Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza Recipe

Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza is a delightful and savory twist on traditional pizza. Unlike classic pizzas that rely on tomato sauce as the base, this recipe features a rich, creamy white sauce, elevated by the deep, sweet flavor of roasted garlic and the satisfying texture of tender chicken. Topped with a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses, it’s an indulgent dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just as a treat when you want something beyond the usual pizza options.

The combination of roasted garlic and chicken gives this pizza a savory and comforting flavor profile, while the white sauce provides a smooth, creamy texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients. This pizza is incredibly versatile and can be made with various toppings, making it easy to tailor to different tastes.

In this recipe, we will guide you through every step, from preparing the garlic and chicken to assembling and baking the pizza. Additionally, we will cover some tips, variations, and ways to store leftovers to ensure you can enjoy this pizza at its best, whether fresh or as leftovers.

The History of White Pizza

White pizza, also known as pizza bianca, originates from Italy and traditionally uses a garlic-infused olive oil base or a rich cream sauce instead of the usual tomato sauce. In Italy, pizza bianca is often served as an appetizer or side dish rather than a main course, although in the U.S., it has evolved into a popular main dish.

The concept of white pizza is relatively modern compared to the more traditional red-sauced pizzas, which have been around for centuries. Pizza bianca gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, especially in Italian-American pizzerias. As time went on, toppings like roasted vegetables, meats, and cheeses were added to create unique variations. The Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza is a contemporary twist, incorporating roasted garlic for an aromatic and savory flavor, along with tender chicken for added protein and texture.

What Makes Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza Special?

Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza is special because it combines several elements that make it unique and flavorful:

• Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness, making it milder and more aromatic than raw garlic. The caramelized flavor of roasted garlic provides a depth of taste that pairs wonderfully with the creamy white sauce and savory chicken.

• White Sauce: Instead of the traditional tomato-based sauce, this pizza uses a creamy white sauce, often made with heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This sauce is rich and velvety, creating a luxurious texture that enhances the pizza’s overall mouthfeel.

• Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken adds a satisfying protein element to the pizza, making it more filling and balanced. The chicken pairs beautifully with the other flavors and adds a bit of smokiness or char from the grilling process.

• Cheese Combination: The blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, gooey, and slightly tangy layer of cheese that complements the savory roasted garlic and chicken.

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

   • In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
   • Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

2. Roast the Garlic:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
   • Wrap the garlic in foil and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden.
   • Allow the garlic to cool slightly before squeezing the roasted cloves out of their skins. Mash the garlic into a paste.

3. Prepare the White Sauce:

   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
   • Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
   • Spread a thin layer of roasted garlic paste over the pizza dough.
   • Drizzle a generous amount of white sauce over the garlic.
   • Add the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan.

5. Bake the Pizza:

   • Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
   • Remove from the oven and drizzle with a little olive oil. Sprinkle with fresh basil and a pinch of sea salt if desired.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza

• Dough Temperature: Ensure that your dough is not too thick. If it’s too thick, it may not cook evenly, and the crust might be too chewy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: While roasted garlic is delicious, fresh garlic in the sauce or sprinkled on top can add a sharper, more robust flavor.
• Chicken Options: If you prefer, you can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken for a quicker version of the pizza.
• Cheese Substitutes: You can try different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or fontina for variations in flavor and texture.

Variations of Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza

• Vegetarian White Pizza: Skip the chicken and add a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, artichokes, and bell peppers.
• Spicy White Pizza: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Buffalo Chicken White Pizza: Substitute the regular chicken with shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy, tangy twist.

Healthier Versions of White Pizza

• Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier, more fiber-rich crust.
• Light Cheese Options: Choose part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat ricotta to cut down on calories.
• Lean Chicken: Use skinless, boneless chicken breast for a leaner protein option.

Pairing Suggestions

• A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the pizza.
• A fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pizza.
• For a more indulgent pairing, try a cold beer, such as a pale ale or lager.

Conclusion

Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza is a luxurious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic, creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a savory, comforting alternative to traditional pizza.

This comprehensive recipe not only provides step-by-step instructions but also gives insights into variations and healthier alternatives. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family with its incredible taste and texture.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious pizza, and don’t forget to experiment with your own toppings and flavors to make it your own!

Yield: 1 Large Pizza (about 8 slices)

Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza Recipe

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Roasted Garlic Chicken White Pizza is a delightful and savory twist on traditional pizza. Unlike classic pizzas that rely on tomato sauce as the base, this recipe features a rich, creamy white sauce, elevated by the deep, sweet flavor of roasted garlic and the satisfying texture of tender chicken. Topped with a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses, it’s an indulgent dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just as a treat when you want something beyond the usual pizza options.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Roasted Garlic:
• 1 head of garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Pizza:
• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Roast the garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and wrap in foil. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the garlic is soft and golden. Let cool slightly, then squeeze the garlic out of the cloves and mash with a fork. Set aside.
2. Prepare the pizza sauce: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the roasted garlic, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be the white sauce for your pizza.
3. Preheat the oven: If you're using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven at 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes before baking. Otherwise, use a baking sheet and preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
4. Assemble the pizza: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
5. Add the toppings: Spread the roasted garlic white sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded chicken evenly over the sauce. Then, top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the pizza: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

• Chicken options: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience, or grill your own chicken breast and slice or shred it.
• Pizza dough: You can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch. If you're short on time, pre-made dough works perfectly.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken for a delicious roasted garlic and cheese pizza. You could also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes.
• Extra garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to roast two heads of garlic for an even more intense flavor.