Get ready to ignite your taste buds with Buffalo Chicken Pizza! This dish combines the zesty, spicy essence of buffalo chicken, topped with irresistible melted mozzarella cheese and finished with a creamy drizzle of ranch or blue cheese. A favorite in pizzerias across America and sports bars alike, this pizza is a satisfying combination of flavors that tempts your palate with every slice. At restaurants, you might find it priced around $12 to $20, reflecting its popularity as a staple in American cuisine. For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, the keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza provides a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
Origin and Inspiration
The origins of Buffalo Chicken Pizza can be traced back to the beloved Buffalo chicken wing, which first emerged in Buffalo, New York, during the 1960s. This combination of spicy, tangy buffalo sauce with tender chicken became a game-day favorite, eventually inspiring chefs and home cooks to adapt the classic flavors onto pizza. Unlike traditional pizza, which often relies on tomato sauce, the Buffalo chicken variant uses a vibrant oily sauce that brings both heat and richness.
The keto adaptation of this pizza creatively substitutes the usual crust with a low-carb alternative made from cauliflower or almond flour. This version maintains the beloved comfort and flavor of the traditional dish while keeping it keto-friendly, making it perfect for health-conscious pizza lovers who still want a delightful culinary experience.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 1200mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g
Keto Version
Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 1150mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (cauliflower or almond flour-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base:
- Traditional Version:
Roll out your dough on a floured surface until you reach your preferred thickness. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) so it’s ready for the perfect bake.
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto crust according to recipe directions. Pre-bake it for about 10-12 minutes until golden and firm.
2. Toss the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated, and the spicy aroma starts to fill the air. This step infuses every bite of your pizza with that signature buffalo flavor!
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread a thin layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing over the crust. Evenly distribute the buffalo chicken over the sauce. Then, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to blanket your creation.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Slide the assembled pizza onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and starts to turn golden brown around the edges.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for that festival of flavor, slice, and serve hot.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Enjoy alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a cold beer, which harmonizes with the spicy, bold notes of the buffalo chicken.
- Keto Pairing: Pair it with sliced veggies and ranch dip for a refreshing crunch or a sparkling water with lemon to cleanse your palate.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: This pizza is also great in the fridge for about 3 days.
- Freezing: Both types can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grill: For a smoky twist, grill the pizza on a pizza stone. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the pizza for about 8-10 minutes until the bottom is crisp.
- Air Fryer: If you’re short on time, an air fryer can quickly cook smaller pizza portions at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes.
Conclusion
Whether you are craving the bold flavors of the traditional Buffalo Chicken Pizza or opting for the health-conscious keto version, this dish promises a delightful experience filled with spicy, tangy, and creamy sensations. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings, a slice of this pizza is a step into the delicious intersection of comfort and bold flavor, making it a staple in any pizza lover’s repertoire. So gather your ingredients and let the pizza party begin! Enjoy how both versions can seamlessly integrate into your meals while satisfying your cravings.