There is something irresistibly satisfying about a pizza that is loaded with rich flavors yet surprisingly light on the palate. This Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe combines the sweetness of roasted garlic with tender chicken and fragrant herbs, all atop a creamy cheese base that makes every bite a joyous celebration. Whether you are hosting friends or craving a cozy homemade meal, this pizza promises an elegant yet homey experience that’s easy to make and impossible to forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and thoughtful, each playing a vital role in building the textures and layers of flavor in this pizza. From the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic to the fresh burst of herbs, the ingredients are simple but essential to crafting a spectacular pie.
- 1 ball of pizza dough: A sturdy foundation, whether store-bought or homemade, to hold all those beautiful toppings.
- 1 head of garlic: The star that becomes luscious and caramelized when roasted, giving the sauce its unforgettable depth.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the garlic as it roasts, plus a touch of golden gloss to your pizza crust.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Provides creamy smoothness that contrasts beautifully with the herbs and garlic.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, bubbly goodness that pulls every bite together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish that elevates the entire flavor profile.
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Tender protein that introduces a savory heartiness without overpowering the delicate garlic and herbs.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: A fragrant blend of oregano, thyme, and basil to infuse the pizza with classic Mediterranean aromas.
- Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish—adds a fresh, green pop of color and brightness on top.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances and balances all the flavors.
How to Make Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head just enough to expose the cloves, then drizzle with olive oil and wrap tightly in foil. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. Once cooled, mash the garlic into a smooth paste—this will be the creamy, sweet foundation for your pizza sauce, infusing it with a mellow depth that fresh garlic could never match.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Base
Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your preferred thickness. Transfer it carefully to a baking sheet or pizza stone. The dough acts like a blank canvas, ready to soak up the vibrant flavors from the toppings.
Step 3: Spread the Roasted Garlic Sauce
Mix the mashed roasted garlic with the ricotta cheese, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread this rich, luscious mixture evenly over the pizza base. This creamy spread will provide a subtle garlicky base that complements the chicken and herbs perfectly without ever overpowering.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the garlic-ricotta base. Then scatter your cooked chicken pieces evenly and lightly dust with the dried Italian herbs. These toppings are what make this pizza sing—moist, savory chicken paired with aromatic herbs for a balanced bite every time.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your pizza in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles beautifully. The aroma will be intoxicating, hinting at the delicious layers waiting inside.
Step 6: Final Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top. This final touch adds a lovely freshness that brightens the rich flavors and makes your pizza visually irresistible.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are your friends here. Parsley or basil clippings not only add vibrant color but also give a lively aroma and fresh contrast to the creamy cheeses and roasted garlic. A few red chili flakes can add excitement for those who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
Since this pizza is packed with flavor and protein, light sides work best. Consider a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple bowl of mixed greens. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw also complement the creamy and savory notes on the pizza beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe on a wooden pizza peel or rustic baking board for a casual feel. For entertaining, slice it into bite-sized squares or finger slices to encourage sharing and conversation. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for an elegant yet relaxed experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the cooled pizza slices in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza slices by wrapping each piece individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will keep up to 2 months without losing too much flavor or texture. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this pizza is in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to crisp the crust back up and warm the toppings thoroughly. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful chewy crust and melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked garlic instead of roasting it?
While pre-cooked garlic might seem like a time-saver, roasting garlic transforms it into a sweet, creamy paste that fresh or pre-cooked garlic simply cannot replicate. It’s worth the extra few minutes for that perfect mellow flavor.
What type of chicken works best for this pizza?
Cooked chicken breast works well because it stays tender and mild-flavored, but leftover roasted or grilled chicken pieces are fantastic too. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced evenly for consistent bites.
Is it possible to make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the regular pizza dough for your favorite gluten-free pizza crust. The toppings and flavors remain the same and just as delicious.
Can I add vegetables to the Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe?
Yes! Add sautéed spinach, thinly sliced mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers to personalize the pizza. Just be mindful not to overload it, so the crust bakes evenly.
How do I know when the pizza crust is done?
A golden-brown crust that feels firm and slightly crisp to the touch is your cue. If the cheese is bubbling and the edges are browned, you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy gourmet flavors with comforting homemade vibes. It invites you to savor the sweet creaminess of roasted garlic, the satisfying tenderness of chicken, and the fragrant touch of herbs in every bite. Give it a try for your next pizza night—you might just discover a new favorite to share with everyone you love.
Print
Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (including garlic roasting) + 12 minutes (pizza baking)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Roasted Garlic, Chicken & Herb White Pizza combines the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic with tender cooked chicken and a blend of creamy cheeses, topped with fragrant Italian herbs and fresh parsley or basil. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this homemade pizza delivers a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Roasted Garlic
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cheese & Toppings
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap tightly in foil, and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the garlic cloves are soft and caramelized.
- Prepare the Garlic Paste: Allow the roasted garlic to cool, then mash the cloves into a smooth paste using a fork or spoon.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking a crisp pizza crust.
- Prepare the Pizza Base: Roll out or stretch the pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone to your desired thickness.
- Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the roasted garlic paste over the surface of the dough as the base sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Dot the pizza with ricotta cheese, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
- Add the Toppings: Scatter the cooked chicken over the cheese and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, slice, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use a pizza stone if possible for a crispier crust.
- Ensure the garlic is fully roasted to avoid harsh raw garlic flavor.
- Homemade or store-bought pizza dough both work well for this recipe.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be used or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust dried herbs to suit your taste preferences.
