If you adore savory, herb-infused dishes that burst with bold flavors, the Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe is a must-try. This pizza combines the mellow sweetness of perfectly roasted garlic with tender shredded chicken and a fragrant mix of herbs, all layered atop a crisp, golden crust and topped with ooey-gooey cheese. It’s a fresh, homemade twist that elevates your pizza night and satisfies garlic lovers like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe is as enjoyable as eating it, thanks to its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken that adds hearty protein to the blend of herbs that brings a fresh and aromatic touch.
- Pizza dough (1 ball, about 1 lb): A sturdy yet tender base to hold all the toppings together perfectly.
- Garlic (1 head): Roasting garlic transforms it into a soft, sweet paste that flavors every bite.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon plus more for brushing): Provides richness and helps brown the crust beautifully.
- Cooked shredded chicken (1 cup): Use grilled or rotisserie for maximum flavor and texture.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Adds a classic herbaceous note essential for Italian-inspired pizzas.
- Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the chicken and garlic.
- Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Infuses the pizza with a bright, slightly sweet herbal flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups): Melts smoothly for that irresistible cheesy stretch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Intensifies the savory profile with its sharp, nutty taste.
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil (2 tablespoons): Used as a lively garnish to brighten the finished pizza.
- Cornmeal or flour (2 tablespoons): Essential for dusting the baking surface to prevent sticking and add texture to the crust.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Slice the top off a whole head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle it with olive oil, then wrap it tightly in foil. Roast the garlic for 35 to 40 minutes until it’s soft, fragrant, and golden. Let it cool enough to handle before squeezing out the cloves and mashing them into a buttery paste. Roasting transforms raw garlic’s pungency into a velvety, mellow flavor that acts as the magic base for your pizza.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough on a well-floured surface or a sheet of parchment paper to about 12 inches in diameter. Then, transfer it carefully onto a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone dusted with cornmeal or flour. The cornmeal helps give the crust that lovely, slightly crunchy edge we all crave. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil—this adds flavor and helps the crust brown evenly in the oven.
Step 3: Build Your Pizza
Spread your luscious roasted garlic paste evenly over the dough to form a savory base layer. Next, scatter the cooked shredded chicken across the pizza, then sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper right over the top. This herb blend is what brings that irresistible, aromatic character that makes this pizza unforgettable. Finally, cover everything with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that beautifully melted and slightly browned finish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the crust to turn a gorgeous golden brown while the cheese melts into bubbling, slightly browned perfection. Keep a close eye toward the end—this is where pizza dreams come true and you know it’s ready by sight and aroma.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle your freshly chopped parsley or basil across the top, adding a fresh pop of color and brightness to contrast that rich roasted garlic flavor. Slice it up and prepare to enjoy a slice of cozy, herb-filled heaven.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are the perfect finishing touch, offering vibrant color and a burst of freshness to every bite. For an extra kick, feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to amplify the flavors.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overpower its complexity. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a light garlic bread make excellent companions that round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe on a wooden pizza peel or large platter. Garnish with whole roasted garlic cloves and fresh herb sprigs alongside to showcase those flavorful ingredients. Cutting into small, appetizer-sized squares also turns this pizza into a delightful party finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pizza remains wonderfully tasty for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze your baked pizza slices by placing parchment paper between them in a freezer-safe container. This helps prevent sticking and freezes well for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy that roasted garlic goodness any time.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melty and the crust is crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the texture and full flavor experience of the pizza.
FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting a whole head?
While pre-minced garlic is convenient, roasting whole garlic develops a sweeter, milder flavor that is crucial for this recipe’s rich and creamy base. Roasting adds depth you simply can’t replicate with raw garlic.
What type of chicken works best for this pizza?
Grilled or rotisserie chicken works beautifully because it’s already cooked and packed with flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even poach your own if preferred.
Is it necessary to use all three dried herbs?
The combination of oregano, thyme, and basil creates the layered herb complexity this pizza shines with, but you can customize it based on your pantry and preferences. Even just one or two will still taste great.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the traditional pizza dough for your favorite gluten-free dough recipe or store-bought version. The toppings and process remain the same for a delicious gluten-free pizza night.
How do I get a crispy crust at home?
Using a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet dusted with cornmeal helps create that crisp crust. Also, baking at a high temperature like 450°F encourages a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe that makes every bite feel like a comforting hug from the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a homemade delight, this pizza combines familiar flavors with a gourmet twist that’s sure to impress. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
Print
Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 large pizza (about 8 slices)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Roasted Garlic Chicken and Herb Pizza is a savory and flavor-packed pizza featuring tender roasted garlic, shredded chicken, a blend of aromatic herbs, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses atop a crisp, golden crust. This pizza offers a delicious twist on the classic with its herby, garlicky base, perfect for garlic lovers and an ideal choice for a comforting homemade pizza night.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 ball (about 1 lb) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal or flour (for dusting)
Roasted Garlic
- 1 head garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for brushing the dough)
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool slightly, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and mash into a smooth paste.
- Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface or parchment paper, roll out the pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Pizza: Lightly brush the dough with olive oil. Spread the roasted garlic paste evenly over the crust as the flavorful base. Evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the garlic layer. Sprinkle dried oregano, thyme, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cheese: Generously cover the pizza with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top to create a rich, cheesy topping.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crisp, and the cheese is bubbly with slight browning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for freshness and color. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toss the shredded chicken with a bit of olive oil and additional herbs before topping the pizza.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat on your pizza.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different cheese profile and taste experience.
- Using a pizza stone can enhance crust crispness but a baking sheet works well too.
