Parmesan Pesto Chicken Breast Crust Pizza

Prep: 10 minCook: 15 min5 servingsmedium
Parmesan Pesto Chicken Breast Crust Pizza

Ground chicken breast mixed with mozzarella forms a sturdy, protein-rich crust baked until golden. Topped with basil pesto, shaved Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, and a balsamic glaze drizzle. Ready in under 30 minutes for a low-carb pizza alternative.

Ingredients

5 servings
  • 1 lb ground chicken breast
    ground turkey breast1:1poultry

    similar lean protein

  • 1 tsp Italian seasonings
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    fontina1:1dairydairy-free

    nuttier flavor

    Full guide →
  • 2 TB basil pesto
    sun-dried tomato pesto1:1condiment

    different herbaceous profile

    Full guide →
  • 1 oz Parmesan cheese, shaved
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup arugula
    fresh spinach1:1greens

    milder peppery bite

    Full guide →
  • 1 TB balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, Italian seasonings, and mozzarella cheese until just combined.

  3. 3

    Press chicken mixture into a 1/4-inch-thick circle on the prepared baking sheet.

  4. 4

    Bake until golden-brown and fully cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

  5. 5

    Top with a layer of pesto, shaved Parmesan, halved cherry tomatoes, and arugula.

  6. 6

    Drizzle balsamic glaze over pizza and serve.

Tips

Tip 1

Press the chicken mixture evenly to ensure uniform cooking and a stable crust.

Tip 2

Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Tip 3

Add toppings after baking to keep arugula fresh and prevent wilting.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead

Prepare and press the chicken crust mixture onto the baking sheet up to 4 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Serve With

Serve warm or at room temperature. Pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Overmix the chicken and cheese to avoid a tough, dense crust.

Watch

Press the crust thinner than 1/4 inch to avoid undercooked center.

Watch

Add arugula before baking to avoid excessive wilting and bitter flavor.

Watch

Skip checking internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness risk.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

mozzarella cheese
fontina1:1dairydairy-free

nuttier flavor

Full guide →

General Alternatives

ground chicken breast
ground turkey breast1:1poultry

similar lean protein

arugula
fresh spinach1:1greens

milder peppery bite

Full guide →
basil pesto
sun-dried tomato pesto1:1condiment

different herbaceous profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →