🔥 Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe | Cook Today

by | Jun 3, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Recipes

It was a chilly Saturday evening when Margaret decided to try something new at home. She was looking for a dish that packed a punch. So, she chose to make her own buffalo chicken pizza. This pizza was made with the famous Frank’s Buffalo sauce and lots of shredded chicken. In the end, Margaret’s homemade pizza turned out so well, she gave it 5 stars in her review.

Margaret’s buffalo chicken pizza is more than just a meal. It brings together the hot tang of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of melted cheese. This special blend gives you a burst of flavors in every bite. Making it on an 11×14-inch pizza crust makes it both comforting and exciting. And the best part? Sharing this tasty treat with family and friends, all made in the comfort of your kitchen.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Margaret rated the buffalo chicken pizza recipe with 5 stars, highlighting its enjoyable taste.
  • The recipe uses Frank’s Buffalo sauce for its signature spicy kick.
  • It requires 8 ounces of cooked and shredded chicken breast.
  • Bake the pizza at 425 degrees F for 15-18 minutes.
  • Pair the pizza with a dry Riesling, Pinot Grigio, or a cold beer.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Introduction to Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza shakes up the usual taste of pizza with hot buffalo chicken sauce and gooey cheese. It combines the sharp, fiery kick of buffalo chicken with the smooth, cheesy taste of pizza. The mix of spicy chicken and cream cheese on the crust is simply delicious.

Its beginnings come from a deep love of pizza and buffalo wings. Mixing these two favorites creates an exciting new food experience. Frank’s Red Hot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce is what gives it the perfect spicy kick, making everyone fall in love with it.

This meal is quick to make, taking only 25 minutes. You can add your favorite toppings like shredded chicken, tomatoes, or green onions to make it even better. With this, it easily becomes a favorite for all sorts of tastes.

This pizza is at its prime when fresh from the oven at 450°F. Baking the crust partially before adding the toppings is a good idea. It helps make a crunchier base. And, using mozzarella cheese works best to blend with Frank’s hot sauce.

If you have leftovers, the pizza can stay good in the fridge for five days. Or you can freeze it for up to three months. Reheating in the oven at 300°F or the microwave keeps it tasting great. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you want.

Nutritional Information (per serving) Calories: 269kcal Carbohydrates: 26g Protein: 15g Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g Cholesterol: 39mg Sodium: 711mg Potassium: 147mg
Sugar: 2g Vitamin A: 390IU Vitamin C: 2.3mg Calcium: 207mg
Iron: 1.6mg

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pizza

This buffalo chicken pizza recipe is special for many reasons. It’s great for any event, from Sunday football to Tuesday dinners. With simple steps, even beginners can make a great meal.

easy buffalo chicken pizza

Perfect for Game Day or Any Occasion

Game days are perfect for this buffalo chicken pizza. It has a tangy taste from Frank’s RedHot sauce that goes well with beer. Plus, you get 12 slices to share, and it takes only 15 minutes to cook.

Ideal for Spicy Food Lovers

For those who love spicy food, this pizza is a dream. It’s topped with a mix of cheeses, sauces, and herbs that pack a punch. Every bite is flavorful and exciting.

This pizza is not just about spice; it’s also nutritious. One serving has about 323 kcal. So, it’s great for enjoying alone or with friends at any time.

Ingredients Needed for Homemade Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Start by getting everything you need for a tasty homemade buffalo chicken pizza. It’s all about a mix of key ingredients. This guarantees each mouthful is packed with taste. We will go through what you must have and what you might want on top to please a crowd.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Shredded Chicken 1 ½ cups
Buffalo Sauce 1/3 cup
Blue Cheese Dressing 1/4 cup
Pizza Dough 1 lb.
Pizza Sauce 1/2 cup
Mozzarella Cheese 1 ½ cups
Red Onions 1/4 cup
Banana Pepper Rings 1/4 cup

Optional Toppings

If you want to make your buffalo chicken pizza special, think about adding:

  • Extra Buffalo Sauce
  • Ranch Dressing
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • Green Onions
  • Gorgonzola Cheese
  • Celery

These extras let you personalize your pizza’s flavor. This way, each piece of your homemade buffalo chicken pizza turns out different and delicious.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pizza Dough

Making your own pizza dough is key to a great pizza. This recipe is for a buffalo chicken pizza, known for its sturdy yet soft base. But, you can also use good dough from the store to save time and still enjoy your buffalo chicken pizza.

Homemade Dough Recipe

  • Water: 3/4 cup of warm water (around 110 degrees)
  • Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose or bread flour
  • Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast

Start by mixing sugar and yeast in warm water and let it sit. It should get frothy in about 5 minutes. Next, mix the flour and salt in a big bowl. Make a hole in the middle and add the yeast mix and olive oil. Mix slowly until it’s dough, then knead it for 10 minutes until smooth.

