Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza: A Creamy and Flavorful Delight

Quick Benefits

Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza is a gourmet-style pizza with a creamy white sauce, juicy shredded chicken, and a blend of flavorful cheeses. This homemade pizza offers a delicious balance of rich, roasted garlic and fresh herbs, making it perfect for a cozy dinner, weekend treat, or a crowd-pleasing party dish. It’s easy to customize with extra toppings and can be made using store-bought or homemade pizza dough.

Essential Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering pizza, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 cloves roasted garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup skim milk
• 1/4 cup half and half
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set the oven to 450°F.
   • Prepare a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or grease and sprinkle with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the White Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Add minced roasted garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute until blended.
   • Slowly whisk in the skim milk and half and half, stirring in black pepper.
   • Continue cooking for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Spread the creamy white sauce evenly over the dough.
   • Top with shredded chicken, diced red onion, and Mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake the Pizza:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 17 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme, dried oregano, and fresh parsley.
   • Slice and serve immediately.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Chicken and cheese provide a good source of protein for muscle repair and satiety.
• Garlic’s Health Benefits: Roasted garlic has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Lower in Fat: Using skim milk and half and half instead of heavy cream keeps the sauce lighter.
• Customizable for Dietary Preferences: Swap regular flour for gluten-free flour or use whole wheat pizza dough for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza.
• Add a Side of Soup: Enjoy alongside a bowl of tomato basil soup for a comforting meal.
• Offer Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of marinara, garlic butter, or ranch for extra flavor.
• Spice It Up: Provide red pepper flakes or hot sauce for those who like a little heat.

Creative Variations

• Add More Veggies: Try spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
• Go Spicy: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with spicy honey.
• Try Different Cheeses: Swap Mozzarella for smoked Gouda, Fontina, or Gruyère.
• Make It a Flatbread: Use naan or pita bread instead of pizza dough for a quick alternative.
• Grill It: Cook on a pizza stone or grill for a smoky, crispy crust.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Pro Tips

• Use Pre-Roasted Garlic: Roast garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy use.
• Let the Dough Rest: Allow the pizza dough to come to room temperature before rolling for a better texture.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
• Broil for a Crispy Finish: Turn on the broiler for the last minute of baking for a bubbly, golden cheese layer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works great and saves time.

2. What’s the best way to roast garlic?
Cut off the top of a garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until soft.

3. Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store the sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before using.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.

5. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pizza dough and swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative in the sauce.

This Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful alternative to traditional red-sauce pizzas. With its crispy crust and delicious toppings, it’s sure to become a new favorite for pizza night!

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