Get ready for a tasty treat with this Easy Grilled Pesto Pizza! It’s topped with fresh pesto, juicy chicken, and lots of gooey cheese. Yum!
I love how it’s quick to make, and grilling gives it that smoky flavor. Perfect for summer nights! Just toss it on the grill and enjoy the cheesy goodness with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough is super convenient! If you want to make it from scratch, go for a classic recipe. Gluten-free options are available too, which work just as well on the grill.
Basil Pesto: This brings great flavor. If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto works perfectly. For a nut-free version, you can blend fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and a little nutritional yeast.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s fast and flavorful. For a vegetarian option, swap in grilled veggies or chickpeas to keep it hearty.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini or button mushrooms. If you’re a fan of different textures, roasted red peppers or spinach could be tasty alternatives.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but a mix of cheeses like provolone or goat cheese could add great depth. If you prefer dairy-free options, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Do I Get a Crisp, Perfectly Grilled Crust?
The crust is key to this pizza! To achieve that nice crunch, follow these steps:
- Keep the grill at medium-high heat. Too low, and the pizza won’t cook well; too high, and it will burn.
- Brush the dough with oil to prevent it from sticking, and grill the first side until you see defined grill marks, about 2-3 minutes.
- When flipping, spread the pesto quickly so the dough doesn’t cool down too much. This helps the cheese melt evenly before the crust gets too dark.
- Cover the grill while cooking the toppings; it traps the heat for even cooking.
Letting it sit for a minute after grilling helps the cheese set a little, making it easier to slice. Enjoy your pizza!
Easy Grilled Pesto Pizza with Chicken and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 12 inches)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or fresh mozzarella slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza can be prepared in about 15 minutes if you have the dough ready, and it will take another 10-15 minutes to grill. So, in total, expect around 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill going by preheating it to medium-high heat, around 450°F (230°C). This allows the pizza to cook evenly and gives that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. This will be your pizza crust, and you want it to be nice and even!
3. Oil the Dough:
Lightly brush one side of the dough with olive oil. This helps it get golden brown and crispy on the grill.
4. Grill the First Side:
Carefully place the dough, oiled side down, right onto the preheated grill. Grill it for about 2-3 minutes until you see crisp grill marks. While it’s grilling, brush the top side with olive oil too.
5. Add the Pesto:
After flipping the dough, quickly spread the basil pesto evenly on the grilled side. This adds that delicious flavor!
6. Layer on the Toppings:
Now, it’s time to get creative! Evenly sprinkle the shredded chicken, sliced mushrooms, and tomato slices over the pesto. This makes the pizza wholesome and tasty.
7. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the toppings, and add dollops of ricotta cheese or slices of fresh mozzarella as well for extra creaminess.
8. Close the Grill Lid:
Close the grill lid and let the pizza cook for another 4-5 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt and the crust will turn a lovely golden brown!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the pizza from the grill. Add fresh basil leaves on top and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let it cool for a minute.
10. Slice and Enjoy:
Slice your pizza and serve hot! Each bite is bursting with flavor—enjoy your homemade grilled pesto pizza!
Gather your loved ones and dig in; this pizza will surely be a hit!
FAQs for Easy Grilled Pesto Pizza with Chicken and Cheese
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant! You can also opt for canned chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.
How Do I Keep Leftover Pizza Fresh?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through, but the oven will help keep the crust crispy.
Can I Make the Pizza Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza dough ahead of time! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to grill.
