If you love the rich, creamy flavors of Indian butter chicken but are craving a fun twist, then this Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Imagine golden, crispy pizza crust topped with luscious butter chicken sauce, tender chicken pieces, melted mozzarella, and a hint of fresh cilantro—this fusion delight combines the best of two beloved cuisines in every bite. Whether you’re surprising your family or impressing friends, this pizza brings warmth, spice, and irresistible comfort right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that each play a key role in creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the soft, stretchy pizza dough to the creamy butter chicken sauce, every component adds a unique touch that transforms the familiar pizza into something extraordinary.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Use store-bought or homemade dough for a chewy, crispy foundation.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Brushing the dough with olive oil ensures a golden, crisp crust.
- 1/2 cup butter chicken sauce: Choose a flavorful jarred sauce or make your own for a rich, tangy base.
- 1 cup cooked butter chicken, chopped: Leftover butter chicken works beautifully, providing tender, spiced meat.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and balances the spices with creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds a sharp bite and colorful contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbal finish that brightens up each slice.
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala (optional): A sprinkle for extra warmth and aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat kick if you like it spicy.
- Flour for dusting: Keeps the dough from sticking while you roll it out.
How to Make Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C) so it’s ready to give your pizza the perfect crisp. Lightly dust a flat surface with flour and roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. This step is crucial because a nicely rolled dough ensures an even, golden crust that holds all those delicious toppings without getting soggy.
Step 2: Transfer and Oil the Crust
Place your rolled-out dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Then, brush the entire surface lightly with olive oil. This small step makes a huge difference, giving the crust a beautiful sheen and preventing it from drying out during baking.
Step 3: Spread the Butter Chicken Sauce
Next, evenly spread the butter chicken sauce over the dough’s surface. This flavorful sauce replaces the traditional tomato base, infusing the pizza with a tangy, buttery richness that pairs perfectly with all the other ingredients. For an extra creamy touch, try mixing the sauce with a tablespoon of cream before spreading.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Scatter the chopped cooked butter chicken generously over the sauced dough. Follow with a hearty layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, then top with those thin slices of red onion. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some garam masala and red chili flakes for added aroma and spice complexity—these optional touches elevate the whole flavor profile beautifully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pizza into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—look for a crust that’s golden brown and cheese that’s perfectly melted and bubbling. This stage is where the magic happens, locking in all those Indian-inspired flavors into a melty, crispy masterpiece.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your pizza cool for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro. The bright herb adds a fresh, uplifting note that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce and cheese. Slice it up and get ready to wow your taste buds.
How to Serve Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the chopped cilantro, you can add a drizzle of yogurt or a sprinkle of chaat masala for extra zing. Thinly sliced green chilies or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top just before serving brings an exciting contrast of flavor, perfect for those who love some extra freshness and a touch of tang.
Side Dishes
Pair your Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe with a crisp cucumber raita or a simple mixed green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. These cooling sides cut through the richness of the pizza and add refreshing crunch, making your meal well balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun sharing experience, cut the pizza into small squares and serve as finger food at casual gatherings. You can also serve alongside warm naan and chutneys to embrace the Indian fusion vibe fully. Elevate the presentation by arranging the pizza slices on a wooden board garnished with fresh cilantro sprigs and lemon wedges.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making the pizza slices even more savory when reheated.
Freezing
Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe slices freeze well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this fusion delight anytime cravings hit.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought butter chicken sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought butter chicken sauce works wonderfully and saves time, though homemade sauce adds a special homemade touch and lets you control the spice levels.
Is it necessary to use mozzarella cheese?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone or a mild cheddar to add different depth, just keep the balance so it doesn’t overpower the sauce’s flavors.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough. The Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe is versatile enough to accommodate dietary needs without losing flavor or texture.
What’s the best way to cook the butter chicken for this pizza?
Using leftover cooked butter chicken is perfect, but if making fresh, grill or cook the chicken until tender and toss in butter chicken sauce just before adding to the pizza to keep it juicy and flavorful.
How spicy is this pizza?
You control the heat! The recipe includes optional red chili flakes and garam masala to add warmth. If you prefer mild, omit these extras; if you love spice, feel free to increase them to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about merging two beloved dishes into one irresistible creation, and this Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe does exactly that with flair and flavor. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or an exciting party appetizer, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies all around. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy Indian flavors with a cheesy, crispy twist!
Print
Butter Chicken Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired, Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Butter Chicken Pizza is a delicious fusion recipe combining classic Indian flavors with the beloved Italian pizza. Featuring a crispy crust topped with rich butter chicken, mozzarella cheese, and aromatic spices, this pizza offers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory tastes. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for a unique weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- flour for dusting
Toppings
- 1/2 cup butter chicken sauce (from jar or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked butter chicken (chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking a crispy and golden pizza crust.
- Prepare Dough: Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone for baking.
- Apply Base: Brush the surface of the dough evenly with olive oil, then spread the butter chicken sauce over the base to provide a flavorful foundation for the toppings.
- Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the chopped cooked butter chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, and red onion slices on top. For added flavor, sprinkle garam masala and red chili flakes if using.
- Bake Pizza: Place the prepared pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, slice into 8 pieces, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use leftover butter chicken or rotisserie chicken tossed in butter chicken sauce for convenience.
- For a creamier pizza base, mix the butter chicken sauce with a tablespoon of cream before spreading it on the dough.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free crust option.
- If you prefer a milder spice, omit the red chili flakes.
