By Easy Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe (Low Carb High Protein Pizza)
A pizza night is a favorite in many homes. The melted cheese, warm sauce, and crispy edges make it hard to resist.
However, a traditional pizza crust is typically made with refined flour and loaded with carbs. For those who are trying to eat healthier, follow a low-carb diet, or get more protein, pizza often seems like something to avoid.
The good news is that you do not have to go without pizza altogether. This Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe changes regular dough with seasoned ground chicken. Thus, you get a pizza that’s low carb, gluten-free, and high in protein while still tasting like comfort food.
It’s fast enough for busy weeknights and filling enough for the entire family.
Quick question: What toppings would you put on your chicken crust pizza? Share your ideas in the comments, I always enjoy learning what everyone likes!
What Is Chicken Crust Pizza?
Chicken crust pizza is a tasty variant of traditional pizza. The main difference being that instead of a dough made with flour, the crust is prepared from the ground chicken combined with cheese, egg, and seasoning.
First, the blend is turned into a thin crust and baked. Then, after the addition of pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings, the pizza is baked again.
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Chicken crust pizza is a low-carb pizza in which the dough is replaced by chicken. The chicken is blended with cheese, egg, and spices before being formed into a crust and baked. Sauce, cheese, and toppings are layered on and the pizza is baked again to serve as a high-protein, gluten-free pizza option.
Besides, a lot of people like this pizza type because it is compatible with low-carb, keto, and high-protein diets.
Why Chicken Crust Pizza Is a Favorite Low Carb Option
One standard slice of a traditional pizza crust can have around 30-40 grams of carbohydrates.
A chicken crust pizza can reduce the carb count significantly since the base is made from a high-protein chicken source rather than flour.
Therefore, chicken crust pizza is an excellent choice for those who desire pizza without the excess carbs.
Quick tip: Besides, numerous individuals discover that a chicken crust pizza is more satiating since protein sustains one’s feeling of fullness for a longer time.
Is Chicken Crust Pizza a Good Choice for a Keto Diet?
Indeed, chicken crust pizza is inherently keto friendly.
The main ingredients used to make the crust include chicken, cheese, and egg that are not only low in carbs but also rich in protein.
There is a simple way to ensure that the whole dish remains keto friendly just check your pizza sauce label. Opting for a low-sugar or a keto marinara sauce is the way to maintain the keto friendliness of the recipe.
Ingredients for Chicken Crust Pizza
One great feature of this recipe is the simplicity of the ingredients list. Most of them can be found in the average kitchen without a problem.
Ingredients for the Chicken Pizza Crust
- Ground chicken 1 lb
- Shredded mozzarella ½ cup
- Parmesan cheese ¼ cup
- Egg 1
- Italian seasoning 1 tsp
- Garlic powder ½ tsp
- Salt and pepper to taste
With the above, you will have a crust which is tasty, solid, and easy to cut. In fact, ground chicken with a slightly lower fat content is a great way to get a firmer crust.
Healthy Pizza Topping Ideas
That’s where you have fun and experiment with what you like!
Some of the favorite choices are:
- shredded mozzarella
- turkey pepperoni
- mushrooms
- bell peppers
- olives
- spinach
- onions
The addition of vegetables is a wonderful way to increase your intake of fiber, flavor, and essential nutrients.
If you have little ones in the family, why not let them each put the toppings they want? It is a great way to make pizza night enjoyable and personalized.
How to Make Chicken Crust Pizza (Step-by-Step Recipe)
Overall, decorating and baking this pizza will take you around 30 minutes.
Step 1, Prepare the Chicken Crust Mixture
You will need to combine the following in a medium-sized bowl:
- ground chicken
- mozzarella cheese
- parmesan cheese
- egg
- Italian seasoning
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
Make sure all the components are mixed thoroughly and uniformly.
One way: to prevent the mixture from sticking while mixing, just dampen your hands slightly.
Step 2, Shape the Pizza Crust
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Form the chicken mixture into a thin pizza-sized circle about ¼ inch thick.
The thinner the crust, the better it cooks evenly and stays together nicely.
Step 3, Bake the Chicken Crust
First, set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it is firm and has a slight golden color.
There might be some liquid from the chicken. You can just drain it before placing the toppings.
This is a trick: Getting rid of the extra moisture will make the crust crunchy.
Step 4, Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the crust.
Put some shredded cheese and your favorite toppings on.
Don’t stuff your pizza with too many toppings. A lot of them could soften the crust.
Step 5, Bake Again Until Cheese Melts
Put the pizza back in the oven.
Heat it for another 8 to 10 minutes till the cheese melts and starts to bubble.
Take a moment to let the pizza sit for 3 to 5 minutes before you cut it. This is to let the crust firm up.
How Do You Make Chicken Pizza Crust Crispy?
The texture can change greatly with just a few simple methods.
Use Lean Ground Chicken
Using lean ground chicken is a good idea because it produces less fat. Since the crust gets less greasy, it will become firmer and might even be a little crispier.
Pre-Bake the Crust First
You should always cook the pizza base first before putting any topping.
