Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza Recipe
Ever thought about how simple ingredients can make a dish that everyone loves? The savory chicken bacon ranch pizza recipe is a perfect example. It combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. This mix turns a regular pizza night into a special event.
Whether you’re making dinner for your family or impressing friends, this guide has you covered. You’ll learn how to pick the best ingredients and follow easy steps. Get ready to take your pizza game to the next level!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Chicken bacon ranch pizza has become a favorite, loved for its mix of flavors. It combines smoky bacon, tender chicken, and tangy ranch dressing. This pizza adds a fun twist to the usual, making it perfect for any meal.
This pizza is special because you can make it your own. You can pick your cheese and dough, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. Sharing this pizza with family and friends makes any meal more enjoyable.
Making chicken bacon ranch pizza is easy, even for beginners. Bacon is key, adding a rich flavor to every bite. As we explore the recipe, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in America.
| Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Instant yeast | 1 packet |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Goat cheese | 1 small log |
| Ranch dressing | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Rotisserie chicken | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Bacon | 1/2 cup (cooked and chopped) |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup (sliced) |
| Parsley, chives, or scallions | For garnish |
Why Choose Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza?
The chicken bacon ranch pizza is a hit for many. It mixes flavors and textures in a way that pleases everyone. The crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch, all on top of melted cheese, make it a crowd-pleaser.
This pizza is perfect for busy weeknights. It cooks in under 20 minutes, making it quick and easy. Using leftover chicken adds flavor and saves money, making it a smart choice.
It’s also easy to customize. You can add spicy ranch, honey, or BBQ to suit your taste. Each slice has about 422 calories, 20g of protein, and 24g of fat.
For a crispy crust, use a pizza stone with parchment paper. The mix of bacon, chicken, ranch, and cheese is incredibly satisfying. Choosing this pizza means a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Making the perfect chicken bacon ranch pizza needs the right ingredients. Choosing quality ingredients makes the pizza taste great. Knowing what to use makes the process fun and easy.
Chicken: The Best Choices for Topping
Rotisserie chicken is a great choice for the chicken topping. It’s easy to use and tastes amazing. You can also use fresh chicken breast, seasoned to your liking.
Bacon: Essential for Flavor
Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor to the pizza. Eight slices of cooked bacon make every bite delicious. Using pre-cooked bacon makes it easier to prepare.
Ranch Dressing: Choosing Your Favorite
Ranch dressing is key to this recipe. Use ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons for creaminess and flavor. You can buy it or make your own for a special touch.
Cheese Options: Best Melting Choices
Cheese holds everything together and adds flavor. Mozzarella is a classic choice because it melts well. You can also try Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar for different tastes. Mixing cheeses can make the pizza even better.
| Ingredient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 cups |
| Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Yeast | 1 envelope (2 1/4 teaspoons) |
| Sugar | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Salt | ¾ teaspoon |
| Very warm water (120° to 130°F) | ⅔ cup |
| Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Ranch dressing | ⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons |
| Shredded rotisserie chicken | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Bacon (cooked and crumbled) | 8 slices |
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Get a 10×15 jelly roll pan ready. Drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder for extra taste.
Spread the pizza dough in the pan. Let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the dough rise and get the right texture.
Once the dough is ready, spread ranch dressing over it. Leave a small border for the crust. Add shredded chicken and crumbled bacon on top. You can also add thinly sliced red onion for more flavor.
Top it all with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and shredded cheddar cheese if you like. This adds richness to your pizza.
Bake the pizza in the oven for 10-12 minutes. It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a nice touch.
This easy chicken bacon ranch pizza recipe is a hit with everyone. It’s not only delicious but also fun to make. You can use store-bought or homemade ingredients, making it accessible to all.
Preparing the Pizza Dough
Making the perfect base for a simple chicken bacon ranch pizza is key. The pizza dough is the foundation for the tasty ingredients. Making homemade pizza dough from scratch is rewarding and only needs a few ingredients.
This dough can be adjusted to your liking, from thin to thick.
Making Homemade Pizza Dough from Scratch
To start, you’ll need flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. Use high-quality ingredients, especially Red Star All-Natural Active Dry Yeast. Mix the yeast with warm water and let it sit for five to ten minutes.
Then, mix this with flour, salt, and olive oil to form the dough.
Kneading the dough is crucial. It should become smooth and elastic. Kneading takes about 5 to 10 minutes. After kneading, let the dough rise in a warm place for one to two hours.
