Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza
When you’re craving bold, exciting flavors in every bite, few recipes can compete with Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza. This recipe takes the comfort of homemade pizza and gives it a fiery, savory twist with tender marinated chicken, zesty chili garlic sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami, all layered onto a golden, crispy crust.
Whether you make your own dough from scratch or take a shortcut with store-bought, this pizza delivers big flavor with surprisingly little effort. Ideal for pizza night, game-day gatherings, or anytime you want to impress, this recipe guarantees an unforgettable dinner.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (105–115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing)
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to spice preference)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pizza
- 1 cup chili garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together olive oil, garlic, chilies, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper. Add chicken cubes, toss to coat, cover, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes until fully cooked and caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Set aside.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a pizza stone inside while preheating if using. Punch down the dough, then divide in half. Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread chili garlic sauce over the surface, leaving a border for the crust. Add mozzarella and provolone, then top with cooked chicken.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pizza onto the hot stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake 12–15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Slice and serve hot. Repeat with the second dough portion.
About the Recipe
Why You’ll Love It
Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza is not your average pizza—it’s a bold fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and classic Italian comfort. The marinated chicken bursts with garlic, soy, and chili heat, while honey and sesame oil balance the spice with sweetness and depth. Add melty cheese and a chewy crust, and you’ve got a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for tofu, tempeh, or a medley of mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms make great additions.
- Make It Spicier: Add extra chilies or a drizzle of sriracha before baking.
Helpful Tips
- Control the heat by adjusting chilies and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate ahead of time for deeper flavor—overnight works beautifully.
- Don’t overload toppings—too much can make the crust soggy.
- Use a pizza stone if possible for a crisp, golden bottom crust.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs wonderfully with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
- A refreshing cold drink like lemonade or a light beer to balance the spice.
Nutrition Insights
Each slice of Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza offers a balance of protein from the chicken, carbs from the crust, and healthy fats from olive and sesame oil. The chilies and garlic provide antioxidants, while spinach or added veggies can increase the nutrient value further.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the dough rise: Rushing this step leads to a dense crust.
- Overcooking chicken: It can dry out—cook just until done.
- Adding toppings too early: Always bake at high heat for a crisp crust and gooey cheese.
Conclusion
If you love bold, fiery flavors, Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza will quickly become a favorite. With its tender marinated chicken, zesty chili garlic sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a pizza night upgrade that feels both fun and gourmet. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this pizza is sure to disappear fast.
Give it a try, and let your taste buds enjoy the ultimate flavor explosion!
