Description
This High Protein Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad with a protein-packed twist on pizza. Featuring a crispy crust topped with grilled chicken, Caesar dressing, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh Romaine lettuce, this dish delivers a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base
- 1 pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
Protein Toppings
- 1 cup grilled chicken breast, chopped or shredded
Cheeses and Dressing
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (use a high-protein or Greek yogurt-based dressing for extra protein)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using store-bought pizza dough, roll it out on a baking sheet. If using homemade dough, prepare it as directed for a ready crust base.
- Prepare the Crust: Brush the pizza crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes or until the crust begins to crisp up, creating a sturdy base for the toppings.
- Cook Chicken: While the crust is baking, grill or cook the chicken breast until fully cooked. Once cooled, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensuring even distribution over the pizza later.
- Add Dressing and Toppings: Remove the crust from the oven and spread a thin layer of Caesar dressing on top of the crust to infuse flavor.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Evenly distribute the grilled chicken pieces over the pizza, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the pizza to the oven.
- Bake Again: Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, ensuring a warm, flavorful cheese topping.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh Romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes. Optionally, add additional Caesar dressing for extra creaminess.
- Serve: Slice and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or freshly cracked black pepper for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use a whole wheat or cauliflower pizza crust.
- Use a Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing to increase protein content.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for safety.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the pizza an extra 1-2 minutes after adding toppings.
- Fresh vegetables added after baking help maintain crispness and freshness.
- This pizza is best enjoyed immediately to keep the lettuce fresh and the crust crisp.