Once it has doubled in size, punch it down and roll it out to 12 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick.
This will give you about 1 pound of dough, ideal for a simple chicken bacon ranch pizza. The dough should be chewy, with a crusty outside and soft inside. You can also try whole wheat or no-yeast doughs, or use store-bought options like Trader Joe’s.
Before baking, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly coat a pizza pan or baking sheet with nonstick spray or olive oil. If using a pizza stone, place the crust on a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel. This prepares the surface for toppings and a perfect bake.
Building the Pizza: Layering Tips
To make the best chicken bacon ranch pizza, start with the dough. Stretch it to about 12 inches in diameter for a perfect crust. Drizzle ranch dressing over the dough to ensure every slice has a balanced flavor.
Then, sprinkle 8 oz of low moisture mozzarella cheese for a stretchy texture. Add cooked chicken breast, about 1/8 inch thick, for protein and texture. Top it with 10 slices of crispy bacon for extra savory flavor.
Add diced red onion for freshness. Next, layer more mozzarella cheese to cover the chicken and bacon. This helps the toppings blend together when baked. Place 12 halved cherry tomatoes in the cheese for color and taste.
Finish with 3 oz of feta crumbles and a pinch of Urban Slicer Pizza Mojo White Seasoning. This adds a unique twist. After baking, drizzle buttermilk ranch dressing and sprinkle fresh chives on top. This final touch makes the pizza even more delicious.
Baking Your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
To make a perfect chicken bacon ranch pizza, follow some key steps. First, heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature helps the crust cook well and the toppings mix for a tasty flavor. Using a pizza stone or a rimmed baking sheet makes the pizza even better.
When the oven is hot, put your pizza in and watch it for 10 to 15 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust to know it’s almost done. Check it at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
After baking, let the pizza rest for a bit before cutting. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to slice. Following these steps will make your pizza delicious every time, with great chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pizza crust | 1 large |
| Ranch dressing | ⅓ cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Cooked bacon (crumbled) | 5 slices |
| Chopped green onion | 2 tablespoons |
| Cooked chicken (chopped/shredded) | 2½ cups |
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Adding the right sides to your chicken bacon ranch pizza can make your meal better. Choosing sides that go well with pizza balances flavors and makes your meal more enjoyable. These tips will help you serve a delicious dinner for any event.
Complementary Sides and Salads
Adding different sides can make your pizza night even better. Here are some great options:
- Simple Caesar Salad: A classic choice that adds crispness and freshness.
- Salad with Homemade Buttermilk Ranch: This offers a flavorful twist that complements the ranch dressing on the pizza.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Perfect for dipping and satisfying for cheese lovers.
- Fresh fruit slices: A refreshing addition that balances the richness of the pizza.
Pairing Drinks with Your Pizza
The right drink can make your chicken bacon ranch pizza even better. Here are some drink pairing ideas:
- Soft drinks: Classic sodas or lemon-lime drinks provide a delightful contrast.
- Light beers: Options such as pilsners or lagers can complement the savory flavors.
- Wines: Pairing with a light white wine can add sophistication to the meal.
- Italian Ice: Serving this as a dessert can provide a sweet, refreshing end to your pizza night.
These sides and drinks not only make your meal better but also create a fun atmosphere. By choosing the right sides, your pizza night becomes a memorable event.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating leftover chicken bacon ranch pizza right can make it even better. Knowing how to store it keeps its taste and texture. Different ways to reheat it help it stay fresh and tasty.
How to Store Leftover Pizza
Storing leftover pizza correctly is key to keeping it fresh. Put it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
Before freezing, let the pizza cool down. This prevents the crust from getting soggy. For more tips on storing pizza, check out this useful guide.
Best Methods to Reheat Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
There are several ways to reheat chicken bacon ranch pizza to keep it crispy. Oven reheating works well: preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
For the microwave, cover the pizza with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Grilling at 400°F (204°C) for 5-7 minutes adds a smoky flavor.
You can also use a skillet. Add a bit of water and cover to melt the cheese without softening the crust. Each method offers a tasty way to enjoy leftover pizza.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Creativity has no limits when it comes to chicken bacon ranch pizza. This dish can be tailored to your liking and what you have on hand. Trying out new toppings and sauces can turn a classic into something special. This makes pizza night a gourmet event.
