavor and freshness. Slice up your Chicken Enchilada Pizza and serve it hot!
Variations for Dietary Needs
Don’t hesitate to adapt this Chicken Enchilada Pizza to suit your dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pizza dough and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans or additional veggies for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheeses to make this pizza suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
- Spicy Kick: Add more chili powder or crushed red pepper for an extra spicy version.
Pro Perspective
This Chicken Enchilada Pizza brings together two beloved dishes into one glorious creation. The balance of flavors is key; if you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili powder in the enchilada sauce. Alternatively, for a more pronounced heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings based on your personal preferences! For additional inspiration, check out Amazing Homemade Chicken Enchiladas or Chili Lime Chicken Drumsticks With Quick Salsa.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Leftover Chicken Enchilada Pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza by wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 2 months—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick meal!
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough is a great alternative. Just roll it out and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
What type of cheese works best for this pizza?
For a classic taste, mozzarella cheese is recommended. However, the addition of pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick, and you can always mix in your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.
How can I make this pizza spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more chili powder to the enchilada sauce, or top the pizza with sliced jalapeños and sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes just before serving.
Can I make the enchilada sauce in advance?
Yes, the enchilada sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it when you’re ready to use it for your pizza.
More from the Kitchen
For more delicious recipes, check out these favorites:
- Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
- Amazing Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
- Chili Lime Chicken Drumsticks With Quick Salsa
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Chicken Enchilada Pizza, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and share this delightful dish. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma, this pizza will not only satisfy hunger but also create lasting memories. The joy of cooking is best shared, so don’t be shy—invite your friends over, pour some drinks, and enjoy this culinary adventure together. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Enchilada Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough - Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, white sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Once the yeast is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Step 2: Knead the Dough - Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Make the Enchilada Sauce - While the dough is rising, you can prepare the enchilada sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the chicken or vegetable stock and flour until smooth. Add the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, oregano, and pepper. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 4: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy crust for your Chicken Enchilada Pizza.
- Step 5: Shape the Dough - Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness—thin crust or thick crust, it’s up to you! Transfer the rolled dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Step 6: Assemble the Pizza - Spread a generous amount of the enchilada sauce over the rolled-out dough. Scatter the shredded chicken evenly across the top, followed by the diced onions, mozzarella cheese, and pepper jack cheese (if using). Finish with any additional toppings such as jalapeños, grape tomatoes, and black olives.
- Step 7: Bake the Pizza - Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve - Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for added flavor and freshness. Slice up your Chicken Enchilada Pizza and serve it hot!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour for the dough.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
