This Chicken Alla Vodka Pizza is a fun twist on your regular pizza night! It features a creamy vodka sauce, tender chicken, and loads of cheesy goodness on a crispy crust.
You won’t believe how delicious and easy this is to make! I love adding extra herbs on top for a little extra flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always makes dinner feel special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: All-purpose flour is perfect for this dough. You could use bread flour for a chewier texture. If you’re gluten-free, a blend of gluten-free flour can work too, but follow the instructions for that blend closely.
Vodka: The vodka helps to give the sauce a distinct flavor and depth. If you want to avoid alcohol, try using chicken broth or white grape juice; the taste will be different, but it’ll still be tasty!
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, although it adds a slight sweetness.
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but grilled chicken gives a nice smoky flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using sautéed mushrooms or creamy tofu for a delicious twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for a pizza, but I like mixing in some provolone or gouda for extra flavor. Vegan cheese options are available if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Pizza Dough Rises Properly?
Getting a great rise in your pizza dough is crucial for a light and fluffy crust. Here are a few pointers:
- Make sure your water is warm but not hot; about 110°F (43°C) is perfect. Too hot can kill the yeast.
- Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to rise. An oven that’s turned off with the light on works well!
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to keep moisture in and help the dough rise faster.
After the hour, your dough should double in size. If it’s not, it might be worth checking your yeast’s freshness next time!
How to Make Chicken Alla Vodka Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vodka Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (grilled or rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh thyme or basil for garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 hours in total. You’ll need roughly 15-20 minutes for prep, 15-20 minutes for cooking the sauce, and about 10-15 minutes to bake the pizza. Don’t forget the dough needs to rise for about an hour! So, let’s get started and have some fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pizza Dough:
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually pour in the warm water and olive oil as you stir. Keep mixing until the dough starts to come together. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth. Once done, put the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Vodka Sauce:
While your dough rises, grab a saucepan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until the onion is translucent. Next, carefully pour in the vodka, letting it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Now mix in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let this simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it begins to thicken.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When your dough is nearly ready, it’s time to prepare the oven! Preheat your oven to its highest setting, usually around 475-500°F (245-260°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, make sure to place it in the oven while it preheats to get nice and hot.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet. Spread a layer of your homemade vodka sauce evenly over the dough, leaving some edge for the crust. Now sprinkle on the diced chicken and sliced red bell pepper. Finally, top it off with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully move your assembled pizza into the preheated oven or onto the hot pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on it until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
Once baked to perfection, take the pizza out of the oven. Garnish it with fresh thyme or basil, along with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cool for a minute before slicing into it and serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Alla Vodka Pizza!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough Instead?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough can save you time and effort. Simply follow the package instructions for rolling out and baking. You can still top it with the vodka sauce and toppings as directed in the recipe!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this pizza, simply omit the chicken. You can add additional veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. The vodka sauce remains the same, and it will be just as delicious!
Can I Make the Vodka Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the vodka sauce ahead of time! Cook the sauce and let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the pizza, simply reheat the sauce on the stove until warmed through.
What Should I Do If My Dough Isn’t Rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check the temperature of your environment; it should be warm but not hot. You might also ensure that your yeast is fresh and active. If all else fails, you can let it rise for a longer period, and it may eventually double in size!
