Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Homemade Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful twist on your favorite pizza, perfect for game day or any casual gathering. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and four varieties of cheese creates an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for another slice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this pizza in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheeses makes each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your pizza with extra veggies or different cheese types based on your preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game night, this pizza fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its spicy kick and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your pizza evenly while ensuring a crispy crust.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients effectively, making the dough preparation easy.
• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough; however, hand kneading works just as well.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly, especially sauces that need thickening.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1/2 C water (heated to 115°F)
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 C all purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

For the Chicken Filling

• 1 boneless chicken breast (uncooked)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp celery seed
• 1 C chicken broth

For the Sauce and Toppings

• 1/2 C buffalo wing sauce
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp water
• 1/4 C red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 C blue cheese crumbles
• 1/4 C Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 1 C whole milk mozzarella (freshly shredded)
• 1/2 C extra sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
• 2-3 Tbsp green onions (chopped)
• Ground black pepper
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for drizzling)

How to Make Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Heat water to 115°F. Combine water with yeast and sugar in a bowl. Allow mixture to proof for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture followed by olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together. Knead by hand if necessary. Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm location for about one hour until doubled in size.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast in half widthwise. Place it in a small saucepan along with spices and cover with chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove chicken from broth and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the saucepan and continue cooking until liquid has mostly evaporated.

Step 3: Make the Buffalo Sauce

In another small saucepan, heat buffalo sauce over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the buffalo sauce while whisking gently. Keep whisking until it thickens; then transfer it to a clean bowl and cover with plastic wrap.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Slice red onions thinly and set them aside. Lightly grease your baking sheet with olive oil. Shape the risen dough into your desired size on the sheet. Spread buffalo sauce over the dough evenly before sprinkling Parmesan cheese on top. Layer on red onion slices, shredded chicken, optional blue cheese crumbles, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of ground black pepper.

Step 5: Bake Your Creation

Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until you reach your desired crispness.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once done, remove from oven and serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzled on top if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza!

How to Serve Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your pizza experience.

Pair with Refreshing Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the spicy pizza perfectly.
• Greek Salad: Fresh vegetables paired with feta cheese and olives offer a tangy contrast to the buffalo flavor.
• Garden Salad: A mix of seasonal greens and veggies provides a light and refreshing balance.

Add Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing, ranch dressing adds a cool creaminess that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: Enhance the flavor with rich blue cheese dressing for an extra layer of taste.
• Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, a drizzle of extra hot sauce can take your pizza to another level.

Serve with Beverages

• Iced Tea: A sweet or unsweetened iced tea is refreshing and helps cut through the richness of the cheeses.
• Soda: Classic soda options like cola or lemon-lime provide a bubbly contrast to the savory flavors.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing and palate-cleansing.

How to Perfect Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

To achieve the best Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza, consider these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavoring: Marinate your chicken in buffalo sauce before cooking for an extra kick of flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for freshly shredded cheeses; they melt better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes; every oven varies and you want it golden brown without burning.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like jalapeños or bell peppers for added flavor and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Complement your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting touch to your meal.
2. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites echo the buffalo flavors of the pizza while adding a veggie twist.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast to the soft pizza and enhances its overall flavor profile.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the pizza.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or herbs make for a tasty finger food option.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates a flavorful appetizer that pairs well with pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Dough Proofing: Not allowing the yeast dough to proof can lead to a dense crust. Always let it rise until it doubles in size for the best texture.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out, making it tough. Cook just until no longer pink, and shred it for better incorporation into the pizza.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Adding excessive buffalo sauce can make the pizza soggy. Use just enough to coat the dough without overwhelming it.
• Neglecting Cheese Quantity: Skimping on cheese will result in a less flavorful pizza. Use generous amounts of all four cheeses for a rich flavor profile.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at too low of a temperature will yield a chewy crust instead of crispy. Ensure your oven is preheated to 425°F for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza:

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina alongside the four you already have.

How do I make the crust gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What sides pair well with Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza?

Serve with fresh salad, garlic bread, or vegetable sticks to complement the meal.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Add your favorite vegetables or substitute chicken with turkey or beef if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Four Cheese Buffalo Chicken Pizza is not only delicious but also highly customizable. It’s perfect for game nights or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or sauces based on your preferences!