Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy pizza, you’ve come to the right place! This Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe is such a delightful twist on traditional pizza that it will quickly become a favorite in your home. The combination of tender shredded chicken, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy Brie cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that dances between savory and sweet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings where everyone can share and enjoy.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—just 25 minutes from start to finish! It’s ideal for using up leftovers, especially after the holidays when you’ve got extra turkey or cranberry sauce hanging around. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this tasty dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this pizza is a breeze to make even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, making it a hit with the whole family. Plus, they can help assemble their own pizzas!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to transform leftover chicken or turkey into something new and exciting.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries, savory chicken, and rich cheese makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful pizza. Most of these are staples you might already have in your kitchen!

For the Pizza

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or leftover turkey)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Arugula or fresh spinach for topping (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian twist.
• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese or feta if you’re not a fan of Brie. They bring their unique flavors to the dish!
• Add some crunch: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for an added layer of texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking.

How to Make Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot when your pizza goes in. A hot oven helps achieve that perfectly crispy crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

Roll out your pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Lightly brushing it with olive oil gives it an extra crispiness that elevates every bite!

Step 3: Mix Chicken and Cranberry Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken with cranberry sauce until well coated. This step ensures that each piece of chicken gets that tangy sweetness from the sauce—yum!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pizza

Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over the crust. Next, arrange slices of Brie across the pizza and sprinkle on shredded mozzarella along with thinly sliced red onion for that lovely flavor kick.

Step 5: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle olive oil over the assembled pizza and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves as well as salt and pepper. This adds depth to your flavors—every detail counts!

Step 6: Bake Your Pizza

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep an eye on it; there’s nothing quite like that aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 7: Cool and Top

Let your pizza cool for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. Top with arugula or fresh spinach if desired; it adds a fresh touch that’s hard to resist.

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy!

Slice up your delicious Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza and enjoy! Each bite delivers that wonderful blend of flavor that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Now grab a slice, relax, and savor this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe

Creating the perfect Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is all about attention to detail and a little creativity! Here are some pro tips to ensure your pizza turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality Brie and fresh cranberries can enhance the flavor of your pizza significantly, elevating it from good to unforgettable.

• Don’t Overload the Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, too much can make your pizza soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best texture and flavor balance.

• Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated before baking is key to achieving a crispy crust. A hot oven helps create that bubbly cheese and golden-brown edges we all love!

• Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar along with the Brie for extra depth of flavor.

• Use Leftovers Creatively: This recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken or turkey from holiday meals. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste while enjoying something new!

How to Serve Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe

When it comes to serving this delightful pizza, presentation matters! A well-presented dish not only looks appetizing but also enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve your pizza beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the pizza adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cranberry beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors and add an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs provide a hearty, healthy side.
• Garlic Bread: Nothing pairs better with pizza than warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover cranberry sauce!
• Sweet Potato Fries: These can be baked or fried until crispy and served alongside your pizza for a satisfying crunch that balances out the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza will not only taste amazing but also look fabulous on your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze it for a later date. Here’s how to keep your pizza fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of pizza to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pizza on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe.

Can I use different cheese in the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe?

Absolutely! While Brie adds a creamy texture, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese if preferred. Just ensure they melt well.

How long does the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe take to prepare?

The entire process is quick! It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, totaling just 25 minutes from start to finish.

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option as it saves time. Alternatively, leftover turkey works wonderfully too, especially after holiday feasts!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza! Its unique blend of flavors makes it a special dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine by experimenting with different toppings. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to savor every slice!