There’s something magical about a homemade pizza: the bubbling cheese, the golden crust, and the mouthwatering aroma of fresh herbs and spices. This Chicken Pizza with Lots of Cheese and Herbs is a delicious, satisfying twist on the classic — featuring tender seasoned chicken, layers of gooey cheese, and a generous sprinkling of fragrant herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a pizza night with friends, this recipe brings bold flavor and gourmet style to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Cheesy and comforting
✅ Loaded with flavor from garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme
✅ Customizable with your favorite toppings
✅ Perfectly balanced between hearty and herby
✅ Great for leftovers or meal prep
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough (or use store-bought):
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
For the Chicken Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup tomato pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- A pinch of chili flakes (optional)
For the Cheese and Herbs:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Mixing bowls
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Pastry brush
- Oven mitts
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and olive oil.
- Knead for about 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Shortcut: Use store-bought pizza dough for a faster option.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet.
- Add the shredded or diced chicken.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through and infuse flavor. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll and Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now.
- Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle or rectangle, depending on your pan.
- Transfer dough to a lightly greased baking sheet or preheated stone.
- Brush the dough with olive oil.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Evenly distribute the seasoned chicken.
- Top with cheddar or provolone cheese and grated Parmesan.
- Sprinkle with dried oregano, basil, and optional chili flakes.
- Add fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) just before baking or after if you prefer them fresh.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Let the pizza rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Slice with a pizza cutter and serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of more fresh herbs.
Tips for Success
- Preheat your oven well for a crispy crust. A pizza stone will help distribute heat evenly.
- Use freshly shredded cheese – it melts better than pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t overload with sauce or toppings — it can make the crust soggy.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for spice or honey drizzle for a sweet contrast.
Recipe Variations
🔥 Spicy Chicken Pizza
Add sliced jalapeños or use spicy buffalo sauce as a base.
🧄 Garlic Lovers’ Version
Brush the crust with garlic butter before baking and add minced garlic to the sauce.
🧀 Four Cheese Chicken Pizza
Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, gouda, and Parmesan for a rich cheese pull.
🌿 Mediterranean Twist
Top with black olives, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese after baking.
Make It Fit Your Diet
- Low-carb: Use a cauliflower or almond flour pizza crust.
- Gluten-free: Opt for a gluten-free dough or pre-made base.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based cheese and check your pizza sauce for dairy additives.
- Keto-friendly: Use sugar-free sauce and a keto crust alternative.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat on medium-low with a lid for a crispy crust.
- Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great time-saver. Just shred and season it before adding to the pizza.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Pizza dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I grill this pizza?
Yes, grill the dough on one side, flip, and then add toppings to the cooked side before grilling until cheese is melted.
Conclusion
This Chicken Pizza with Lots of Cheese and Herbs is the perfect balance of savory, gooey, and aromatic. It’s easy to make at home, even easier to customize, and guaranteed to satisfy every pizza lover’s craving. Whether it’s a Friday night treat or a casual dinner, this cheesy chicken delight will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
