This easy grilled pesto chicken pizza is bursting with flavor! Topped with juicy chicken, fresh pesto, and lots of melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist that cheesy goodness! I love making this pizza for a quick dinner. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all by yourself! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use pre-made dough for convenience or make your own from scratch. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pizza dough options that are readily available.
Pesto Sauce: Homemade pesto is great if you have fresh basil around. However, store-bought pesto works well too, especially on busy days. You can swap it with a sun-dried tomato spread for a different flavor.
Chicken: Grilled chicken breast gives a nice smoky flavor. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works perfectly too! For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with more veggies like spinach or artichokes.
Mushrooms: I used fresh mushrooms, but you could use any favorite veggie such as bell peppers or olives. If mushrooms aren’t your favorite, consider artichokes or zucchini instead.
Cheese: While mozzarella is ideal for that gooey texture, feel free to mix in some provolone or goat cheese for added flavor. Vegan cheese is an option too if you’re looking for dairy-free.
Basil: Fresh basil is best for that aromatic touch. If you don’t have fresh, a sprinkle of dried basil can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same punch!
How Do You Get the Pizza Dough Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling pizza can be tricky, but getting the dough just right is all about timing and temperature. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect crust:
- Preheat the grill until it’s hot—about 400°F (200°C)—to get nice grill marks.
- Roll the dough evenly for consistent cooking; thicker spots may remain doughy.
- Brush one side with oil before placing it on the grill. This helps the dough not stick and gives it a nice sear.
- Watch the cooking time! The first side takes just 2-3 minutes, so keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- When flipping, don’t overload with toppings right away. Add them after grilling one side to allow the bottom to set.
With these tips, your grilled pizza will come out delicious and perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Grilled Pesto Chicken Pizza with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade, enough for one 12-inch pizza)
- 1/3 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious grilled pizza takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and fun meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This is important so your pizza crust gets nice and crispy. Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel to prevent the dough from sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape—aim for about a 12-inch circle. Brush one side of the dough lightly with olive oil; this helps it grill beautifully.
3. Grill the Dough:
Carefully place the dough on the grill, oil side down. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the dough starts to firm up. This will be the base of your pizza.
4. Add Toppings:
Once the first side is grilled, flip the dough over and spread the pesto sauce evenly over the grilled side. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto. Then, layer on the cooked chicken, sliced mushrooms, and tomato slices. Season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finish Grilling:
Close the grill lid and continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure the cheese melts and the crust cooks through without burning.
6. Garnish and Serve:
When your pizza is done, carefully remove it from the grill. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and optional crushed red pepper flakes over the top for an extra kick. Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy grilled pesto chicken pizza with fresh toppings! It’s a perfect dish for any pizza lover! 🍕
FAQ for Easy Grilled Pesto Chicken Pizza with Cheese
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just follow the instructions on the package for optimal results.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto, you can substitute it with a sun-dried tomato spread, olive tapenade, or even a simple garlic and herb mix for a different flavor profile. Homemade pesto is also a fantastic option if you have fresh basil on hand!
How Long Will Leftover Pizza Last in the Fridge?
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quicker option.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! This pizza is very flexible. Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or Italian sausage. You can get creative with cheese as well—provolone or goat cheese can add a lovely twist!
