Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Donatos Pizza features tender grilled chicken, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch dressing atop a golden, crispy crust, topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a savory and satisfying flavor blend.
Equipments
- Pizza oven
- Pizza peel
- Rolling pin
- Dough mixer
- Sheet pan or pizza screen
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Sauce ladle or spoon
- Grater (for cheese)
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Tongs
- Cooling rack
- Pizza cutter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked grilled chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Using pre-cooked grilled chicken breast and cooked bacon ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture from sogging the pizza crust. Opt for shredded mozzarella cheese to achieve optimal melt and gooey texture that complements smoky bacon and creamy ranch dressing. Measure ranch dressing carefully as too much can make the pizza soggy, while just the right amount adds a zesty flavor balance. Freshly chopped parsley can be added for a pop of color and a subtle herbal note, enhancing the overall presentation. If you're recreating Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Donatos Pizza, assembling with these ingredient tips will help you achieve a crispy crust and a savory, well-balanced flavor profile.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the pizza oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Lightly flour the work surface and use the rolling pin to stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Place the dough on a sheet pan or pizza screen.
- Brush the dough edge with olive oil.
- Use a ladle or spoon to spread an even layer of ranch dressing over the dough, leaving a border for the crust.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ranch base.
- Scatter diced grilled chicken breast and crumbled bacon evenly over the cheese.
- Transfer the pizza to the oven using a pizza peel.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Use tongs to remove the pizza from the oven and place it on a cooling rack or cutting board.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if using.
- Slice with a pizza cutter and serve hot.
Substitution
You can easily recreate the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Donatos Pizza by using store-bought pizza dough if making your own is inconvenient. If grilled chicken breast is unavailable, shredded rotisserie chicken works as a flavorful substitute without compromising texture. In place of ranch dressing, a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and dried herbs can maintain the creamy tang. Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal for melting, but any mild white cheese can be grated and used in a pinch. Your baking setup can adapt from a pizza oven to a conventional oven by using a pizza stone or sheet pan preheated for a crisp crust.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your pizza oven to the precise temperature of 475degF (245degC) to achieve a golden, crispy crust essential for the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza. Lightly flour your work surface before rolling out the dough to prevent sticking while maintaining the dough's elasticity for an even 12-inch circle. When spreading your ranch dressing, leave a clear border around the edges to ensure the crust crisps up properly without becoming soggy. Use a pizza peel for transferring the pizza to and from the oven safely, preventing any toppings from sliding off and preserving the perfect arrangement of grilled chicken, bacon, and mozzarella on your pie.
Nutritions
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Donatos offers a rich source of protein from grilled chicken and bacon, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy. The mozzarella cheese contributes calcium for strong bones, while the ranch dressing adds fats for satiety and flavor. The golden crust supplies carbohydrates necessary for energy, but it also contains calories that should be balanced within your daily intake. You can enjoy this pizza as a hearty meal while monitoring portion sizes to maintain nutritional balance.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza in an airtight container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness. You can refrigerate the pizza for up to 3-4 days to enjoy later, ensuring the cheese and toppings remain flavorful. To reheat, use your pizza oven or conventional oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
Try substituting the ranch dressing with a garlic aioli or a creamy blue cheese sauce for a different flavor profile. You can swap mozzarella with a blend of provolone and cheddar to add a sharper taste and richer texture. For the protein, consider using smoked turkey or thinly sliced ham instead of bacon to vary the smoky element. Your pizza dough can be enhanced by letting it ferment overnight in the refrigerator, which develops a more complex crust flavor.
Allergies
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Donatos Pizza contains several common allergens including dairy from the mozzarella cheese and ranch dressing, gluten from the pizza dough, and possibly eggs if included in the ranch dressing. Those with allergies to poultry or pork should be cautious due to the grilled chicken and bacon toppings. It's important for you to check ingredient labels or consult the restaurant to avoid any adverse allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Donatos Pizza's Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza features a perfect blend of tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing on a fresh, hand-tossed crust. The rich combination of savory and tangy flavors creates a satisfying taste experience that appeals to a wide audience. You will appreciate the balance of quality ingredients and bold seasoning, making it a standout choice for pizza lovers. Trying a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this popular dish at home, ensuring fresh customization and cost savings.