Put your dough in a bowl, coat it with oil, cover with a damp cloth, and let it double in size in a warm place for about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

easy buffalo chicken pizza dough recipe

Store-Bought Alternatives

If you’re in a rush, store-bought dough is a fine choice. Places like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s have good options. Follow the dough’s cooking instructions for the best base for your buffalo chicken pizza.

Source Preparation Time Benefits
Homemade Dough 1 hour and 25 minutes Fresh, personalized flavor
Whole Foods Store-Bought 15 minutes Convenience, consistent quality
Trader Joe’s Store-Bought 15 minutes Affordability, ease of use

How to Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

Getting the buffalo chicken just right is key. Make sure the chicken is both tender and flavorful. Mixing it with a homemade buffalo sauce turns any pizza into a mouthwatering treat.

Chicken Preparation Tips

Start with 1 ½ cups of shredded chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder. Then, cook the chicken until it’s soft. You can boil it or use a slow cooker. After cooking, finely shred the chicken.

Buffalo Sauce Recipe

Making your own buffalo sauce can up the flavor. Mix 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Add a little garlic powder if you like. This mix makes a tasty, tangy sauce. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less buffalo sauce.

Now, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Mix it until all the chicken is coated. This sauce-covered chicken is a perfect topping for your pizza. It adds a zesty, spicy kick to every slice.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Toppings for Extra Flavor

When making buffalo chicken pizza, selecting the best toppings is crucial. It can significantly enhance the taste and feel. Different cheese types and fresh herbs can really add to the pizza.

Cheese Choices

Cheese is essential for buffalo chicken pizza. A mix of mozzarella and blue cheese works wonders. Mozzarella makes the pizza gooey. Blue cheese gives a sharp kick that goes well with the spicy chicken.

  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup blue cheese dressing

Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices are key too. Fresh cilantro adds a lovely smell. Dried oregano or red pepper flakes boost the sauce’s bold flavor.

  • ¼ cup red onions
  • ¼ cup banana pepper rings
Ingredient Amount Calories Fat Carbohydrates Protein
1 ½ cups shredded chicken 1 ½ cups 155kcal 11g 29g 17g
1/3 cup buffalo sauce 1/3 cup 50kcal 4g 2g 1g
1 lb. pizza dough 1 lb. 260kcal 9g 45g 8g
½ cup pizza sauce ½ cup 70kcal 2g 9g 3g

Adding ranch dressing is a great flavor boost. It makes the pizza taste creamy and cool. This pairs well with the spicy chicken, giving every bite a spicy-smooth contrast.

Assembling and Baking Your Pizza

First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Roll out 1 lb. of pizza dough on a floured surface. Make it as thick as you like. Then, spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce over the dough, making sure to leave a border.

Now, add 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheese should cover the pizza evenly. Next, add 1 ½ cups of shredded chicken mixed with 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce.

Toss on ¼ cup each of red onions and banana pepper rings. Using a brush or spoon, drizzle ¼ cup of blue cheese dressing.

To make the crust tasty, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of Parmesan cheese. Add ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. These toppings will bake into a flavorful crust.

Put the pizza in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. It should bake until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles. Let it cool a bit after taking it out before you cut into it.

Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need for this buffalo chicken pizza recipe:

Ingredient Quantity
Shredded Chicken 1 ½ cups
Buffalo Sauce 1/3 cup
Blue Cheese Dressing ¼ cup
Pizza Dough 1 lb.
Pizza Sauce 1/2 cup
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese 1 ½ cups
Red Onions ¼ cup
Banana Pepper Rings ¼ cup
Melted Butter 1 tablespoon
Parmesan Cheese 1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder ¼ teaspoon

By following these steps, you’ll make the best buffalo chicken pizza recipe. Every slice will be full of spice, savor, and cheese.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe

Turn your kitchen into a pizzeria with this mouth-watering buffalo chicken pizza recipe. It’s great for any time, offering a mix of spicy, tangy, and cheesy flavors. First, grab these ingredients: 1 ½ cups of shredded chicken, 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce, and ¼ cup of blue cheese dressing.

Use 1 pound of pizza dough for the crust. Add ½ a cup of pizza sauce. Then, layer on 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese. Next, sprinkle on ¼ cup each of thinly sliced red onions and banana pepper rings. This mix gives you a pizza that’s full of flavor and an exciting texture.

buffalo chicken pizza recipe

Bake at 425°F for 15 to 18 minutes. You want the crust golden and cheese melted and slightly brown. The right heat and time make a perfect pizza.

