Easy Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a mouthwatering fusion of two classic comfort foods: spicy Buffalo wings and cheesy pizza. It combines tender shredded chicken, tangy Buffalo sauce, creamy blue cheese, and a crispy crust for the perfect flavor-packed meal. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a weekend treat, this pizza is sure to impress with its bold, irresistible taste.

Why Choose Buffalo Chicken Pizza?

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is the perfect combination of two iconic comfort foods: Buffalo chicken wings and pizza. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Flavor Explosion: The spicy Buffalo sauce blends perfectly with the cool and creamy blue cheese, offering a flavorful kick that will awaken your taste buds.

• Protein-packed: With shredded chicken as the main protein source, this pizza offers a substantial amount of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

• Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice or add extra toppings to suit your preferences.

• Perfect for Game Days: The bold flavors of Buffalo chicken pizza make it a great option for football games, movie nights, or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Before we start assembling this delicious pizza, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that will bring this dish to life. Each element is crucial in creating a balanced, flavorful pie.

Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce is the backbone of this pizza, offering that spicy, tangy kick that defines the dish. You can’t go wrong with Frank’s RedHot—it’s a classic and delivers the perfect balance of heat and flavor. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can always opt for a hotter variety or adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is the hero of this pizza. It absorbs the Buffalo sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. You can cook the chicken using any method that works for you, such as baking, crockpot, or Instant Pot. No matter how you prepare it, the goal is to get perfectly cooked chicken that will be easy to shred.

Cheeses

For that creamy, cheesy base, we use a combination of mozzarella cheese and blue cheese:

• Mozzarella: The go-to pizza cheese for its gooey melt and mild flavor.

• Blue cheese: A bold, creamy addition that pairs perfectly with the spicy Buffalo sauce. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.

Vegetables

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a touch of sweetness and crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and the heat of the sauce.

• Green Onions: These bring a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that complements the Buffalo sauce and adds a pop of color.

• Celery (Optional): If you’re a fan of authentic Buffalo wings, you can add thinly sliced celery to the top of your pizza. This adds a nice crunch and is a great way to stay true to Buffalo wing traditions.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Let’s break down the steps to create your own Buffalo Chicken Pizza at home. With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll be able to serve up a delicious, homemade pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the upper third of the oven. This will ensure the pizza cooks evenly and the crust gets nice and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and chili powder. This mixture will give your shredded chicken a flavorful, spicy coating. Toss the cooked and shredded chicken in this sauce to ensure it’s well coated.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Dough

If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out into an 11×14-inch rectangle. If you’re short on time, store-bought dough works just as well. Place the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or dust the surface with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled blue cheese, then scatter thinly sliced red onions over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, sprinkle green onions on top for a fresh burst of flavor. If you’re using celery, you can either add it before baking or place it on top as a garnish once the pizza is out of the oven.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it into 12 pieces. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfecting Your Buffalo Chicken Pizza

To make sure your pizza turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Dough Choice: You can use whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier option, but regular pizza dough works just fine. If you’re in a rush, store-bought dough will still give you a tasty result.

• Shredding Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that’s a great shortcut! Just shred it and mix it with the Buffalo sauce for a quick pizza topping.

• Adjusting Spice: You can control the level of heat by adjusting the amount of Buffalo sauce used. For a milder pizza, start with less sauce and add more if needed.

• Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try using mozzarella, goat cheese, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

 

Serving Ideas for Buffalo Chicken Pizza

This pizza pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Here are a few ideas:

• Salads: A crisp Italian chopped salad or a simple Caesar salad works wonderfully to balance the heat from the pizza.

• Appetizers: Serve with mozzarella sticks or garlic bread for an indulgent treat.

• Dips: A creamy ranch dip or Greek yogurt ranch dip will complement the flavors of the pizza and help cool things down if the heat is too intense.

• Beverages: For drinks, go with a dry Riesling or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the cheese. A cold beer is also a fantastic match for the spiciness of the Buffalo sauce.

 

Customizing Your Buffalo Chicken Pizza

One of the best parts about Buffalo Chicken Pizza is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you want to ramp up the spice, add extra protein, or experiment with different cheeses, there are plenty of ways to make this pizza your own.

Adjust the Spice Level

The Buffalo sauce is what brings the heat to the pizza, but you can easily control the spice level. If you prefer a milder taste, use less Buffalo sauce or opt for a milder version. On the other hand, if you love intense heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or extra chili powder to the Buffalo sauce mixture for a real kick.

Add Extra Protein

While shredded chicken is the star of this pizza, feel free to add more protein options. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled chicken: If you want a heartier pizza, grilled chicken breast can be a great option. Simply slice it thin and toss it with the Buffalo sauce.

• Pulled pork: For a twist on the traditional Buffalo flavor, try substituting chicken with pulled pork for a smoky, tender alternative.

