What makes the perfect weeknight dinner combination – is it the savory chicken, the sweetness of caramelized onions, or the freshness of juicy tomatoes on a homemade pizza. This easy recipe combines all three for a quick and delicious family favorite meal, try making it at home with simple ingredients like roasted chicken and fresh tomatoes, save this idea for your next weeknight dinner inspiration.

two pizzas with chicken, tomatoes and onions on them are shown side by side

Introduction

Imagine the perfect blend of savory chicken, fresh tomatoes, and caramelized onions, all atop a crispy pizza crust, served side by side for a feast that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This recipe for two pizzas with chicken, tomatoes, and onions is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. It’s about creating something that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve, using ingredients that are readily available and requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to inspire creativity and satisfy your cravings.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chicken, tomatoes, and onions provides a well-rounded flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, these ingredients are easy to find in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The steps to make these pizzas are straightforward and simple, making it a great option for weeknights or special occasions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is impressive and sure to please a crowd, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include pizza dough (homemade or store-bought), chicken breasts, fresh tomatoes, onions, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, you can also use garlic, basil, and oregano. Practical substitutions can be made for the chicken (such as using chicken thighs or vegetarian alternatives like eggplant or zucchini for a meat-free version) and for the cheese (using vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option). The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and the ability to adapt it to your dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using homemade pizza dough, let it rise according to your recipe. If using store-bought, follow the package instructions for thawing. For the toppings, chop the onions and tomatoes, and slice the chicken into thin strips. Measure out your olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you’re using.
2. Step 2: Cook the chicken in a pan with a bit of olive oil until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Set the chicken aside. In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, then sauté the chopped onions until they’re caramelized and golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
3. Step 3: Roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness and place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone that’s been sprinkled with cornmeal. Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the cooked chicken, caramelized onions, and tomatoes over the sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
4. Step 4: Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the pizzas for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Handy Tips

• When cooking the chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• For caramelizing the onions, cook them over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. This process can take about 20-25 minutes, but it’s worth the wait for the deep, sweet flavor it adds to the pizzas.
• Consider using a variety of tomatoes for different textures and flavors. Cherry tomatoes, for example, add a burst of juicy sweetness, while larger tomatoes provide a meatier texture.

Heat Control

When baking the pizzas, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the temperature and the pizzas’ progress. The ideal temperature is 425°F (220°C), and the baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the crust. Look for signs of doneness such as a golden brown crust, melted cheese, and the aroma of cooked bread and toppings. If you’re using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven before placing the pizza on it for an extra crispy crust.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the crispy pizza crust and the caramelized onions. To achieve a crispy crust, make sure the oven is preheated to the right temperature, and consider pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. For the onions, the key is cooking them slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark golden brown and crispy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a pizza peel or a piece of parchment paper to transfer the pizza to the oven. This can help prevent the crust from stretching or tearing.
• For an extra crispy crust, try docking the dough (pricking it with a fork) before topping and baking. This allows steam to escape and can help the crust cook more evenly.
• Keep your toppings balanced and not too heavy, as this can make the crust soggy. A good rule of thumb is to not overload the pizza, allowing each topping to shine without overwhelming the others.

Storage Tips

• Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy again.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the pizza. Assemble the pizza without baking, then freeze it. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• When storing leftover pizza, use an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for easy grab-and-go meals.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this pizza, perhaps for a dinner party or as a welcome gift, you can package it in a variety of ways. Consider using a pizza box or a rectangular gift box lined with paper or a decorative towel. You can also add a personal touch with a handwritten note or a small bottle of olive oil and herbs. For a more rustic look, wrap the pizza in parchment paper and twine, and include a side of marinara sauce or a green salad for a complete meal.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or some dried oregano for an Italian twist.
• Creative toppings: In addition to chicken, tomatoes, and onions, consider adding some olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken with roasted eggplant or zucchini. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pizza crust or substitute with a cauliflower crust.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your crust turns out soggy, it might be due to overloading the pizza with toppings or not baking it long enough. Try reducing the toppings or increasing the baking time.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have mozzarella cheese, you can substitute it with other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone. For the chicken, you can use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your pizza while it’s baking. If the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s done. If the crust is pale or the cheese isn’t melted, it might need a few more minutes in the oven.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Assemble the pizza, then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe uses a wheat-based pizza crust, which contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pizza crust or substituting with a cauliflower crust.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re making larger pizzas.

Conclusion

Making two pizzas with chicken, tomatoes, and onions is a fun and rewarding culinary adventure that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of savory flavors, crispy crust, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to make it your own, and enjoy the process of sharing a homemade meal with loved ones. Whether you’re a foodie, a busy parent, or just someone who loves good food, this recipe has something for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and bon appétit!