Prepare to redefine your pizza nights. This Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza isn’t just another twist on the classic, it’s a bold, fiery celebration of flavor. Think juicy chicken marinated in chili and garlic, creamy melted cheese, and a golden crust that’s crisp on the outside yet pillowy inside. It’s spicy, savory, comforting, and completely addictive.

Whether you’re a die-hard pizza lover or just looking to spice up a weeknight dinner, this recipe strikes that perfect balance between restaurant-quality flavor and easy home cooking. Forget takeout, once you make this, you’ll never go back.

Ingredients for Chili Garlic Chicken Pizza

For the Pizza Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1¼ cups warm water (105–115°F)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing)

For the Chili Garlic Chicken:

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust spice to taste)
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

1 cup chili garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup provolone (optional, for extra richness)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, start fresh—your yeast may be inactive.

2. Make the Dough

In another large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Chicken

Whisk together olive oil, garlic, chilies, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Add chicken cubes and toss well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

Cook the chicken in a hot skillet for 8–10 minutes, until caramelized and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

4. Preheat and Roll Out

Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat. Divide dough in half and roll each portion into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.

5. Assemble

Transfer rolled dough to a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of chili garlic sauce, then top with mozzarella, provolone, and cooked chicken.

6. Bake

Bake 12–15 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

7. Garnish & Serve

Top with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Let cool a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot—and maybe with a drizzle of extra chili oil if you’re brave.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Flavor

Spice Control: For a milder pizza, use one chili or substitute with sweet chili sauce.
Crispy Crust Secret: Preheat your pizza stone for at least 20 minutes. It mimics a wood-fired oven!
Make-Ahead: Store dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months.
Flavor Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking for nutty depth.

Substitutions & Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or roasted veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms).
Vegan Option: Use vegan mozzarella and agave instead of honey.
Crust Alternatives: Cauliflower or gluten-free crusts work perfectly with this bold topping combo.
Extra Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
Cheese Lovers: Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a creamy-spicy fusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with store-bought dough?

Absolutely. Many readers love using pre-made dough for convenience—just let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before stretching.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Yes! Toss it in the chili garlic marinade and cook briefly to absorb flavor before assembling your pizza.

Can I freeze the pizza?

Bake, cool, then freeze slices in airtight containers. Reheat at 400°F for 10 minutes for a crispy, fresh taste.

Nutrition Information (per slice)

Calories: ~340
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 12g
Sodium: 710mg
Sugar: 6g

(Values may vary based on ingredients and crust thickness.)

The fiery kick from the chili, the aroma of garlic, and the tender, saucy chicken blend beautifully with the melted cheese and crisp crust.

Make it once, and you’ll see why this has become a reader favorite, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or when you just want something homemade and bold.

So go ahead, preheat your oven and let your kitchen smell like pure joy. When you’re done, drop a comment or photo below, I’d love to see how your version turns out!