This grilled pesto pizza is bursting with flavor! Topped with juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and fluffy ricotta, it’s a slice of heaven for pizza lovers.
Honestly, grilling it just adds that smoky kick that makes it even better. I mean, who doesn’t love a pizza that’s easy to make and impresses everyone? 🍕
What I love most is how quick it is to prepare. Just whip up the toppings and let the grill do its magic. Perfect for a summer get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Crust: You can use either store-bought or homemade pizza dough. I love making my own because I can customize it! If you’re short on time, a store-bought crust works great and saves effort.
Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto adds fabulous flavor, but you can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a twist. If nut allergies are a concern, consider nut-free versions or make your own!
Cooked Chicken: Grilled or rotisserie chicken is perfect here. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to swap in grilled veggies like bell peppers or zucchini instead of chicken, which adds great flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is ideal for its creaminess. If it’s not available, use regular mozzarella or even provolone for a different taste. This is a key ingredient, so choosing a good quality cheese makes a big difference.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creaminess you won’t want to skip! If ricotta isn’t on hand, you can use cottage cheese or even goat cheese for a unique flavor.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Pizza?
Grilling pizza can be tricky if you haven’t done it before. It’s essential to know how to manage heat and timing. First, preheat your grill well to create a nice crust. Here’s how to get it right:
- Brush one side of the pizza crust with olive oil, which prevents sticking and promotes crispness.
- Grill the oiled side first until you see those lovely grill marks (about 2-3 minutes). This locks in the flavor and helps hold toppings.
- After adding toppings, cover the grill to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Check the cheese; once it’s melted and bubbly, your pizza is ready to go!
With a little practice, you’ll be a grilled pizza pro in no time!
How to Make Grilled Pesto Pizza With Chicken, Mozzarella, And Ricotta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pesto pizza takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill. So, you can enjoy this tasty meal in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are white and hot. This will give your pizza a nice, smoky flavor!
2. Prepare the Crust:
Lightly brush one side of the pizza crust with olive oil. Place the oiled side down on the grill grates and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks forming. This locks in all that delicious flavor!
3. Spread the Pesto:
Carefully remove the crust from the grill. Now, spread the pesto sauce evenly over the grilled side of the crust. This will be the delicious base for all the toppings!
4. Add the Chicken and Cheese:
Next, layer the shredded chicken evenly over the pesto. Then, add slices of fresh mozzarella and dollops of ricotta cheese. This cheesy goodness is what makes this pizza special!
5. Top with Veggies and Seasonings:
Add the sliced mushrooms and tomatoes on top. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat) evenly over everything. This adds an extra burst of flavor!
6. Grill It Up:
Now, carefully return the pizza to the grill. Cover the grill and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the grill and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. This adds a lovely aroma and a fresh touch!
8. Slice and Serve:
Let the pizza cool for a minute, then slice it into wedges. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade grilled pesto pizza! It’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).
Can I Use a Different Type of Pizza Crust?
Absolutely! You can use a whole wheat crust, gluten-free crust, or even a cauliflower crust if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different crusts may require more or less grilling time.
What Can I Substitute for the Pesto Sauce?
If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can use store-bought or homemade tomato sauce, or even a mixture of olive oil and minced garlic for a simpler flavor. For a unique twist, try using hummus or a balsamic glaze as a base!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pizza?
Place any leftover pizza in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with other toppings such as bell peppers, olives, red onion, or spinach. Just remember to pre-cook any raw vegetables that hold a lot of moisture to prevent a soggy pizza!