• Bacon: Add crumbled bacon on top of the pizza for an extra savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy sauce.

Experiment with Cheeses

While mozzarella and blue cheese are the classic choices, you can swap them for other cheeses based on your preferences:

• Goat cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, goat cheese provides a tangy and creamy alternative.

• Cheddar cheese: For a sharper flavor, you can add shredded cheddar or mix it with mozzarella for a richer, more decadent pizza.

• Pepper Jack: For an extra kick of heat and flavor, use Pepper Jack cheese in place of mozzarella for a spicy and melty topping.

Add More Veggies

While red onion adds a perfect bite to the pizza, you can add other vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture. Here are a few ideas:

• Bell peppers: Thinly sliced bell peppers add a sweet crunch that complements the spicy sauce.

• Mushrooms: Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor and chewy texture that pairs nicely with the spicy chicken.

• Spinach or arugula: For some leafy greens, throw a handful of spinach or arugula onto the pizza before baking or as a fresh topping afterward.

Top with Fresh Garnishes

After baking, don’t forget to finish your pizza with some fresh garnishes. Here are some ideas to take your pizza to the next level:

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that balances out the heat of the Buffalo sauce.

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon over the pizza adds a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken.

• Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Serve your pizza with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. It enhances the flavor and offers a cool contrast to the spicy heat.

 

Making Buffalo Chicken Pizza Ahead of Time

If you’re prepping for a busy week, you can easily make parts of the Buffalo Chicken Pizza ahead of time. Here’s how:

• Dough: You can prepare the pizza dough in advance and store it in the fridge. Let it rise overnight or freeze it for later use.

• Shredded Chicken: Cook and shred the chicken up to 1 day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the pizza.

• Buffalo Sauce: Make the Buffalo sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the chicken.

Storage and Reheating

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is great for leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat:

• To Store: Place leftover pizza in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• To Reheat: For the best results, reheat the pizza in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted again. You can also use a skillet on the stovetop to reheat slices, covering it with a lid to help melt the cheese.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Pizza

If you have leftovers or want to make a batch in advance, freezing works too! Here’s how:

• To Freeze: Allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• To Reheat from Frozen: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen pizza for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

Nutritional Information for Buffalo Chicken Pizza

When it comes to comfort food, Buffalo Chicken Pizza hits the sweet spot—deliciously cheesy, spicy, and satisfying. But how does it stack up nutritionally? Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients for one slice of Buffalo Chicken Pizza (assuming 12 slices per pizza):

Each slice of Buffalo Chicken Pizza delivers a solid amount of protein, making it a filling meal. With a crispy crust, tangy Buffalo sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a flavorful and balanced pizza that you can feel good about enjoying.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a fun and spicy dinner, this Buffalo Chicken Pizza is the answer. It combines the bold flavors of Buffalo wings with the comfort of pizza, resulting in a dish that’s easy to make and impossible to stop eating.

The best part? You can adjust the heat level, choose your favorite cheeses, and add extra toppings to make this pizza uniquely yours. It’s perfect for game days, weekend parties, or any time you crave something exciting yet comforting.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is versatile, too. You can make it ahead, freeze it, and even store leftovers for a quick snack. It’s a great option for anyone who loves a good balance of spice, cheese, and crispy crust.

Conclusion on Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a bold and exciting twist on traditional pizza that’s packed with flavor. With a delicious Buffalo sauce coating tender chicken, topped with gooey mozzarella and crumbled blue cheese, this pizza delivers everything you love about Buffalo wings in pizza form. Whether you prefer a mild heat or something spicier, this recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste.

So, next time you’re craving something spicy and savory, skip the takeout and whip up this homemade Buffalo Chicken Pizza instead. Your taste buds will thank you!

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • 1 cup Buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

• For the Pizza:

  • 8 ounces cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2 ½ – 3 cups)

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (or substitute with feta for a milder flavor)

  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

  • 1 Whole Wheat Pizza Dough (or store-bought pizza dough)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the oven rack in the upper third for an even bake.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and chili powder. Add the shredded chicken and toss until well coated.

3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to an 11×14-inch rectangle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Spread the Buffalo chicken mixture evenly on the dough, leaving a border for the crust.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, blue cheese, and red onion over the chicken mixture.

6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. After baking, top with green onions and serve.

Notes:

• For a spicier pizza, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the Buffalo sauce or top with fresh jalapeños.

• You can substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese or cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor.

• To make ahead, prepare the dough and chicken a day in advance. Refrigerate until ready to assemble and bake.

• You can freeze leftover pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, 1/12 of pizza):

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15-18 minutes

Total Time: 35-38 minutes

Method: Baking

Cuisine: American, Pizza

Servings: 12 slices

Calories: 155 kcal per slice

Yield: 1 pizza (12 slices)