Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza Recipe | Spicy, Cheesy & Delicious
The first time I made a Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza, I knew I had discovered something special. It was like capturing a bold Southern classic and turning it into the ultimate comfort food. This pizza is loaded with spicy, tender chicken, melty cheese, and those signature pickle slices for a tangy kick.
Not to mention, the Nashville Hot Sauce is lip-tingling perfection! I promise, if you love a little heat and crave something different for your pizza night, this will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen. Trust me, making this pizza is as fun as devouring it, and the flavors are unforgettable!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Every bite of this pizza is flavorful and exciting! Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe.
It’s Easy to Make
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of homemade pizza. Whether you use store-bought dough or make it from scratch, this recipe is straightforward. Most of the steps involve assembling the toppings, and the hardest part is waiting for it to bake! You’ll look like a pizza pro without breaking a sweat.
Bursting with Flavor
This isn’t your average pizza. The spicy, smoky Nashville Hot Sauce paired with juicy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and fresh garnishes makes it bold, vibrant, and downright irresistible. It’s perfect for anyone who loves big flavors.
Customizable for Everyone
You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds. Not into too much heat? Dial down the cayenne. Want more kick? Add an extra dash! It’s also great for accommodating dietary preferences, with simple swaps for a dairy-free or gluten-free version.
A Fun Twist on Tradition
Why settle for regular pepperoni or plain cheese when you can take pizza night to a whole new level? Merging two beloved foods, hot chicken and pizza, creates an exciting dish that’s party-ready or perfect for a cozy night in.
Perfect for Sharing
Whether you’re hosting a game night or feeding your family, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser. It’s big enough to share, easy to slice, and keeps everyone’s hands off their phones while they savor every bite.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- Cooked, shredded chicken breast
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Sliced red onion
- Pickle slices (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro
- Hot sauce
- Unsalted butter
- Brown sugar
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these creative twists!
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free alternatives for mozzarella and butter. The recipe still packs its signature flavor without compromising taste.
- Spice Level Adjustments: Prefer it milder? Use less cayenne or add a splash of honey to the sauce. Love the heat? Go wild with extra cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes!
- Add-Ons for Extra Flavor: Top with crispy bacon, jalapeños, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a unique twist. You can also enjoy similar chicken flavors in a Chick-fil-A Chicken Recipe if you want another easy and flavorful chicken dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Rolling Pin – To flatten your pizza dough evenly.
- Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet – For a crisp crust.
- Small Saucepan – To prepare the signature sauce.
- Pastry Brush – For brushing olive oil onto the dough.
How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza?
Making this pizza is a breeze, and the process is as satisfying as the finished dish!
Step 1: Prepare the Hot Sauce
Grab a small saucepan and melt some butter over low heat. Stir in your hot sauce, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust for spice if needed! Stir until it’s all well-combined and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (or the temperature stated on the pizza dough packaging). A hot oven is key to a crispy crust and gooey cheese.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired size and thickness. Keep it thin if you want a crispy crust or thicker for more chew.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Place your rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the top lightly with olive oil. Spread the Nashville Hot Sauce evenly over the dough. Top with shredded chicken, sliced red onions, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pizza into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Pull the pizza out of the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro and pickle slices. These fresh toppings balance the heat beautifully. Slice it up, serve, and enjoy every fiery bite!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Make sure your pizza dough is at room temperature before rolling it out to avoid tears.
- If you love extra crispy crust, consider pre-baking the dough for a few minutes without toppings.
- Go heavy on the Nashville Hot Sauce for an extra punch of flavor. Keep extra sauce on the side for dipping!
- Garnishes like pickles and cilantro are optional, but they add a delightful bite.
How to Serve Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza?
To serve, cut the pizza into slices and arrange them on a wooden cutting board or plate for a casual, inviting vibe. Drizzle a bit more of the hot sauce over the top for presentation and flavor.
Pair it with a side salad or crunchy coleslaw to complement the spiciness, and don’t forget napkins for an extra saucy experience! If you enjoy experimenting with chicken recipes, you might also like a quick Chicken Lo Mein Recipe for an easy weeknight meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick note on the estimated nutrition per slice of pizza, based on eight servings.
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 14g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re prepping in advance, here’s what you need to know!
Make Ahead
You can prepare the Nashville Hot Sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Store each component in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pizza fresh for the best results.
Storage
Leftover pizza? No problem! Store slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, pop a slice in the oven or air fryer for crispy edges. The pizza can also be frozen for up to a month. Defrost overnight before reheating for tasty results.
Now that you know the ins and outs, it’s time to bring your pizza night to life! Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza is bold, delicious, and so much fun to make. Enjoy every savory, spicy bite.