Each slice of this easy buffalo chicken pizza has 278 calories. It also provides important nutrients like Vitamin A and Iron. It takes an hour and 25 minutes from start to finish and serves 8, making it quick and tasty.

See the nutrition facts per slice below:

Nutrition Per Slice
Calories 278 kcal
Carbohydrates 29g
Protein 17g
Fat 11g
Saturated Fat 5g
Cholesterol 41mg
Sodium 1050mg
Potassium 133mg
Fiber 1g
Sugar 5g
Vitamin A 274IU
Iron 2mg

Knowing the nutrition facts helps you enjoy your easy buffalo chicken pizza even more. Add extra buffalo sauce before you serve the pizza for a spicier kick!

Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pizza Crust

Creating the perfect crust for your buffalo chicken pizza is key. It ensures each slice is a joy to eat. We’ll give you the top tips for an amazing pizza crust.

High-Temperature Baking

To get a crust that’s crunchy outside but soft inside, bake at high temps. Heat your oven to at least 475°F (245°C). This fast heat locks in moisture, keeping the dough light. Using a pizza stone helps by spreading heat evenly and soaking up extra water.

Crispy vs. Soft Crust

Your buffalo chicken flatbread’s texture is up to you. For a crispier crust, bake at high heat longer. Before baking, brush the crust with melted butter and garlic. If you want it softer, reduce the heat and bake for less time.

Aspect High-Temperature Baking Crispy Crust Soft Crust
Temperature 475°F+ 475°F with longer bake Lower than 475°F
Time 10-15 minutes 15-20 minutes 10-12 minutes
Additional Tips Use a pizza stone Brushing edges with butter Covering during the final minutes

By mastering these details, you can make your buffalo chicken pizza just the way you like. Whether you go for the chew of Neapolitan or the crunch of American-style, these tips are your recipe for success.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Flatbread as an Alternative

For a change from regular pizza, try the buffalo chicken flatbread recipe. It’s crunchy, light, and full of flavor. Instead of the usual pizza dough, you use naan bread. This gives it a thin, crispy texture that many people find refreshing.

buffalo chicken flatbread recipe

This recipe uses simple ingredients that pack a powerful taste. Naan bread is perfect as the base since it gets crispy easily. For the toppings, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce for that classic spicy taste.

  1. Dough Preparation: With one mix, you can make lots of appetizer-sized flatbreads or a few bigger ones. This lets you adjust for different numbers of people.
  2. Topping the Flatbread: Start with a layer of ranch dressing on the naan. Then, add the buffalo chicken and cheese. Monterey Jack cheese is best for its melting quality.
  3. Finishing Touches: After baking, sprinkle on blue cheese and green onions. They add a tangy, savory finish to your flatbread.

Bake your flatbread at 475°F for 7-11 minutes. This makes the edges crispy and the cheese bubble. For a different crunch, try baking at 425°F with slight time adjustments.

This dish is ready in less than 20 minutes, great for any event. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a sports night snack, everyone will love it.

  • Calories: 334kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 602mg
  • Potassium: 259mg
  • Fiber: 0.01g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 287IU
  • Calcium: 326mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Pairing Your Buffalo Chicken Pizza with Sauces

Finding the right sauce for your spicy chicken pizza can elevate your meal. Ranch dressing’s cool, creamy taste balances the pizza’s spicy kick. A bit of ranch makes every bite of buffalo chicken pizza tasty and complete.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing goes well with buffalo chicken pizza for a flavor win. Its tangy creaminess meshes with the buffalo sauce and the pizza’s ingredients. For extra flavor, try drizzling some ranch on your pizza after it’s baked.

Extra Buffalo Sauce

If you love the heat, a bit more buffalo sauce on your pizza is great. Adding extra sauce after baking intensifies the flavor and the kick. This is perfect for those who like their pizza with a spicy punch.

Pairing sauces like ranch or extra buffalo sauce with your pizza ensures everyone enjoys it. Each bite becomes a mix of delicious, coordinated flavors.

Variations and Twists on the Classic Recipe

The classic homemade buffalo chicken pizza is a hit. But, trying out different buffalo chicken pizza toppings can level up the fun. We’re going to dive into some tasty twists that will make your pizza love even stronger.

Adding Blue Cheese

Adding blue cheese can make your buffalo chicken pizza better. This cheese works well with the hot buffalo sauce. It gives a creamy twist to the spicy bites. Just sprinkle some on the pizza before baking. You’ll get a mix of amazing flavors. People who like strong, tangy flavors usually love this.

Making it Extra Saucy

If you like your pizza with more sauce, go for it. You can stick with buffalo sauce or try barbeque sauce. More sauce means a juicier pizza. Start with a recipe like Racheal Ray’s buffalo chicken pizza recipe. Then, add more sauce before the cheese. This step makes every slice full of flavor.

