Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking
If you love a spicy kick as much as I do, this Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza is an absolute must-try. I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with leftover chicken and it turned into a flavor-packed delight that's perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. The combination of creamy ranch dressing, tangy buffalo sauce, and fresh toppings elevates it to a whole new level. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Creating this Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza came about when I was craving something a little spicy and utterly delicious. I love how easy it is to make when I have some chicken on hand. Combining the spiciness of the buffalo sauce with the creaminess of ranch dressing is a game-changer, and it really brings the flavors together.
Moreover, the flatbread base allows for crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the tender chicken and fresh toppings. This method not only ensures a delightful texture but also guarantees that it's ready in just about 25 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Spicy and tangy buffalo flavor combined with creamy ranch
- Crispy flatbread crust that contrasts perfectly with toppings
- Quick preparation time makes it a perfect weeknight meal
Mastering the Flatbread Base
Choosing the right flatbread or naan is essential for the best texture in your Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza. Opt for a thicker flatbread, which provides a sturdy base that can hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy. If using naan, I recommend toasting it lightly before adding your ingredients. This brief pre-bake helps achieve a crispy bottom that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ranch and savory buffalo chicken.
Should you find yourself without flatbread, don't fret! You can make your own quick flatbread using a simple mix of flour, water, and salt. Just combine 1 cup of flour with about 1/3 cup of water and a pinch of salt, knead it briefly, and roll out thinly. Cook on a skillet for about 2 minutes on each side until golden. This homemade version adds a delightful freshness to your pizza!
Flavor Pairings and Variations
The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing is a classic, but feel free to customize your flavors. For a sweeter kick, mix in a tablespoon of honey with the buffalo sauce. If you like it extra spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper on top before baking. These simple tweaks can enhance the flavor profile and elevate your pizza experience without much effort.
For those looking to make the dish lighter or plant-based, shredded tofu or chickpeas can serve as great chicken substitutes. Just marinate them in buffalo sauce before using. Additionally, swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese to cater to lactose intolerant or vegan guests while still enjoying the delicious flavor and melt.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your pizza:
For the Flatbread Pizza
- 1 large flatbread or naan
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
Feel free to customize the toppings to your taste!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious pizza:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix Chicken with Buffalo Sauce
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
Prepare the Base
Spread ranch dressing evenly over the flatbread or naan.
Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the ranch layer, followed by the mozzarella cheese, green onions, and celery.
Bake the Pizza
Place the flatbread pizza on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Slice and Serve
Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza!
Serve it hot for the best experience!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Pair with a cooling dip for balance.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain flavor and texture for up to 3 days. To ensure the flatbread doesn't become soggy, consider separating the toppings from the base during storage. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, which helps retain that crispy texture.
Freezing leftovers can be an excellent way to extend the life of your Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method preserves the flavors and keeps the cheese melty.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad to balance the rich flavors. A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, serving it alongside veggie sticks and additional ranch for dipping keeps in line with the theme and adds an interactive element to the meal.
Consider making mini versions for appetizers at your next gathering. Using smaller flatbread pieces allows guests to enjoy them as finger food. Simply adjust the amount of buffalo sauce and toppings accordingly. They're perfect for game day snacking or as party treats that pack a flavor punch without overwhelming your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen flatbread?
Yes, frozen flatbread works well. Just make sure to thaw it before spreading the toppings.
→ What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
You can use blue cheese dressing for a stronger flavor or a yogurt-based dressing for a healthier option.
→ Can I make this spicy buffalo chicken flatbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the toppings ahead of time, but it's best to bake it just before serving for freshness.
→ What else can I add to this pizza?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or swap the chicken for beef or tofu for variation.
Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza
If you love a spicy kick as much as I do, this Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza is an absolute must-try. I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with leftover chicken and it turned into a flavor-packed delight that's perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. The combination of creamy ranch dressing, tangy buffalo sauce, and fresh toppings elevates it to a whole new level. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Created by: Sophia
Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Flatbread Pizza
- 1 large flatbread or naan
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
Spread ranch dressing evenly over the flatbread or naan.
Sprinkle the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the ranch layer, followed by the mozzarella cheese, green onions, and celery.
Place the flatbread pizza on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Flatbread Pizza!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Pair with a cooling dip for balance.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g