Introducing New Toppings
Think about adding different toppings to boost the flavor. You can use:
- Chopped Roma tomatoes for freshness
- Green onions added post-baking for a vibrant garnish
- Cooked and crumbled turkey bacon as a healthier alternative
- Diced chicken sautéed in bacon grease for an intensified bacon flavor
The type of cheese you choose is also key. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can add unique flavors. For a bigger pizza, try a 15″ x 10″ pan. Bake for about 20 minutes to get it just right.
Adjusting the Sauce: Alternatives to Ranch
Playing with the sauce is another way to get creative. Ranch dressing is great, but you can also use traditional tomato sauce. Adding an extra minced garlic clove to the ranch can make it even better. This lets you try different flavors while keeping the dish you love.
Why This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza Recipe is the Best
This chicken bacon ranch pizza recipe is a hit because of its amazing flavors. It has smoky bacon, tender chicken, creamy ranch, and melted cheese. It’s a meal that everyone loves, perfect for any event.
The homemade pizza dough makes a crust that’s crispy outside and soft inside. Adding freshly grated mozzarella or other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack makes it even better. This ensures a delicious, gooey experience with every bite.
This recipe is easy to customize, so you can add your favorite toppings. You can try caramelized onions, red bell peppers, or even hot honey. It’s a great choice for pizza nights, often served with Caesar salad, fresh fruit, or cheesy breadsticks.
It’s quick to make, needing just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it can be made gluten-free or vegan, making it accessible for everyone.
People love it whether it’s hot out of the oven or saved for later. It’s a favorite for making memories at gatherings.
Tips for Successful Homemade Pizza Nights
Hosting a homemade pizza night can be a fun experience for your family. Getting everyone involved in making the pizza is a great way to bond. It also makes the meal more enjoyable. Creating special traditions for your pizza nights can keep things exciting and encourage trying new things.
Involving the Family in Pizza Making
Getting the family involved in making pizza adds fun and creativity. Let each person choose their task, from picking toppings to mixing the dough. A stand mixer with a dough hook makes the dough smooth and easy to work with, even for kids.
Having everyone gather around to make their own pizzas makes it personal. It lets each person add their favorite toppings and sauces.
Setting Up a Pizza Night Tradition
Make pizza night a weekly tradition. You can have themed nights, like “Topping Challenge” or “Sauce Gauntlet.” These themes add excitement to your pizza nights.
Using a 14-inch pizza pan for each person means everyone can make their own pizza. This leads to a variety of tasty dinners.
To get a crispy crust, pre-bake the dough. High heat is key for a perfect crust and bubbly cheese. A pizza stone can help make the crust even crisper.
Encourage your family to try different toppings and sauces. This will help create special family pizza night traditions.
Consider having a leftover pizza night. You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. This reduces waste and encourages creativity in the kitchen.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| High Heat Cooking | Cook at high temperatures for a crispy crust and bubbly cheese. |
| Use a Pizza Stone | Preheat a pizza stone for an even crisper texture. |
| Pre-Bake the Dough | This prevents a soggy crust by ensuring the base is firm. |
| Customize Toppings | Encourage creativity with various sauces and toppings. |
| Weekly Tradition | Establish one night a week dedicated to pizza night. |
Final Thoughts on Your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza Experience
The chicken bacon ranch pizza is a joy for families. It uses store-bought dough and leftover chicken. This makes a quick dinner for four, ready in just 25 minutes.
The ranch sauce is creamy, thanks to heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan. It pairs well with crispy bacon and melted cheese. The mix of textures makes every bite a pleasure.
Making pizza together is fun for the whole family. Everyone can pick their toppings. This makes dinner a special time.
Being creative with the pizza keeps it exciting. Try new toppings or sauces. This way, it stays a favorite in your kitchen.
Conclusion
The chicken bacon ranch pizza recipe is a hit. It mixes creamy ranch, savory bacon, and tender chicken with melted cheeses. This creates a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Its appeal comes from the perfect mix of textures and flavors. It’s loved by all, whether at a casual get-together or a family dinner. This recipe is all about letting everyone add their own twist, making it a favorite for many.
Making this pizza is easy and fun. It’s like making a restaurant-quality dish at home. You can even use gluten-free or whole wheat dough for different tastes. Plus, it can be served hot from the oven or grilled, making it perfect for pizza fans.
Start your own chicken bacon ranch pizza adventure today. Share your own versions and enjoy it with a fresh salad and your favorite drink. With every bite, you’ll love the rich flavors and crispy, cheesy goodness.
