Indulge in Juicy Italian Chicken, Basil and Balsamic Pizza

This juicy Italian chicken basil pizza is a flavor sensation! It starts with a crispy homemade crust, layered with rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, juicy chicken and topped generously with fresh basil and tangy balsamic glaze. Each bite delivers an amazing medley of savory, sweet and herbal flavors. Making your own crust and topping it just the way you like is extremely satisfying. Let's dive into the details so you can enjoy this Italian-inspired pie!

Make the Pizza Crust from Scratch

For the best flavor and texture, take the time to make fresh pizza dough. Mix together flour, yeast, olive oil, salt and water. Knead until smooth. Let it proof until puffy. This allows flavors to develop.

Or Take Shortcuts with Storebought Dough

To save time, use a good quality fresh or frozen pizza dough from the grocery store bakery section.

Shape the Dough and Parbake

On a floured surface, roll or stretch the dough into a round pizza shape. Transfer to a pizza pan or baking sheet. Parbake the crust for 3-5 minutes to set before adding toppings.

Work the Dough Gently

Avoid overhandling the dough when shaping so it retains a tender, airy texture.

Spread on Savory Tomato Sauce

Use a ladle to spoon tomato sauce evenly over the hot parbaked crust. Leave about a 1/2 inch border. Good tomato flavor is essential for pizza sauce balance.

Spice It Up

Flavor your sauce with garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes. Go simple or bold.

Top with Cheese and Chicken

Cover the sauce generously with shredded whole milk or part-skim mozzarella. Then add bite-size pieces of cooked chicken breast over the cheese.

Brown the Chicken First

For extra flavor, sauté the chicken pieces first before topping the pizza.

Bake Until Hot and Bubbly

Return the topped pizza to the oven and bake at 450°F for 10-15 minutes until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Rotate the Pizza for Even Baking

About halfway through baking, turn the pizza around for evenly distributed heat and browning.

Finish with Fresh Basil and Balsamic

Remove hot pizza from the oven. Top with fresh basil leaves, then drizzle lightly with good quality thick balsamic glaze.

Slice and Devour!

Let the juicy Italian chicken basil pizza cool just briefly before slicing up and serving. Buon appetito!

5 Common Questions

What protein can be used instead of chicken?

Italian sausage, pepperoni, prosciutto, and shrimp all work great.

Is a pizza stone necessary?

No, you can bake the pizza directly on a metal baking sheet.

How long does assembled unbaked pizza last?

It will keep 1-2 days in the fridge. The crust may soften a bit.

Can I use pizza sauce from a jar?

Yes, quality jarred sauce can save time. Add herbs to elevate flavor.

Should I add pepperoni?

Of course! Pepperoni pairs perfectly with the chicken and basil.

In Summary

Making and topping your own juicy Italian chicken basil pizza is extremely rewarding. Feel free to make it your own with different toppings and sauce. No matter what, the flavors of savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, chicken, basil and balsamic marry for an insanely delicious pie!