Save Experience a delicious and guilt-free pizza night with this Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza. This low-carb and gluten-free alternative swaps traditional dough for a protein-packed base made from broccoli and shredded chicken, offering a nutrient-rich foundation for all your favorite toppings. It is a colorful, savory meal that provides a healthy twist on a classic comfort favorite without sacrificing flavor.
Save The combination of finely shredded chicken and broccoli creates a sturdy, flavorful crust that holds up beautifully under a blanket of melted mozzarella and fresh, vibrant vegetables. Topped with a savory sugar-free tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, this pizza is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
- For the Crust
- 2 cups cooked broccoli florets, finely chopped (or pulsed in a food processor)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Toppings
- ½ cup sugar-free tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano/basil)
- Optional: chili flakes, fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded chicken, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a sticky, uniform dough forms.
- Step 3
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a 12-inch (30 cm) round or oval pizza crust, about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick.
- Step 4
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes until firm and golden brown.
- Step 5
- Remove the crust from the oven. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface.
- Step 6
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then layer on the onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach.
- Step 7
- Sprinkle with dried Italian herbs.
- Step 8
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chili flakes and/or fresh basil if desired.
- Step 10
- Slice and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a food processor or a sharp knife to ensure the broccoli and chicken are very finely processed. This helps create a cohesive dough. Always use parchment paper to prevent the chicken-based crust from sticking to your baking sheet or pizza stone.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this recipe by substituting toppings with mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or grilled zucchini. For those following a dairy-free diet, simply use your favorite vegan cheese alternatives for both the crust and the toppings.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pizza warm, freshly sliced into wedges. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or can be enjoyed on its own. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to maintain the best texture.
Save Whether you are looking for a low-carb alternative or just want to pack more vegetables into your diet, this Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza is a satisfying and nutritious choice for any day of the week.
Cooking Q&A
- → What makes this crust different from traditional pizza dough?
The crust combines cooked broccoli and shredded chicken instead of flour, creating a gluten-free, low-carb base that's rich in protein and fiber while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
- → Can I prepare the crust in advance?
Yes, you can bake the crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add toppings and reheat when ready to serve for best texture.
- → How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Ensure the broccoli is well-drained after cooking and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing. Also, bake the crust alone for 20 minutes before adding toppings to achieve a firm base.
- → What other toppings work well with this crust?
Mushrooms, artichoke hearts, grilled zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon all complement the savory base. Just keep vegetable toppings relatively thin to avoid overwhelming the delicate crust.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
The completed pizza stores well in the refrigerator for 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispness. The crust texture is best reheated in an oven rather than a microwave.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute both mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives. The crust will still bind properly due to the egg, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.