Chicken pizza

Chicken Pizza - a delicious and easy-to-make recipe

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Pizza is a dish that has won the hearts of many over time. Whether you enjoy it in the company of loved ones or prepare it for a movie night at home, pizza can be adapted in countless ways, depending on everyone's preferences. In this recipe, we focus on a fluffy crust using fresh yeast and a generous topping of chicken and vegetables. Let’s start this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 125 g cold water
- 125 g warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 400 g flour (ideally type 00)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 25 g fresh yeast

For the topping:
- 1 jar (340 g) sliced mushrooms
- 200 g pitted olives
- 3 boiled and deboned chicken drumsticks
- 200 g pork tenderloin (or any other preferred meat)
- 200 g cheese (preferably a stronger cheese)
- 2 tomatoes
- 1/2 onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 500 ml tomato juice
- Sweet and spicy tomato sauce (one small bowl of 150 ml each)
- Salt, pepper, basil, oregano (to taste)

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast and mix it with 125 g of warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This step is essential to check if the yeast is active.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In another bowl, combine 125 g of cold water, salt, sugar, and oil. Then, gradually add the flour, mixing with a spoon until everything is incorporated. Add the activated yeast and continue mixing. If necessary, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to achieve a smooth dough.

3. Kneading the dough:
Transfer the dough to a work surface and knead it for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Let it rest for 1-2 hours in a warm place, covered with a damp towel. The dough will rise and become fluffy.

4. Preparing the baking tray:
While the dough rises, prepare a large baking tray. Grease it with oil and sprinkle a tablespoon of flour mixed with a tablespoon of cornmeal. This trick will give the crust a crunchy texture at the bottom, similar to pizza from pizzerias.

5. Assembling the pizza:
After the dough has risen, roll it out directly into the prepared tray. It should be evenly distributed over the entire surface. Spread the crust with tomato juice, sprinkle with basil, oregano, and pepper. Then, add the toppings: diced boiled chicken, olives, mushrooms, sliced pork, onion rings, sliced bell pepper, and sliced tomatoes. If desired, you can also add pineapple pieces for a sweet-sour taste.

6. Baking the pizza:
Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 200°C). Place the tray in the oven and bake the pizza for 30 minutes. Halfway through, check if the crust is already browned. After 30 minutes, remove the pizza and add the grated cheese on top. Bake the pizza for another 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

7. Serving:
Once the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes, then cut it into slices. Serve it with a homemade tomato sauce flavored with basil and pepper, and a spicy sauce with a bit of paprika. This detail will add extra flavor and turn the pizza into a memorable culinary experience.

Useful Tips

- Ingredient substitutions: If you don't have all the topping ingredients, feel free to improvise! You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand (e.g., zucchini, hot peppers, or dill) or add different cheeses (feta or mozzarella).
- Sauce variations: Instead of tomato juice, you can use pesto sauce or a white sauce based on sour cream for a more gourmet version.
- Dough consistency: Each type of flour absorbs liquids differently, so add water gradually to achieve the desired consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken pizza is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken provides a rich source of protein, while vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. Whole wheat flour used for the crust can add fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the quantity. About 10 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I store the pizza?
The pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered in aluminum foil or in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crunchy texture.

3. What are the best topping combinations?
You can try various combinations, such as chicken with pineapple and bell pepper, or even vegetarian combinations with cheese, mushrooms, and olives.

Conclusion

This chicken pizza is more than just a dish; it is a true celebration of flavors, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and let your imagination soar. With each recipe, you will become more confident in your culinary skills. So invite friends and family to the table and enjoy a delicious pizza made with love!