Chicken Pizza

Chicken pizza is a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines the intense flavors of fresh ingredients with the crispy texture of the dough, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Moreover, it is quite simple to make, even for those who are just starting their culinary journey. Let’s discover together how to prepare this savory pizza!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 600 g wheat flour (type 00 flour is ideal for pizza)
- 150-200 ml warm water
- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary (or fresh, for an even more intense flavor)

For the filling:
- 400 g chicken breast (skinless)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- salt to taste
- 200 g canned mushrooms or fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 100 g olives (black or green, according to preference)
- 2-3 fresh tomatoes, sliced
- 200 g tomato sauce (or pizza sauce)
- 300 g grated mozzarella (or cheddar cheese for a different flavor)

Brief History

Pizza is a dish with a fascinating history, having origins that date back to ancient times. Over the years, pizza has evolved from a simple flatbread topped with various ingredients to one of the most loved foods worldwide. Chicken pizza is a modern variant that combines healthy proteins with fresh vegetables, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tasty and nutritious dish.

Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the Yeast: Start by placing the dry yeast in a small bowl with 100 ml of warm water and a teaspoon of salt. Mix gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active.

2. Preparing the Flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour, then pour in the activated yeast, olive oil, and rosemary. These flavors will give the dough a wonderful taste.

3. Mixing the Ingredients: Start incorporating the flour into the yeast mixture, gradually adding the remaining warm water. You may not need all the water, so add it little by little until the dough begins to form.

4. Kneading the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step is essential as it helps develop the gluten, giving the dough a perfect texture.

5. Rising the Dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little olive oil, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Filling

1. Sautéing the Chicken: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into small pieces. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and sprinkle with salt to taste. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Let it cool slightly.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: If using fresh mushrooms, slice them thinly. The tomatoes can be cut into rounds, and the olives can be left whole or sliced, according to preference.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Preparing the Baking Tray: Preheat the oven to 200°C (medium heat). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Dividing the Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a work surface and divide it into two equal parts. If you prefer a large pizza, you can use all the dough for a single base.

3. Rolling Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll out each piece of dough into the desired shape, being careful not to make it too thin. Place the base in the prepared tray.

4. Adding the Ingredients: Start by spreading a layer of tomato sauce on the pizza base, followed by sliced tomatoes, sautéed chicken, mushrooms, olives, and finally, sprinkle grated mozzarella on top.

Baking the Pizza

1. Bake the Pizza: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the pizza bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are browned and the cheese melts beautifully.

2. Serving: Once the pizza is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can sprinkle some fresh basil or oregano on top for added flavor.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient Variations: You can customize the pizza to your liking. Replace the chicken with beef or ham, and add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra flavor.

- Dough: If you want to save time, you can use store-bought pizza dough. However, nothing compares to the aroma and texture of homemade dough!

- Recommended Drinks: Chicken pizza pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing pale lager. Additionally, freshly squeezed tomato juice can be a healthy and delicious choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta cheese, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor.

2. How can I store the pizza for later consumption?
Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for 2-3 days.

3. Is pizza healthy?
Pizza can be a healthy choice if you use fresh ingredients and control the amount of cheese and sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken pizza is more than just a meal; it is a cooking experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you serve it at a party or a special dinner, this pizza will surely impress everyone. Experiment with your favorite ingredients and customize the recipe to make it truly unique. Enjoy your meal!