Preview: Chicken Pesto Pizza is a family favorite because it’s so easy and something a little bit different. Use pesto instead of pizza sauce. Then top with the usual Mozzarella and chicken chunks. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Does homemade pizza seem like too much trouble? I understand. If it’s the crust that gives you heartburn, consider buying the dough. If it’s preparing a bunch of ingredients, this recipe may be for you.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any other sliced cooked chicken you have on hand. Use jarred or homemade pesto sauce instead of pizza sauce (any flavor). It’s a nice variation that’s not too out there but tastes delicious.
This recipe was first published back in 2014. The original post is now a separate list of secrets for making the best homemade pizza without a baking stone.
Got you covered on the pizza dough.
Need a good pizza dough recipe? T
Both recipes are written to be made in a bread machine. However, you can also use a food processor, stand mixer, or make it by hand. Directions for this modification are included in the recipe notes.
Don’t have cilantro or green chile pesto on hand?
Use basil pesto instead. If you want to try this and can’t find cilantro or green chile pesto, try making it here. It’s not difficult. Basically, you substitute cilantro for basil.
Just like basil pesto, cilantro pesto is versatile. Use it in salad dressings, over pasta, or as a spread on hot French bread.
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p.s. If you have any questions or suggestions, you can email me privately: Paula at saladinajar.com.
Hope to see you again soon!
Paula
Chicken Pesto Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 13-inch pizza crust - (My pizza dough recipe will make two crusts.)
- 2 tablespoons pesto - cilantro or green chile pesto
- 4 ounces Mozzarella cheese - shredded
- 1 cup seasoned chicken - diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro - chopped or torn
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450˚ F.
- Brush olive oil over the bottom of your pizza pan. Place your flattened pizza dough into the pan and use fingers to stretch it to the edges. (If it wants to spring back, give the dough a 15-minute rest.)
- Spread pesto in a thin layer over the raw pizza dough.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly on top of the pesto, then do the same with the chicken. If desired, save a little cheese to sprinkle over the top of the chicken.
- Place pizza into the oven and reduce temperature to 425 degrees F. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, but start checking at around 13 minutes.
- Pizza is done when lightly browned on top and the crust is golden brown and crispy on the bottom.