This Grilled Pesto Pizza is a fun twist on pizza night! With fresh pesto, juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and ricotta cheese, it’s bursting with flavor and goodness.
I love how the grill gives the crust a nice char and smoky taste. It’s super quick to make and perfect for summer gatherings. You might just want seconds! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade adds a personal touch. If you’re gluten-free, try pizza dough made from almond flour or cauliflower.
Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto is ideal, but if you want a twist, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even a vegan version made with nuts. I enjoy making my own when I have the time—it really boosts the flavor!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease. If you’re vegetarian, swap this for grilled veggies like zucchini or eggplant, which can add great flavor.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is perfect for that gooey texture. For a different flavor, consider using burrata or provolone. If you want a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella works well, too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness. If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes can be great substitutes. Keep in mind that sun-dried tomatoes give a richer taste.
How Do I Grill Pizza Without It Sticking?
Grilling pizza can seem tricky, but a few steps can help you avoid sticking. Start with enough oil on the dough and a preheated grill.
- Brush one side of the dough with olive oil before placing it on the grill; this helps create a barrier.
- Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve those lovely grilled marks.
- Use a pizza stone or grill pan if you’re worried about sticking—this can also give you an evenly cooked crust.
- Keep an eye on the pizza, and use a spatula or tongs to lift it slightly to check for doneness.
Following these tips will make grilling your pizza easier and more enjoyable!
Grilled Pesto Pizza With Chicken, Mozzarella, And Ricotta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pizza Base:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pesto and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pesto pizza will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook on the grill. So, in total, set aside around 30 minutes to create this delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your pizza cooks evenly and develops those nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a clean, floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Remember, the thinner you roll it, the crispier it will be! Once you’ve got it rolled out, brush one side with olive oil. This will help it get nice and golden on the grill.
3. Grill the Dough:
Carefully place the oiled side of the dough down onto the hot grill. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is lightly browned and you see those beautiful grill marks. Use a grill spatula or tongs to flip it over.
4. Add the Toppings:
Now, spread the pesto sauce evenly over the grilled side of the pizza dough. Layer the shredded chicken, sliced mozzarella, and dollops of creamy ricotta cheese on top. Then, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced mushrooms across the pizza. Finally, season everything with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
5. Grill to Perfection:
Close the grill lid and let the pizza cook for another 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust turns a lovely golden brown. The smell will be amazing!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pizza from the grill. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it up and serve. Enjoy your scrumptious grilled pesto pizza!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out, as cold dough can be difficult to stretch.
What If I Don’t Have Pesto Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute with a homemade sauce like a simple tomato sauce or even a mix of olive oil and garlic. If you have some fresh herbs, blending them with olive oil can also make a delicious replacement.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get the crust crispy again.
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Pizza?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bell peppers, spinach, or even olives. Just be mindful of the moisture content; excessive wet ingredients may make the crust soggy.
