Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! If you love pizza (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Roasted Garlic, Chicken, and Spinach White Pizza! This recipe was a happy accident that came about one evening when I had some leftover chicken, a couple of sad-looking bags of spinach, and a knack for roasting garlic that I just had to flex. And let me tell you, this pizza was born!
The creamy ricotta and the rich mozzarella combined with the roasted garlic is nothing short of magical. It’s like a flavor hug in every slice! Trust me, this has become a go-to dish in my house, especially when I need a quick yet satisfying meal that impresses friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens!
What’s in Roasted Garlic, Chicken and Spinach White Pizza?
Let’s break down the simple ingredients that come together to create this delicious masterpiece:
Pre-made pizza crust: You can’t go wrong with convenience! I love keeping a few store-bought crusts on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade crust is fantastic too.
Fresh spinach: This leafy green is not just for salads! It adds a vibrant color and a nutritious punch to the pizza. I usually go for the organic if I can find it; you know, just to keep it fresh.
Cooked chicken breast: Julie the Great has taught me that leftovers can become a star ingredient. Diced cooked chicken makes this pizza hearty and filling. It’s a fantastic way to use up that rotisserie chicken too!
Mozzarella cheese: The classic pizza cheese! It melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture we all love. You could go for a low-fat version if you prefer, but I say go big or go home when it comes to cheese!
Ricotta cheese: Ah, the secret weapon! It brings a creamy, luscious quality to that first bite. The contrast with the other ingredients is simply divine.
Garlic: Roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that’s absolutely heavenly. It’s less pungent than raw garlic and brings a lovely sweet taste that complements everything.
Red pepper flakes: An optional but highly recommended touch! A little heat never hurt anyone, right? Sprinkle it on for that kick!
Olive oil: Just a drizzle to sauté the spinach and get those flavors poppin’!
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way in the kitchen.
Fresh basil or parsley: For garnish, of course! A little fresh herb on top makes everything look fancy and bright.
Is Roasted Garlic, Chicken, and Spinach White Pizza Good for You?
You may be asking, “But is this pizza actually good for me, though?” Well, let’s break it down.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s also loaded with antioxidants, which is always a good thing!
Chicken: A lean protein that helps keep you full and satisfied, making this pizza not only delicious but also a great post-workout meal option!
Garlic: Known for its health benefits, garlic can help boost your immune system and lower blood pressure. Don’t shy away from this flavor superstar!
Now, I know that pizza isn’t exactly a salad, but this version has some pretty wholesome elements, especially if you keep an eye on the cheese (though why would we ever want to skimp on cheese?!).
What You’ll Need
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, roasted and minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 2-4 people, depending on how hungry everyone is and how many slices you can resist!
How to Make Roasted Garlic, Chicken and Spinach White Pizza?
Ready to whip up this tasty creation? Here’s how you do it:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Get it nice and toasty!
2. If you’re using a store-bought pizza crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking it slightly. This will help you achieve that perfect crispy base.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in those glorious chopped spinach leaves and sauté until wilting, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a small bowl, combine the minced roasted garlic with the ricotta cheese. Mix until you have a lovely creamy mixture.
5. Spread this ricotta-garlic goodness evenly across the prepared pizza crust as your delicious base.
6. Now, send the sautéed spinach onto the ricotta layer like it’s a fancy salad bar.
7. Sprinkle the diced cooked chicken on top, like confetti!
8. Finish it off with a healthy layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. For those who like a bit of heat, scatter the red pepper flakes over the top.
10. Pop that beautiful pizza into the oven and bake it for about 12-15 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
11. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a minute or two, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
12. Slice it up and serve warm!
Pizza Perfection Tips
*To punch up the flavor, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts along with the spinach!
*If you’re a fan of different cheeses, feel free to mix it up! A little feta or goat cheese can add a delightful tang.
*Leftovers? Don’t worry! This pizza reheats really well. Just toss a slice in the toaster oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste!
So there you have it; a delightful Roasted Garlic, Chicken, and Spinach White Pizza that’s sure to impress at dinner or game night! I can’t wait for you to try making this at home—I hope it becomes as big of a hit at your place as it is at mine. Have fun, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking! 🍕
