Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Homemade Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful dish that brings the perfect blend of flavors and textures to your table. This recipe is ideal for pizza night or game day gatherings, promising to impress family and friends alike. With a spicy kick from buffalo sauce and the richness of four cheeses, this pizza will be a standout addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This homemade pizza is simple enough for beginners. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dish that rivals your favorite pizzeria.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce, seasoned chicken, and four types of cheese creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile Toppings: Feel free to customize your pizza! Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: With generous servings, this pizza is great for parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and rich cheeses, this pizza is hearty enough to serve as a main course.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza efficiently, gather the necessary tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for shaping your pizza dough evenly, ensuring a consistent crust every time.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your pizza to perfection while allowing heat circulation.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients without making a mess in your kitchen.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces and dry ingredients quickly and thoroughly.

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 and Toppings

• 1/2 C buffalo wing sauce
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp water
• 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 in a mixing bowl. Allow mixture to proof for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt. Once combined, add the yeast mixture followed by olive oil. Mix until dough comes together. You may knead by hand if necessary.

Step 3: Let it Rise

Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Allow to rise in a warm location for about one hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Slice chicken breast in half widthwise. In a small saucepan, add chicken along with spices and cover with chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until cooked through, then shred the chicken once done.

Step 5: Prepare Buffalo Sauce

In another small saucepan, add buffalo sauce over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water; then add it to the buffalo sauce. Whisk gently until thickened, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Slice Onions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Thinly slice red onions while waiting for the oven.

Step 7: Assemble Pizza

Lightly grease your baking sheet with olive oil. Shape dough into desired size on the sheet. Spread buffalo sauce over the dough before topping with Parmesan cheese, red onions, shredded chicken, blue cheese crumbles (optional), mozzarella, cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and ground black pepper.

Step 8: Bake Your Pizza

Bake in preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes or until crust reaches desired crispness.

Step 9: Serve

Serve warm topped with optional ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzle for extra flavor!

With this Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza recipe, you are set up for success at your next gathering or cozy night in! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pizza experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complements the spicy pizza.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta adds a tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
• Garden Salad: Simple greens topped with your favorite veggies provide a light and healthy option.

Add Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that brings a cool creaminess to balance the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For blue cheese lovers, this adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
• Spicy Aioli: A zesty garlic mayo can enhance the overall taste and add a unique twist.

Serve with Beverages

• Sparkling Water: The bubbles refresh your palate between bites of spicy pizza.
• Lemonade: A sweet and tangy drink that pairs well with the heat from the buffalo sauce.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea balances the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

To ensure your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cheeses and quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven: Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy crust.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Less is more; too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles; combinations like gouda or pepper jack can be fun!
• Let Dough Rest Properly: Allow dough to rise adequately for a light and airy crust.

Best Side Dishes for Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Pairing sides with your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter complements pizza beautifully.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for a tasty appetizer.
3. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Spicy cauliflower bites serve as an excellent vegetarian alternative to wings.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the richness of the pizza.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy flavors.
6. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies served with dip offer a crisp, healthy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to prepare your ingredients in advance can lead to a chaotic cooking experience. Take the time to chop, shred, and measure everything before you start assembling your pizza.

• Using Cold Water: If you use water that is too cold when activating the yeast, it may not proof correctly. Always heat your water to 115°F for optimal results.

• Overloading Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make your pizza soggy and difficult to cook evenly. Stick to a balanced amount of cheese and toppings for the best texture.

• Ignoring Dough Rise Time: Rushing the dough rise can result in a dense crust. Be patient and allow it to rise until it’s doubled in size, which typically takes about an hour.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking your pizza in a preheated oven ensures a crispy crust. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before placing your pizza inside.

• Forgetting Flavor Adjustments: Not tasting or adjusting spices in the chicken or sauce can lead to bland flavors. Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place pizza on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30-60 seconds. Use a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat with a lid for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza:

Can I use different cheeses?

You can absolutely customize the cheese! Feel free to substitute any cheeses you prefer or have on hand, such as gouda or provolone.

How spicy is the Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?

The spiciness largely depends on the buffalo wing sauce used. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works well as an alternative without compromising flavor.

How do I make gluten-free Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?

Simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking pizzas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner. With its customizable toppings and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own!