Thai Chicken Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen features tender grilled chicken, creamy peanut sauce, fresh mozzarella, shredded carrots, and cilantro atop a crispy, thin crust, delivering a flavorful fusion of savory and tangy tastes with a delightful crunch.
Equipments
- Oven
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Grill pan or skillet
- Rolling pin
- Spoon or ladle
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 prepared pizza dough (about 12-inch)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon roasted salted peanuts
Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breast to ensure tender and juicy pieces that complement the creamy peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Grate fresh ginger and mince garlic for authentic flavors that elevate the tangy and savory taste profile. Measure the crushed red pepper flakes carefully to balance heat without overpowering the dish. Opt for shredded mozzarella cheese to achieve the perfect melt, while shredded carrots and fresh cilantro add crunch and freshness. Your homemade Thai Chicken Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen copycat menu will capture the vibrant fusion of flavors featured in the original dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Season chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Grill or cook chicken on grill pan/skillet until cooked through.
- Let chicken rest, then thinly slice.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and water.
- Whisk sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Roll out pizza dough on floured surface to about 12 inches.
- Transfer dough to parchment paper or floured pizza peel.
- Spread peanut sauce evenly over dough, reserving 2 tablespoons for drizzling.
- Sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese over sauce.
- Arrange sliced cooked chicken evenly on pizza.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Add shredded carrots and green onions over the cheese.
- Carefully transfer pizza to preheated pizza stone/baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven.
- Drizzle reserved peanut sauce on top.
- Sprinkle cilantro leaves, bean sprouts (if using), and roasted peanuts over pizza.
- Slice and serve hot.
Substitution
The Thai Chicken Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen copycat offers a unique blend of grilled chicken, peanut sauce, and fresh vegetables on a crispy crust. If you don't have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works well to achieve a similar crispy base. You can substitute creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor if allergic to peanuts. When fresh ginger or garlic is unavailable, use ground powder but reduce quantities as they are more concentrated. Your pizza will still be delicious if you omit optional bean sprouts or replace fresh cilantro with flat-leaf parsley.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breast is evenly cooked and allowed to rest before slicing to retain juiciness. Use a pizza stone preheated in the oven to achieve a crispy, golden crust with evenly melted cheese. When rolling out your pizza dough, dust your surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking and maintain the dough's elasticity. Reserve a small amount of peanut sauce to drizzle after baking, enhancing your pizza's fresh, layered flavors.
Nutritions
Thai Chicken Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen offers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. The grilled chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth. Creamy peanut sauce contributes heart-healthy fats and a rich source of vitamin E, while fresh vegetables like shredded carrots, green onions, and cilantro add dietary fiber and antioxidants. This combination makes your meal both satisfying and nutritious.
Storage
Store your leftover Thai Chicken Pizza in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the pizza within two hours of cooking and consume it within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for about 8-10 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
Substitute grilled chicken with thinly sliced tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative while maintaining protein content. Swap creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter to offer a different nutty flavor profile. Use a cauliflower or whole wheat crust for a lower-carb or more fiber-rich base. For added zest, marinate chicken in lime juice and chili flakes before cooking to intensify the savory taste you'll enjoy.
Allergies
This Thai Chicken Pizza contains peanuts, soy, and dairy, which are common allergens that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The creamy peanut butter and roasted peanuts especially pose a significant risk for those with peanut allergies. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it is important to avoid this dish or modify the recipe accordingly to keep your meal safe.
Why this recipe?
The Thai Chicken Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen is loved for its unique fusion of bold flavors, combining tangy peanut sauce, tender grilled chicken, and a blend of fresh vegetables atop a perfectly crisp crust. Your taste buds enjoy a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that set it apart from traditional pizzas. Making a copycat version at home is worth trying because it allows you to customize ingredients to your preference while recreating the distinctive taste at a fraction of the price. This pizza masterpiece offers a flavorful experience that satisfies cravings and inspires culinary creativity.