If you’re craving something deliciously unique and just downright satisfying, you’ll fall head over heels for this Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe. Imagine golden, pillowy crust smothered in luscious roasted garlic-infused cream sauce, topped with juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s the kind of pizza that makes you rethink takeout forever and transforms everyday ingredients into a pizza-night masterpiece!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe is in the simplicity of its fresh, flavorful components. Each ingredient is carefully chosen: from the soft, nutty flavor of roasted garlic to the creamy richness of cheese and chicken, every bite is layered with taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few pro tips for best results:
- Pizza dough (1 pound): Whether homemade or store-bought, good dough is the foundation of every great pizza—go for fresh if possible!
- Whole head garlic: Roasting a full head mellows its sharpness, infusing the sauce with a subtle, sweet flavor you can’t get from raw garlic.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, plus more): For roasting the garlic and brushing the crust, adds flavor and helps everything get golden.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Starts off the creamy base of your white sauce, adding richness to every bite.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to your pizza crust.
- Whole milk (3/4 cup): Gives the sauce a velvety texture—using whole milk brings out the creamiest result.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a salty, umami depth that pairs beautifully with the mild mozzarella.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) & Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Simple seasonings that wake up all the flavors in your sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that gives the pizza its classic “pizzeria” flavor.
- Cooked chicken breast (1 1/2 cups, shredded or chopped): Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for ultimate convenience and juicy texture.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): For that irresistible cheesy pull in every bite.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced, optional): Thin slices add sweet, sharp crunch—totally optional but highly recommended!
- Fresh parsley or basil (1 tablespoon, chopped): A sprinkle of green on top adds freshness and a pop of color to finish your masterpiece.
How to Make Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by slicing the very top off your head of garlic until the cloves are just visible. Drizzle the exposed garlic with a bit of olive oil, wrap the whole thing in foil, and roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes. When it’s done, your kitchen will smell heavenly and the cloves will be soft, sweet, and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes, then squeeze the roasted cloves into a small bowl and mash them into a flavorful paste.
Step 2: Make the Roasted Garlic White Sauce
While the garlic is roasting, set a small saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to make a quick roux—let it cook for about a minute so there’s no raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens up, about 2–3 minutes. Add the Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth. Finally, stir in your mashed roasted garlic, blending it into every swirl of sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Increase the oven temperature to 475°F (245°C) for perfect pizza baking. Roll your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured counter, aiming for a slightly thicker edge for that classic pizzeria look. Carefully transfer your dough to a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet (or, for extra crunch, a preheated pizza stone).
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread your dreamy roasted garlic white sauce all over the dough, leaving about an inch bare around the edges for a golden crust. Top evenly with the shredded or chopped chicken breast, then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella overtop. If you love a little bite, scatter thin red onion slices across the pizza. Finally, brush the edges of the crust with olive oil for a glossy finish.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish
Bake the pizza for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly with little browned spots. Once out of the oven, shower your masterpiece with plenty of chopped fresh parsley or basil. Slice it up and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
How to Serve Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates your Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe quite like a finishing touch of brightness—think freshly chopped parsley or basil for color and fragrance, and even a grating of extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. For a little fiery flair, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add gentle heat and complement the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This pizza shines as the main event, but pairing it with the right sides rounds out the meal. A crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette balances the richness, or serve with a simple tomato-cucumber salad for a summer twist. If you want something cozy, roasted vegetables or a bowl of minestrone soup make delicious partners.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to really wow your friends or family? Slice the pizza into slim strips for easy dipping at parties, or serve on a wooden board scattered with fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side. Mini personal-sized pizzas make a fun, interactive meal, or you can even bake the Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe as flatbread for an appetizer platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any pizza left, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days—the crust will soften a bit, but the flavors only get deeper and more irresistible!
Freezing
To freeze the Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe, allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap slices or the whole pizza in plastic wrap and foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your pizza in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melty and the crust regains its texture. A hot skillet can also reinvigorate leftover slices beautifully, giving them a little extra crunch. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough works great and is a real time-saver. Just let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling so it’s easier to shape and gets a better rise in the oven.
What’s the best chicken to use for Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is a superstar here—it’s juicy, full of flavor, and shreds easily. Leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs work perfectly too, and you can even season them with a little Italian spice blend for extra flavor.
Can I make the roasted garlic sauce in advance?
Definitely! The sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just warm it up gently on the stove while whisking before assembling your pizza.
Is there a gluten-free option for this pizza recipe?
You bet! Just use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough, and swap the flour in the sauce for a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the ingredients remain the same and just as delicious.
How do I keep the crust crisp and not soggy?
For a crisp crust, be sure to bake your pizza at a high temperature (475°F), use a preheated pizza stone if you have one, and avoid overloading with sauce or toppings. Brushing the edges with olive oil also helps keep things beautifully crisp and golden.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to spark up pizza night with something new, the Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza Recipe is guaranteed to win hearts and appetites. It’s cozy, flavorful, and a pure crowd-pleaser—so roll up your sleeves and give it a try. Your homemade pizza dreams have officially come true!
