Easy Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza Recipe to Try
If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances spicy heat, creamy cheese, and tender chicken on a crispy crust, then this Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza is just what you need. Bursting with bold flavors and easy to prepare, this pizza is a game-changer for your next dinner or casual get-together. Whether you’re a pizza lover or a fan of spicy Buffalo wings, this recipe combines the best of both worlds in one delicious, cheesy slice you won’t forget.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The spicy Buffalo sauce paired with melty cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Game Night Favorite: This Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza is a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by controlling the amount of Buffalo sauce and spices you add.
- Uses Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items, making it ideal for any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza recipe uses straightforward ingredients that blend wonderfully to create its signature spicy and cheesy profile. Each component plays a key role, from adding zest to providing creaminess and crunch.
- Pre-cooked chicken breast or thighs: Adds tender, protein-rich chunks that soak up Buffalo sauce beautifully.
- Buffalo hot sauce: The star ingredient providing that classic spicy kick.
- Pizza dough: Choose store-bought or homemade for the perfect crispy, chewy base.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, balancing heat with creamy goodness.
- Blue cheese crumbles: Adds tangy richness characteristic of Buffalo dishes.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing: For drizzling or dipping, rounding out warmth and spice.
- Green onions or chives: Adds freshness and a slight crunch as a vibrant finishing touch.
Variations for Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza
Feel free to tailor this Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza to your preferences or dietary needs. It’s easy to switch up ingredients or add extras to make it uniquely yours.
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for crispy cauliflower or chickpeas tossed in Buffalo sauce.
- Extra heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for those who love it fiery.
- Cheese choices: Try pepper jack or smoked gouda for a different cheesiness.
- Whole wheat crust: Use whole wheat or gluten-free dough for a healthier or allergy-friendly base.
- Additional toppings: Consider diced celery, red onions, or roasted bell peppers to boost texture and flavor.
How to Make Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by shredding or chopping your pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and tossing them generously with Buffalo hot sauce until evenly coated.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, gently roll your pizza dough into your desired size and shape, about 12 inches in diameter, and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Spread the Buffalo-coated chicken over the cheese, then scatter blue cheese crumbles on top for that tangy contrast.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings
Once out of the oven, top with chopped green onions or chives. Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the pizza immediately before slicing.
Pro Tips for Making Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza
- Use pre-cooked chicken: Saves time and keeps the chicken tender after baking.
- Don’t overload the toppings: Too much sauce or cheese can weigh down the crust and make it soggy.
- Preheat your oven thoroughly: A hot oven ensures crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Experiment with dough thickness: Thin crust gives crispiness, while thicker dough offers a chewier bite.
- Brush crust with butter or garlic oil: This adds extra flavor and a beautiful golden color to the edges.
How to Serve Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped green onions or parsley add a pop of color and freshness that complements the heat from the Buffalo sauce. A light drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing also enhances creamy flavor and balances the spiciness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza with crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic Buffalo wing experience. A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pizza on a wooden pizza peel or a rustic cutting board for that cozy, homemade vibe. Cut into squares or traditional slices and arrange on a platter alongside dipping sauces to encourage sharing and snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole pizza tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza slices can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delicious taste.
Reheating
Reheat pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent a soggy crust and unevenly melted cheese.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to cook and shred the chicken beforehand to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender without drying out the pizza during baking.
What type of Buffalo sauce works best?
Classic hot wing sauces with a balanced blend of vinegar, cayenne, and butter flavors work great, but feel free to pick a milder or spicier version depending on your heat preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap regular pizza dough for a gluten-free variety, and all other ingredients typically remain suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I prepare this pizza vegan?
Yes, use a vegan pizza dough and substitute chicken with a plant-based protein like Buffalo seasoned tofu or cauliflower; also, replace cheese with vegan cheese alternatives.
How spicy is this Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza?
The spice level is customizable by adjusting the amount of Buffalo sauce and choosing milder or hotter versions, making it suitable for various tastes from mild to fiery.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza recipe is a true winner for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy, satisfying meals. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking to impress at a party, this pizza is sure to become one of your favorites. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and bring that perfect spicy-cheesy combo right into your kitchen!
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Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza
This Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza perfectly combines spicy Buffalo sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender chicken on a crispy crust. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy and flavorful dish ideal for busy weeknights, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Customize the spice level and toppings to suit your tastes, offering a bold cheesy slice that Buffalo wing lovers and pizza fans will adore.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 to 1.5 cups pre-cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup Buffalo hot sauce
Dough and Cheese
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), about 12 inches in diameter
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles
Toppings and Finishing
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling or dipping (about ¼ cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Shred or chop your pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them generously with Buffalo hot sauce until evenly coated.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, gently roll your pizza dough into a 12-inch diameter circle and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Assemble the Pizza: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Spread the Buffalo-coated chicken over the cheese, then scatter blue cheese crumbles on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with chopped green onions or chives. Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the pizza immediately before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken to save time and keep it tender during baking.
- Do not overload with sauce or cheese to prevent a soggy crust.
- Preheat oven thoroughly for a crispy crust and melted cheese.
- Experiment with dough thickness depending on preferred crust texture.
- Brush crust edges with butter or garlic oil for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pizza
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Buffalo chicken pizza, spicy pizza, Buffalo wings, easy pizza recipe, game night food, quick dinner, cheesy pizza
