This roasted garlic, chicken, and herb white pizza is a flavorful twist on traditional pizza, featuring a creamy white sauce, tender roasted chicken, and aromatic herbs. The roasted garlic adds a rich depth of flavor, making it a perfect choice for a gourmet pizza night.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Toppings
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting garlic)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in aluminum foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes until soft and caramelized. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic out of the skins and mash into a paste.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dough
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Transfer it to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread the roasted garlic paste evenly over the dough as the base. Dollop ricotta cheese across the pizza, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the cheese layer. Sprinkle with chopped basil, rosemary, and oregano. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for added heat.
Step 5: Bake
Carefully transfer the pizza to the hot oven or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
- Use a pizza stone or steel for a crispy crust.
- Experiment with additional toppings like caramelized onions or mushrooms for a personalized twist.
Conclusion
This roasted garlic, chicken, and herb white pizza is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. The creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs combine to create a delicious and unique pizza experience. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!