Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza

This Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza is a flavorful, low-carb twist on a classic favorite, perfect for those seeking a healthy and nutrient-rich meal. By using a clever base of finely chopped broccoli and shredded chicken, you get a crispy, golden crust that provides a protein-packed foundation for your favorite toppings.

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Unlike traditional heavy doughs, this crust is light yet sturdy, holding a colorful array of fresh vegetables like red onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. It is a guilt-free way to indulge in pizza night while staying on track with your health goals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked broccoli florets, finely chopped (or pulsed in a food processor)
• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup sugar-free tomato sauce or pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano/basil)
• Optional: chili flakes, fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded chicken, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a sticky, uniform dough forms.

Step 3

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a 12-inch (30 cm) round or oval pizza crust, about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick.

Step 4

Bake the crust for 20 minutes until firm and golden brown.

Step 5

Remove the crust from the oven. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface.

Step 6

Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then layer on the onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach.

Step 7

Sprinkle with dried Italian herbs.

Step 8

Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chili flakes and/or fresh basil if desired.

Step 10

Slice and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure your chicken is finely shredded and your broccoli is very finely chopped. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat them in the oven to maintain the crust's firmness. Essential tools for this recipe include a food processor or sharp knife, a baking sheet with parchment paper, and a spatula.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting toppings with mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or grilled zucchini. To make a dairy-free version, simply replace the mozzarella and Parmesan with your favorite vegan cheese alternatives.

Serviervorschläge

This pizza is best served warm immediately after baking. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra pop of color and a touch of heat, making it a perfect centerpiece for a healthy family dinner.

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With 34g of protein and only 8g of carbohydrates per serving, this Broccoli Chicken Crust Pizza is a nutritious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. It is proof that eating healthy can still be incredibly delicious!

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the crust hold together without flour?

The combination of finely chopped broccoli, shredded chicken, egg, and shredded cheeses creates a natural binding structure. The egg acts as a binder while the cheeses melt and solidify during baking, creating a firm, sliceable crust that stays intact.

→ Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust mixture and shape it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake the crust completely, cool, and store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Add toppings and reheat when ready to serve.

→ How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Ensure you squeeze excess moisture from the chopped broccoli before mixing. Bake the crust alone for the full 20 minutes until firm and golden before adding toppings. Avoid overloading with watery vegetables, and consider pre-cooking moisture-rich toppings like mushrooms.

→ What other proteins work in the crust?

Cooked ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even canned salmon work well as alternatives. The key is using cooked, finely shredded protein that blends smoothly with the broccoli and cheese mixture while maintaining structural integrity.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. The complete pizza stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispness. The crust maintains its texture better than traditional cauliflower crusts due to the chicken content.

→ Can I freeze the prepared crusts?

Yes, bake the crusts completely, cool thoroughly, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before adding toppings and reheating. This makes busy weeknight dinners incredibly convenient.