Variation Description Benefit
Blue Cheese Addition Crumble blue cheese over the pizza before baking. Provides a bold, tangy contrast to the spiciness.
Extra Saucy Add extra buffalo or barbeque sauce. Increases juiciness and flavor intensity.

Trying these tweaks can turn your homemade buffalo chicken pizza into something very personal. Whether you go for more sauciness or love blue cheese, these ideas ensure every pizza night is special and tasty. Enjoy your pizza journey with these fun variations!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Making your own homemade buffalo chicken pizza is fun, but you need to avoid some pitfalls. Follow these tips to create a perfect easy buffalo chicken pizza without mistakes.

  • Overloading with Toppings: Don’t put too many toppings on, or the crust will get soggy. Use the right amounts: 4 tablespoons ranch dressing, 4 tablespoons buffalo sauce, 2 cups of chicken, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, and 1 cup cheddar cheese.
  • Under-seasoning the Chicken: Make sure your chicken is full of flavor. Season it well to match the buffalo sauce’s kick.
  • Incorrect Oven Temperature: Set your oven to 475°F before you start. A lower temperature won’t make the crust crispy in 10-12 minutes.
  • Ignoring Serving Size: Stick to the serving size to keep everything in balance. The recipe serves 12, so don’t put too much on one pizza.
  • Ineffective Use of Cheese: Mix mozzarella and cheddar for the best taste and texture, without making the crust heavy.
  • Neglecting Garnishes: A chopped scallion on top adds a nice touch of freshness. Don’t forget these little extras.
  • Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh dough and chicken make a big difference. They taste better than pre-made or take-out ingredients.

Keep these mistakes in mind to make a wonderful homemade buffalo chicken pizza. With each slice, you’re not just eating. You’re also supporting local food and businesses, while enjoying a fresh, quality meal at home.

Conclusion

Making the best buffalo chicken pizza recipe is a fun journey. It’s filled with learning about ingredients and cooking methods. Premium items like shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cheeses on dough or flatbread make a tasty treat. Knowing the calories is key to making it suit different diets while being yummy.

It’s vital to adjust the spice to your liking. Homemade buffalo sauce lets you change it to match how spicy you like. And, you can add toppings like green onions for extra flavor. This makes your buffalo chicken pizza special and delicious.

This recipe is for everyone, from beginners to experts. Just follow the steps and you’ll make a pizza that everyone loves. It brings the fantastic taste of buffalo sauce together with the joy of pizza. Mixing cooking skills with your own creativity makes cooking this pizza fun and full of flavor.

FAQ

What ingredients do I need for homemade buffalo chicken pizza?

For homemade buffalo chicken pizza, you’ll need pizza dough and cooked shredded chicken. Also, buffalo sauce, mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese. You can add fresh cilantro, more buffalo sauce, or ranch dressing too.

How do I prepare the chicken for buffalo chicken pizza?

Cook and season the chicken until it’s tender, then shred it. You can also make your own buffalo sauce. Just mix hot sauce, butter, and spices for a tasty kick.

Can I use store-bought dough for my buffalo chicken pizza?

Yes, you can. Good quality store-bought dough from places like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s works well. It saves you time but still tastes good.

What kind of cheese is best for buffalo chicken pizza?

Mozzarella, cheddar, and blue cheese are the top picks. Mozzarella is creamy, cheddar is sharp, and blue cheese is tangy. They create a delicious mix of flavors.

How can I customize my buffalo chicken pizza?

Add your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, more buffalo sauce, or ranch dressing. Try different cheese mixes and extra spices to make it just right for you.

What temperature should I bake my buffalo chicken pizza at?

Set your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. The time may vary based on your oven.

How do I achieve the perfect pizza crust?

Baking your pizza at high temperatures makes the crust crispy outside and soft inside. Try different baking times and temperatures to get the crust just how you like it.

What is the difference between buffalo chicken pizza and buffalo chicken flatbread?

Buffalo chicken flatbread has a thin, crispy base unlike regular pizza. It’s prepared and cooked in different ways. Topping proportions are also different.

Can I use ranch dressing on buffalo chicken pizza?

Yes, you can. Ranch dressing adds a cool, creamy taste that goes well with the spicy chicken. You can use it as a base or a drizzle on top.

What are some variations of the classic buffalo chicken pizza recipe?

Adding blue cheese makes the pizza sharper. Or, you can top it with more buffalo or barbecue sauce for a saucier dish. These changes let you tweak the recipe to your liking.

What common mistakes should I avoid when making buffalo chicken pizza?

Don’t put too many toppings that may make the crust soggy. Also, make sure your chicken is well-seasoned to avoid any plain tastes.