Homemade thin crust Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a must-try for anyone seeking a thrilling and delicious meal. This pizza combines the richness of four types of cheese with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, making it perfect for game day or an exciting family dinner. The blend of flavors from seasoned shredded chicken and red onions elevates this dish, ensuring it will be a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce and four cheeses creates a unique taste that will excite your taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect even for novice cooks.
- Versatile Serving: Ideal for game nights, parties, or casual dinners, this pizza fits perfectly into any occasion.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make it truly your own.
- Perfectly Satisfying: The hearty ingredients provide a filling meal that leaves you satisfied without being overly heavy.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza, you’ll need some essential tools in the kitchen. These tools simplify the process and ensure great results every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading dough easy and consistent.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your pizza evenly.
- Whisk: Ensures that sauces blend smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
Homemade thin crust four cheese spicy buffalo chicken pizza with red onions and seasoned shredded chicken. A fun and super flavorful addition to any pizza night or game day menu!
For the Dough
- 1/2 C water (heated to 115°F)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 C all purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 boneless chicken breast (uncooked)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp celery seed
- 1 C chicken broth
For the Sauce
- 1/2 C buffalo wing sauce
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp water
For Toppings
- 1/4 C red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 C blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 C Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 1 C whole milk mozzarella (freshly shredded)
- 1/2 C extra sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 2-3 Tbsp green onions (chopped)
- ground black pepper
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for drizzling)
How to Make Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Heat water to 115°F. Combine water with yeast and sugar. Allow mixture to proof for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt. With mixer running, add yeast mixture followed by olive oil. Mix until dough just comes together. Knead by hand if necessary.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and allow it to rise in a warm location for roughly one hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Slice chicken breast in half widthwise. Add chicken and spices to a small saucepan. Cover with chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and shred chicken.
Step 5: Prepare Buffalo Sauce
In another small saucepan, heat buffalo sauce over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Add this mixture to the buffalo sauce while whisking gently until thickened.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Step 7: Assemble the Pizza
Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Shape dough into desired size and shape on the baking sheet. Spread buffalo sauce over dough, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, then top with red onion slices, shredded chicken, blue cheese crumbles, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, green onions, and black pepper.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until desired crispness is reached.
Step 9: Serve
Serve warm with optional ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzled on top.
Enjoy your homemade Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza!
How to Serve Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of buffalo chicken with a cheesy twist. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your pizza experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
- Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A cool and creamy dip that complements the spicy flavors of the pizza.
- Buffalo Sauce: For those who crave extra heat, serve additional buffalo sauce on the side.
Include Finger Foods
- Chicken Wings: Tossed in buffalo sauce or your favorite flavor, these are a great match for pizza.
- Vegetable Platter: Crunchy veggies like carrots and celery served with ranch dip add a healthy element.
Offer Drinks
- Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage that pairs well with spicy food.
- Craft Beer: An IPA or pale ale can complement the flavors of the buffalo chicken pizza nicely.
How to Perfect Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Making the perfect Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your pizza-making skills.
- Bold seasoning: Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to ensure rich flavor throughout.
- Fresh ingredients: Using freshly shredded cheeses enhances texture and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
- Proper dough rise: Allow the dough enough time to rise; this creates a light and airy crust.
- Oven temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F for optimal baking results.
- Layering technique: Layer the cheeses strategically; place sturdier cheeses like blue cheese and Parmesan on the bottom for better melting.
- Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your pizza while it bakes; ovens can vary, so adjust cooking time as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Side dishes can round out your meal and provide variety. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread infused with garlic butter; perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the pizza.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make a great appetizer.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned perfectly for dipping in sauces or enjoying on their own.
- Mozzarella Sticks: Cheesy goodness that pairs well with marinara sauce; irresistible finger food!
- Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit medley provides a refreshing contrast to spicy pizza flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish.
- Skipping the dough proofing: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to a dense crust. Always let it double in size for the best texture.
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
- Neglecting cheese variety: Sticking to only one type of cheese can make your pizza bland. Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Ignoring oven preheating: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven reaches 425°F before baking.
- Using too much sauce: Overloading on buffalo sauce can make the pizza soggy. Spread just enough to enhance flavor without overpowering the crust.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds to 1 minute, but expect a softer crust.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, covering with a lid to melt cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delicious blend of four types of cheese topped with spicy buffalo chicken, perfect for pizza nights or game days.
How do I customize my Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
You can customize this pizza by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or by adjusting the spice levels based on your preference.
Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Yes, using store-bought dough is an option if you’re short on time. Just follow the package instructions for preparation.
How do I ensure my pizza crust is crispy?
For a crispy crust, preheat your oven fully and avoid excessive moisture from toppings. Using a pizza stone can also help achieve that desired crispiness.
What should I serve with Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
This pizza pairs well with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing and side salads for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich flavors and customizable options make it perfect for family gatherings or casual nights at home. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or spice levels to make it your own!
Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Indulge in the ultimate flavor experience with our Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza. This homemade thin crust pizza features a delightful combination of four rich cheeses, savory shredded chicken, and a zesty buffalo sauce that brings just the right amount of heat. Perfect for game nights or casual family dinners, this pizza is customizable to suit your taste. With its crispy crust and mouthwatering toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 boneless chicken breast
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp celery seed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 cup whole milk mozzarella, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 2–3 tbsp green onions, chopped
- ground black pepper
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by mixing water with yeast and sugar; let it proof until bubbly.
- Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; mix until combined.
- Knead the dough briefly and let it rise in a greased bowl for about an hour.
- Cook chicken breast with spices in chicken broth until done; shred.
- Prepare buffalo sauce by heating and thickening with cornstarch mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Assemble pizza on a greased baking sheet with sauce and toppings.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Customize toppings to your liking—try adding vegetables or different cheeses. For extra crispiness, use a pizza stone if available.
