Irresistible Grilled Artichoke, Chicken & Bacon Pizza: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
As the depths of winter linger, bringing with it an endless cycle of snow, ice, and biting cold, I find myself yearning for the warmth and vibrant flavors of spring and summer. My recent move to Colorado was partly for its milder winters, but the past few weeks have been anything but. Shoveling snow has left my back aching, and my toes perpetually cold – it’s enough to make one seriously consider a move to sunnier climes like Australia!
Escape the Winter Chill with a Burst of Flavor: Grilled Artichoke, Chicken & Bacon Pizza
To combat these persistent winter blues, I turned to a culinary escape: pizza! But not just any pizza. I crafted a truly special Grilled Artichoke, Chicken & Bacon Pizza using exquisite Cara Mia Grilled Artichokes. My journey with artichokes has been quite a transformation. For years, they weren’t a staple in my kitchen, but in the last year, I’ve become a devoted fan. Between discovering recipes like this amazing artichoke pesto and a creamy artichoke dip, my appreciation for their unique, earthy flavor has blossomed.
So, when STAR Fine Foods approached me about developing a recipe featuring their new Mediterranean Cooking Oil and Cara Mia Grilled Artichokes, I was thrilled by the challenge. Knowing my husband is an even bigger artichoke enthusiast than I am, I consulted him for ideas. His immediate response? “Some kind of white pizza!” And just like that, the inspiration for this mouthwatering white pizza recipe was born.
Crafting Your Perfect Naan Bread Pizza
For the crust, I opted for convenient Naan bread. It’s an absolute game-changer for quick weeknight dinners, offering a soft, chewy base that crisps up beautifully in the oven. You can easily pick up Naan at your local grocery store, or if you’re feeling ambitious and have a bit more time, you can whip up your own using this fantastic Naan bread recipe. The homemade version adds an extra layer of freshness, but store-bought works wonderfully for speed.
Instead of a traditional tomato-based sauce, which wouldn’t quite fit the “white pizza” request, I generously brushed the Naan crust with STAR’s aromatic Mediterranean Cooking Oil. This oil infused the crust with a delicate, savory flavor that complemented the toppings perfectly without overpowering them. It’s a simple step that adds incredible depth.
Then came the stars of the show: tender chicken pieces, smoky crumbled bacon, the delicious Cara Mia Grilled Artichokes, and a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese. Each ingredient contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures, making this chicken and bacon pizza truly special.
The Perfect Harmony of Flavors: Why This White Pizza Shines
Everyone who tasted this pizza absolutely adored it. The grilled artichokes bring a fantastic, slightly tangy and smoky flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the rich, savory notes of the bacon. When all these ingredients are brought together under a blanket of perfectly melted cheese, the result is simply divine. The combination is undeniably addictive – how could it be anything but delicious?
This easy white pizza is incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic solution for a quick weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still crave something flavorful and satisfying. But its appeal doesn’t stop there! It also makes for an impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering or party. Just slice it into smaller squares, and watch it disappear!
Tips for Success & Customization
- **Chicken Prep:** For even quicker prep, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced.
- **Artichoke Quality:** While Cara Mia Grilled Artichokes are highly recommended for their superior flavor, good quality jarred or canned artichoke hearts (drained and chopped) will also work.
- **Cheese Blend:** Experiment with different cheeses! A mix of mozzarella and provolone, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan, can add an extra layer of flavor.
- **Fresh Herbs:** A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or oregano after baking enhances the aroma and taste.
- **Spice It Up:** A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Embrace the ease and deliciousness of this Grilled Artichoke, Chicken & Bacon Pizza. It’s a guaranteed hit that will brighten even the chilliest of evenings and become a regular in your meal rotation. Its robust flavors and simple preparation make it a true culinary gem.
Grilled Artichoke, Chicken & Bacon Pizza
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Ingredients
- 1 small boneless skinless chicken breast
- Salt and Pepper
- Olive Oil
- 2 8-inch pieces Naan bread
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 cup Artichoke Hearts, chopped (preferably Cara Mia Grilled Artichokes)
- 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220°C).
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In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for approximately 6 minutes per side, or until it is thoroughly cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and slice it thinly into bite-sized pieces.
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Place the Naan bread pieces directly on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to give them a slight crispness.
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Remove the Naan bread from the oven and brush each piece generously with Mediterranean cooking oil, covering the entire surface.
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Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon, chopped grilled artichoke hearts, and thinly sliced chicken over the oiled Naan bread. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over all the toppings, ensuring good coverage.
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Return the pizzas to the oven and bake for another 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly and the crust edges are golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade pizza!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Support a Cause: Help Baby Noah
On a more serious note, I’d like to bring your attention to a very important cause. Please consider heading over to Steph’s Bite by Bite to learn more about baby Noah and how you can help. Noah is a brave little boy suffering from severe autism, and the vital treatment he needs is not covered by insurance. As part of a special bake sale to raise funds for his care, I’m contributing my delightful Biscoff Rice Krispie Treats. By bidding on them, you’ll not only be supporting a wonderful cause but also receive a special package from me in the mail!
** I have an ongoing relationship with STAR Fine Foods for recipe development.