Craving pizza but trying to stick to a low-carb lifestyle? Look no further than the chicken crust pizza! This innovative recipe replaces the traditional flour-based crust with a protein-packed, low-carb alternative made from seasoned ground chicken. It's a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy your favorite pizza toppings without the guilt.
What is Chicken Crust Pizza?
Chicken crust pizza is a high-protein, low-carb twist on classic pizza. Instead of a traditional dough crust, it uses a base made from ground chicken, eggs, and cheese. This makes it an excellent option for those following a ketogenic, low-carb, or gluten-free diet.
Why Choose Chicken Crust Pizza?
- Low Carb Goodness: The crust is completely flour-free, making it a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
- High in Protein: With chicken as the main ingredient, this pizza is packed with protein, helping you feel full and satisfied.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Customizable: You can top your chicken crust pizza with any of your favorite pizza toppings, allowing for endless flavor combinations.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Chicken crust pizzas hold up well and stay firm, even after a few days in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients for Chicken Crust Pizza
The basic chicken crust pizza recipe requires just a few simple ingredients:
- Ground chicken (or canned chicken)
- Eggs
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella cheese (optional, for the crust)
- Seasonings (such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper)
How to Make Chicken Crust Pizza
Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own chicken crust pizza:
Preparing the Chicken Crust
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, eggs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. If using canned chicken, thoroughly drain it, getting as much moisture out as possible. For a smoother, more cohesive dough with shredded chicken, blend it in a food processor with eggs, parmesan, and seasonings.
- Press the crust: Transfer the chicken mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press it into a thin, even circle or rectangle. A thinner crust crisps up better and ensures everything cooks evenly. Using parchment paper on top and a rolling pin can make this easier.
- Bake the crust: Pop it in the oven for 25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
- Let it rest: Give the crust at least 5 minutes to cool after baking before adding sauce and toppings.
Adding Toppings and Finishing the Pizza
- Turn up the heat: Crank the oven up to 425°F (220°C).
- Add your favorite toppings: Top with your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and other toppings. For a keto-friendly option, consider using pesto sauce or a sugar-free pizza sauce.
- Bake again: Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the toppings are heated through.
- Let it cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Crust Pizza
- Press the crust thin: A thinner crust will result in a crispier pizza.
- Don't overload with toppings: While this crust is sturdy, piling on too many wet ingredients can make it soggy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Dry out the chicken: If using canned chicken, dry it out in the oven for 5-10 minutes prior to assembling the rest of the ingredients. This helps to create a crispier crust. Spread chicken on a baking sheet lined with a silicon mat. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes to dry out the chicken.
- Consider adding a crust edge: With a spatula, press the edges of the crust in to create a ridge for the crust. This is beneficial is you're using toppings that may slide off (i.e. eggs).
Variations and Substitutions
- Chicken Type: Ground chicken generally works well because it can be handled and mixed easily, has a mild flavor, and provides structure to the dough. Canned chicken also works great and results in a less chicken-y flavor.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for the crust, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
- Seasonings: Customize the flavor of your crust with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
- Carnivore Diet: To make this pizza carnivore diet friendly, omit the sauce or use butter as a base and top with more cheese and your favorite meat toppings.
- Egg-Free: If you're sensitive to eggs, there are substitutions available online, but they may alter the texture of the crust.
- Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza: Combine ground chicken with steamed and drained broccoli florets for added nutrients and flavor.
Topping Ideas
The possibilities are endless when it comes to pizza toppings! Here are a few keto-friendly ideas:
Read also: Creamy Keto Ranch Chicken Recipe
- Meats: Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, cooked chicken, ham
- Cheeses: Mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, parmesan
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, spinach, olives, tomatoes (in moderation)
- Sauces: Sugar-free pizza sauce, pesto, alfredo sauce
Chicken Crust Pizza vs. Cauliflower Crust Pizza
When it comes to low-carb pizza options, chicken crust and cauliflower crust are two popular choices. Here's a comparison:
- Carbs: Chicken crust is naturally zero carb, while cauliflower crust may contain hidden carbs.
- Protein: Chicken crust is packed with protein, making it a more filling option.
- Texture: Chicken crust offers a sturdy, chewy bite that feels closer to real pizza, while cauliflower crust can be more delicate and crumbly.
- Ease of Preparation: Chicken crust is faster to make, requiring no pre-cooking or towel-wringing.
Storage and Reheating
- Reheating: For the best texture, warm the pizza in the oven at 425°F for about 10 minutes, or until hot. You can also reheat it in the microwave or air fryer, adjusting accordingly.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. You can also freeze the baked crusts for longer storage. Just thaw overnight in the fridge, load up your toppings, and bake.
Nutritional Information
The nutrition information provided is calculated based on industry-standard software and should be used as a general guide only. The information may vary depending on ingredient substitutions, cooking techniques, and individual serving sizes. It is the responsibility of the reader to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of the nutritional information provided.
A typical serving of chicken crust pizza (one quarter of the pizza) contains:
- Calories: Varies depending on toppings
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.8g net carbs (2g total carbs) for the crust alone.
- Protein: Approximately 28.4 grams
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thick or Underbaked Crust: If your crust is too thick or underbaked, it may turn out soft.
- Overloading with Toppings: Piling on too many wet ingredients can make the crust soggy.
- Not Drying Out the Chicken: If using canned chicken, failing to dry it out can result in a soggy crust.
Read also: Low-carb chicken nuggets recipe.
Read also: Chicken and Brown Rice: A Healthy Choice