This fun grilled pizza is topped with tasty pesto, juicy chicken, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend treat!
Who doesn’t love pizza cooked on the grill? The smoky flavor makes it special, and you can get creative with toppings. I always add extra cheese because, well, cheese is life! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own! Gluten-free dough can be a great alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
Basil Pesto: Homemade pesto is fantastic, but jarred pesto works just fine for a quick meal. You can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto or roasted red pepper spread for a twist!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver; you can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using grilled vegetables or chickpeas instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but you can mix it up with provolone or even goat cheese for a different flavor. Vegan cheese can be a good substitute for a dairy-free option.
Mushrooms: If you don’t have button mushrooms, you can use shiitake, portobello, or even bell peppers for extra color and taste.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Pizza Without Burning It?
Grilling pizza can be tricky, but with a little care, you’ll get it right! Start by preheating the grill. The key is to manage the heat while cooking.
- Keep the grill at medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the dough is flipped, work quickly to add toppings—this helps prevent it from burning.
- Cover the grill to create an oven-like environment, ensuring even cooking.
- Keep an eye on it! Check every minute or so to avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you’ll impress your friends and family with delicious grilled pizza!
Easy Grilled Pesto Pizza With Chicken and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 12 inches)
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 4-5 button mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and grill, making it a quick and delicious meal option. Once the grill is preheated, the actual grilling process is under 10 minutes, making this dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Remember to brush the grill grates with olive oil to help prevent the dough from sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. This will be the base for your delicious toppings!
3. Grill the Dough:
Brush one side of the dough lightly with olive oil, then place that side down on the hot grill. Close the lid and grill for about 2-3 minutes until you see grill marks and the dough starts to firm up.
4. Flip the Dough:
Using tongs and a spatula, carefully flip the dough over so the grilled side is now facing up.
5. Add the Pesto:
Quickly spread the basil pesto evenly over the grilled surface of the dough. This will add so much flavor!
6. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto layer to provide that gooey, cheesy goodness.
7. Add the Chicken:
Next, scatter the cooked chicken pieces over the cheese. This will give the pizza a hearty boost!
8. Top with Veggies:
Add the sliced mushrooms and tomato slices evenly across the pizza for freshness and flavor.
9. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors.
10. Close the Grill Lid:
Close the grill lid and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is cooked through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
11. Remove and Cut:
Once done, carefully remove the pizza from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board to cool slightly. This makes it easier to slice!
12. Garnish:
Top your pizza with fresh sliced basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your grilled pesto pizza into wedges and serve warm. Enjoy this tasty treat with family and friends!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Pesto Pizza With Chicken and Cheese
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to let it rest for a few minutes at room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I Make This Pizza Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and load up on more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes. You can also add extra cheese or use a protein substitute like tofu or tempeh.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back on the grill for a few minutes or use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix it up with provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well for that creamy, delicious finish!
