Description
This California Pizza Kitchen Thai Chicken Pizza features a delectable blend of Thai peanut sauce, tender chicken, and a melty cheese combination atop a crispy pizza crust. Enhanced with fresh vegetables and garnished with crunchy peanuts and cilantro, this Asian-inspired pizza offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, ideal for a unique and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 prepared pizza dough for a 12-inch pizza
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1/3 cup Thai peanut sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, to thicken sauce)
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded fontina or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat. This ensures the crust cooks evenly and develops a crisp texture.
- Roll out Dough and Oil: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil to prevent sogginess and enhance browning.
- Spread Sauce: Evenly spread the Thai peanut sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to keep the crust clear for a better bake.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Distribute the cooked chicken evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and fontina (or Monterey Jack) cheeses for a creamy, melty topping.
- Top with Vegetables: Arrange the thinly sliced red bell pepper, red onion, and shredded carrots over the cheese to add crunch and freshness.
- Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza carefully to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven immediately, and sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro. Slice into portions and serve warm to enjoy the complex flavors at their best.
Notes
- For an extra kick, drizzle the finished pizza with chili garlic sauce or sriracha.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Grilled chicken adds a smoky depth to this pizza if preferred.
