This Chicken Crust Caesar Salad Pizza is a delicious, low-carb twist on traditional pizza. Instead of a doughy base, this recipe uses a protein-packed chicken crust, topped with crisp romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons. It’s a fresh and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of a classic Caesar salad with the indulgence of pizza.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb and keto-friendly alternative to traditional pizza
- Packed with protein, making it a great post-workout meal
- A unique combination of crispy, cheesy, and fresh flavors
- Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep or a light yet satisfying dinner
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground chicken
- Egg
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Romaine lettuce
- Caesar dressing
- Croutons (optional for a lower-carb version, use keto-friendly croutons)
- Extra parmesan cheese for topping
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the chicken crust by mixing ground chicken, egg, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the crust by spreading the chicken mixture onto the lined baking sheet, shaping it into a thin, round crust.
- Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and slightly golden.
- Top with cheese and return to the oven for another 5 minutes until the mozzarella melts and turns bubbly.
- Prepare the Caesar salad by tossing romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and extra parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the pizza by spreading the salad over the cooled chicken crust and sprinkling croutons on top.
- Slice and serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken crust mixture.
- Extra Crunch: Use baked cheese crisps instead of croutons for added texture.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and a vegan Caesar dressing alternative.
- Mediterranean Twist: Top with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta instead of Caesar toppings.
- BBQ Version: Swap Caesar dressing for BBQ sauce and use cheddar instead of parmesan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispier texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken crust in advance and store it in the fridge. Top with salad just before serving.
FAQs
How do I keep the chicken crust from being too soft?
Make sure to bake it long enough to remove excess moisture and let it cool slightly before adding toppings.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken?
Yes, but you’ll need to blend it with egg and cheese to help it bind together.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free croutons or omit them altogether.
Can I freeze the chicken crust?
Yes, bake the crust, let it cool, then freeze it. Reheat in the oven before adding toppings.
What’s the best way to make this dish keto-friendly?
Skip the croutons or use a keto-friendly alternative.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, ranch or a garlic aioli can be a great alternative.
How can I make the crust crispier?
Bake it on a wire rack to allow air circulation underneath.
Can I add toppings other than Caesar salad?
Absolutely! Try arugula, cherry tomatoes, or even buffalo sauce for a different twist.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids who enjoy Caesar salad and chicken tenders will likely love this pizza.
What side dishes pair well with this?
A light soup or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Conclusion
Chicken Crust Caesar Salad Pizza is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional pizza, perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a fresh and satisfying meal. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy a delicious fusion of salad and pizza in one bite!
PrintChicken Crust Caesar Salad Pizza
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Crust Caesar Salad Pizza is a low-carb, protein-packed dish that combines crispy chicken crust with fresh romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Crust:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/3 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape & Bake: Form the mixture into a thin, round pizza crust on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Assemble the Salad: In a bowl, toss the chopped romaine with Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
- Top the Pizza: Spread the dressed lettuce over the chicken crust. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan, black pepper, and cherry tomatoes (if using).
- Serve & Enjoy: Slice and serve immediately. Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat!
Notes
- You can swap ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
- For extra crispiness, broil the crust for 2-3 minutes before adding toppings.
- Use a low-fat Caesar dressing for a lighter version.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
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