Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe
Bold, fiery, and irresistibly cheesy—this Buffalo Chicken Pizza is the perfect fusion of heat and comfort. It delivers the crave-worthy flavor of buffalo wings in a crispy, cheesy pizza format that’s sure to wow your taste buds.
Juicy shredded chicken is tossed in tangy buffalo sauce and layered over a bed of melted mozzarella, sharp onions, and zesty banana peppers. A drizzle of creamy blue cheese or ranch ties it all together with a cooling finish.
Finished with a golden, garlic butter Parmesan crust and fresh garnishes, every slice is packed with spicy, savory depth. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game day, pizza night, or anytime you’re craving bold, satisfying flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza Ingredients: A Flavor-Packed Foundation
Pizza Dough
The chewy, golden base that supports every bold bite—crisp on the outside, tender within, and ready to carry layers of flavor.
Cooked Chicken
Shredded and juicy, this protein-rich centerpiece absorbs the buffalo sauce for a spicy, savory punch in every mouthful.
Buffalo Sauce
The fiery heartbeat of the pizza—bold, tangy, and unapologetically zesty, it infuses the dish with signature heat.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melted to perfection, this creamy blanket brings cohesion and richness, balancing the spice with smooth indulgence.
Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing
A cool, creamy counterpoint to the heat—drizzled on top, it adds depth, contrast, and unmistakable flavor.
Red Onions
Thinly sliced for a subtle crunch and a hint of sweetness that cuts through the richness with sharp clarity.
Banana Pepper Rings
Bright, tangy bursts that add texture and zing, enhancing the flavor dynamics without overwhelming the palate.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Bold, cheesy, and packed with fiery flavor, this Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a game-changer for spicy food lovers and pizza fans alike. With tender chicken drenched in buffalo sauce, melty mozzarella, and a rich swirl of blue cheese or ranch, it offers the perfect harmony of heat and creaminess. A buttery garlic Parmesan crust brings it all home with a savory crunch. Whether it’s game day, a Friday night, or just a craving for something bold, this pizza delivers every time.
Recipe Tips
1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Maximum Flavor and Ease
If you’re short on time, opt for store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already seasoned and incredibly tender, making it a perfect match for buffalo sauce. Shredding it while warm allows it to better absorb the sauce, resulting in deeper flavor and moisture throughout the bake.
2. Don’t Skip the Crust Finish
The garlic butter Parmesan crust isn’t just a final flourish—it’s a game-changing detail. Brushing the crust with a mix of melted butter, grated Parmesan, and garlic powder adds depth, aroma, and a beautiful golden hue. That extra 2–3 minutes in the oven ensures the crust is crisp yet indulgently rich.
3. Balance the Heat
Buffalo sauce brings the heat, but the level of spice can vary by brand. Taste your sauce before using and adjust accordingly. Add more blue cheese or ranch drizzle to tame the fire, or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes for a bold kick. This flexibility makes the pizza customizable for different spice preferences.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Pizza
1. Crisp Green Salad
Balance the richness of the pizza with a light, tangy green salad. A mix of romaine, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing refreshes the palate and adds welcome crunch.
2. Celery and Carrot Sticks with Dip
Bring the buffalo wing experience full circle with a side of celery and carrot sticks. Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to complement the pizza’s flavor while keeping things light.
3. Cold Beer or Sparkling Lemonade
Pair this bold pizza with a chilled drink. A hoppy IPA or a zesty lemonade cuts through the richness and enhances the spice, making each bite feel fresh and exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely. Store-bought dough works great—just be sure to let it come to room temperature so it rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly.
2. What’s the best cheese substitute for mozzarella?
Monterey Jack or provolone are good alternatives. They melt well and complement the spicy chicken without overpowering it.
3. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prep the toppings and marinate the chicken in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake the pizza fresh for the crispiest crust.
4. How spicy is this pizza?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used. It’s generally medium heat, but you can dial it up or down with more or less sauce and dressing to suit your taste.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. If utilizing a pizza stone, place it inside the oven during preheating to ensure an evenly baked, crisp crust.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and one tablespoon of blue cheese dressing. Allow this mixture to rest, letting the flavors meld as you prepare the pizza base.
- Lightly grease a 12-inch pizza pan or stone. Roll out the dough evenly and pierce it lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Spread the pizza sauce uniformly over the dough, then layer with most of the shredded mozzarella. Distribute the buffalo chicken mixture, red onions, and banana pepper rings evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle the pizza with three tablespoons of blue cheese dressing and one to two tablespoons of buffalo sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for approximately 13 minutes, until the crust firms and the cheese bubbles.
- Combine the melted butter, grated Parmesan, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture over the pizza crust, then return the pizza to the oven for an additional two to three minutes, or until the crust turns a rich golden brown.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with chopped chives or green onions, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. Slice and serve immediately.
- Savor the harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and creamy elements with each delicious bite.