Doing this step will get rid of extra moisture and make sure the pizza does not turn out soggy.
Avoid Too Many Wet Toppings
Some vegetables like mushrooms and tomatoes tend to release water when heated.
You may use less of them or cook them for a little while before using.
One way to do this is to use a paper towel to get rid of the water from the vegetables before putting them on the pizza.
Is Chicken Crust Pizza Healthy?
Chicken crust pizza is a more nutritious option than traditional pizza in many ways.
Most importantly, the crust is made of protein-rich chicken rather than flour only.
If you decide to give it a try, here are some of the things you may reap:
✔ Protein-rich food ✔ Reduced carb intake ✔ Gluten-free alternative ✔ Supporting keto diet needs
Protein levels in these kinds of dishes are generally in the range of 20, 30 grams per serving, depending on the amount of toppings.
For me, this is a perfect example of a recipe that gives you the best of both worlds: comfort foods and good nutrition.
Best Toppings for Chicken Crust Pizza
Choose your toppings wisely and this pizza will be the highlight of your evening.
High Protein Toppings
- grilled chicken
- turkey pepperoni
- lean ground beef
- extra mozzarella
By adding the above items, you will make your meal richer in proteins.
Healthy Vegetable Toppings
- bell peppers
- mushrooms
- spinach
- onions
- zucchini
You will simply complement the cuisine with some nice looking and healthy additions.
Low Carb Pizza Sauce Options
If you want to have a low-carb diet, make sure that the sauce you buy has no sugar added.
You can always go for:
- the good old marinara sauce
- tomato sauce you make at home
- pizza sauce made for keto diet
Common Mistakes When Making Chicken Crust Pizza
Simple recipes have their little hiccups.
Crust Too Thick
Thick crusts can remain doughy inside.
Don’t pile on the chicken mixture, the thinner the better.
Skipping the First Bake
Initial baking is that game changer.
If you leave out this step, the crust won’t hold together when you put on the toppings.
Too Much Sauce
Excess sauce increases moisture and loosens the crust.
A barely-there spread is the way to go.
Not Draining Excess Moisture
Chicken tends to let out quite a bit of liquid when cooking.
You want to get rid of that liquid to make sure your crust is crunchy.
Want More High Protein Recipes?
Do you like dishes like this one? Then, I want to share with you a valuable resource that I designed called:
“The High Protein Recipe Guide: 20 Easy Low Carb Meals for Busy Days.”
It’s got:
- tasty protein-packed breakfast ideas
- delicious low carb dinners
- healthy pizzas and alternatives to them
- snacks suitable for the keto diet
- meal prep ideas with protein
Planners, who always seem to be at their busiest, rely on it for quick weekly meals.
If you’re interested in my guide, just comment below or message me, and I’ll share the PDF with you within the next 24-48 hours.
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How Do You Make Chicken Crust Pizza at Home?
Combine ground chicken with a beaten egg, some cheese, and your favorite spices. Turn the mix into a thin crust on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a 400°F oven for about 15-20 mins. Add sauce and toppings and bake again until cheese is melted.
How Many Carbs Are in Chicken Crust Pizza?
A serving of chicken crust pizza typically has 2-4 grams of carbs, but of course that can change depending on what you use for sauce and toppings.
Can You Make Pizza Crust with Ground Chicken?
Of course. If you add egg and cheese to ground chicken you’ll get a nice crust that’s low in carbs and can serve as a substitute for classic pizza dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chicken crust pizza keto friendly?
Yes, chicken crust pizza happens to be one of those low-carb pizza options that fit perfectly within a keto and low-carb diet, especially because this crust is low in carbohydrates and high in protein.
How do you keep chicken crust pizza from falling apart?
Egg and cheese are the two ingredients that not only add flavor to the crust but also make the dough so compact and cohesive that it doesn’t lose its shape easily.
Can you make chicken crust pizza without cheese?
Yes, it’s possible. However, the cheese significantly adds to the flavor, texture, and structural integrity of the crust.
What sauce is best for chicken crust pizza?
The ideal sauce to keep this pizza recipe low carb would be a low-sugar pizza or marinara sauce.
How much protein does chicken crust pizza have?
A serving typically has 20-30 grams of protein, but that number can change based on the types of ingredients and toppings you use.
Recipes You May Also Like
Healthy, high-protein dishes also highly recommended include:
- Healthy High Protein Dinner Recipes
- Healthy One Pan Meals
- High-Protein Breakfast Recipes
- Easy Oven Baked Chicken Recipes
- Low Carb Meal Prep Ideas
Chicken crust pizza goes well with these recipes to make nice and balanced meals.
Final Thoughts
Many people find chicken crust pizza remarkably good.
Though you may think it is weird, once you taste it, you will realize it is yummy, filling, and even easy to make.
This is a perfect choice for those who prefer to eat pizza but want to cut down on carbs and increase protein intake.
And if more recipes of this kind interest you, remember the free guide.
Simply comment “The High Protein Recipe Guide: 20 Easy Low Carb Meals” and I will get it to you within 24-48 hours.
This could be the very recipe that marks the start of your next healthy pizza night.