Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight
As the days get shorter and the evenings grow a little chillier, there’s something just magical about gathering around the dinner table with loved ones, sharing stories over a meal that warms not only your belly but your soul too. Today, I’m excited to share one of my go-to recipes for those cozy nights in: Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza! This mouthwatering dish is not just a crowd-pleaser but an easy weeknight dinner that will bring smiles to every face at the table.
I can still remember the first time I made this pizza. It was a chilly evening, and I had some leftover shredded chicken in the fridge. I craved something flavorful, spicy, and comforting. A little mix here, a sprinkle of cheese there, and before I knew it, my kitchen was filled with the heady aroma of smoky paprika and tangy jalapeños. Every bite made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, reminding me of cold nights spent with family laughing over home-cooked meals. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes!
- Family-Friendly: Even the picky eaters will dive into a slice of cheesy goodness loaded with flavor.
- Flavorful: The combination of spicy chicken, tangy pickled jalapeños, and smoky paprika creates a rainbow of flavors in every bite.
- Customizable: Whether you want it extra cheesy or like to load it with veggies, this pizza can easily adapt to your tastes.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Great for game days, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Everyone loves pizza!
What You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup pickled jalapeños
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delicious pizza!
- Preheat the oven according to the pizza crust instructions (typically 450°F/232°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
- Roll out the pizza crust on a floured surface, then place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Brush the crust with olive oil to encourage that gorgeous golden color.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the crust, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. The more, the merrier!
- Scatter the pickled jalapeños evenly on top of the cheese. This is where the magic happens!
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy every gooey, spicy bite!
Delicious Variations to Try
Every pizza night can be a new adventure! Here are a few fun twists you can try:
- BBQ Chicken and Bacon: Add some crispy turkey bacon on top for an extra indulgent touch.
- Veggie Delight: Load it up with bell peppers, red onions, and mushrooms for a hearty veggie pizza.
- Creamy Ranch Drizzle: Drizzle your favorite ranch dressing on top after baking for a creamy finish.
- Spicy Sweet: Add some pineapple chunks for a sweet and spicy contrast that balances the heat of the jalapeños.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: If you’re preparing for a busy week, you can mix the chicken and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. This meal will come together even faster!
- Ingredient Swaps: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even diced beef for a different spin. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
- Slicing Tips: Let the pizza cool for just a minute after baking; this will make slicing much easier.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Calories & Nutrition Details
Serving Size: 1 Slice
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 14g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 500mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the chicken mixture in advance, and assemble the pizza just before baking.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match the toppings based on your preferences.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- How long does it last? For best quality, consume leftovers within three days.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza has quickly become one of my favorite comfort foods, perfect for those chilly evenings when you feel like curling up with something warm and flavorful. It’s easy, fun to make, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Save this Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza to your dinner ideas board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking, my friends!
Spicy Chicken and Pickled Jalapeno Pizza
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup pickled jalapeños
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 each pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven according to the pizza crust instructions (typically 450°F/232°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
- Roll out the pizza crust on a floured surface, then place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Brush the crust with olive oil to encourage that gorgeous golden color.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the crust, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. The more, the merrier!
- Scatter the pickled jalapeños evenly on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy every gooey, spicy bite!
