Chicken Crust Pizza (Easy Low Carb Recipe) – A Protein-Packed Favorite

Chicken Crust Pizza is a genius low-carb solution for pizza lovers who want all the flavor and satisfaction of a classic slice—without the refined flour or heavy carbs. Made with ground chicken, cheese, and simple seasonings, the crust is savory, sturdy, and naturally gluten-free. It bakes up golden and firm, offering the perfect base for your favorite pizza toppings.

This protein-packed alternative has become popular among keto, paleo, and clean-eating communities for good reason: it’s easy to make, incredibly customizable, and surprisingly delicious. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just curious about healthier pizza options, this recipe is a great one to add to your rotation.

The best part? It takes under 30 minutes from start to finish and uses just a handful of ingredients. No kneading, no rising time—just a satisfying, cheesy, golden crust ready to load up with all your favorites.

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Ingredients Overview

Every ingredient in this chicken crust pizza serves to build structure, flavor, and that satisfying, sliceable texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Chicken (Lean or Regular)

This is the base of the crust. Lean ground chicken (93%) holds together well without being greasy, while regular ground chicken (85%) adds extra moisture.

Tip: Avoid using ground chicken breast alone—it can become too dry. You can also make your own by pulsing chicken thighs in a food processor.

Alternative: Ground turkey works just as well.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Acts as a binder and adds stretch and flavor to the crust. Mozzarella melts smoothly and provides a firm, chewy bite once baked.

Substitute: Part-skim mozzarella helps reduce fat; use dairy-free shreds for lactose-free diets.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

Adds savory depth and helps absorb moisture. Use fresh grated for best results.

Note: This is optional but recommended for flavor.

Egg

The egg binds the crust ingredients together. Without it, the crust may fall apart after baking.

Substitute: For egg-free versions, try a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), but the texture may be softer.

Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning

These spices season the crust so it doesn’t taste plain or overly “meaty.” Italian seasoning adds that classic pizza aroma.

Optional: Add crushed red pepper, onion powder, or dried basil for extra flavor.

Salt & Pepper

Simple seasoning that balances the richness of the meat and cheese. Adjust to taste.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Chicken Crust Pizza is easier than traditional dough and requires no yeast, no rising, and no rest time.

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Crust Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 egg

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until the mixture is uniform.

3. Form the Crust

Place the mixture in the center of your prepared pan. Use your hands or a spatula to press it into a thin, even circle about ¼-inch thick. Keep the edges slightly raised to hold toppings later.

Tip: Wet your hands slightly to keep the mixture from sticking while shaping.

4. Bake the Crust

Bake the crust on the middle rack for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked through and golden around the edges. It should feel firm to the touch.

If excess moisture pools around the crust, blot gently with a paper towel or drain it carefully.

5. Add Toppings & Finish Baking

Remove the crust from the oven. Add your desired sauce, cheese, and toppings. Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes more, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra browning.

6. Slice & Serve

Let the pizza cool for 2–3 minutes, then slice with a pizza cutter and serve warm.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips

• Don’t skip the parchment: The crust can stick easily to metal pans.

• Drain excess fat: If using higher-fat meat, blot or drain the crust before adding toppings.

• Crispier crust: After baking, carefully flip the crust and bake another 5 minutes before topping.

Flavor Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Use buffalo sauce as the base, top with mozzarella and blue cheese crumbles.

• BBQ Chicken Pizza: Swap tomato sauce for BBQ sauce, and add red onion, cheddar, and cilantro.

• Greek-Style: Use olive oil, feta, olives, spinach, and tomatoes.

• Breakfast Pizza: Add scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheddar—perfect for meal prep.

Dietary Substitutions

• Keto: This recipe is naturally low in carbs—just use sugar-free pizza sauce.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free shredded cheese and Parmesan alternatives.

• Egg-Free: Use flax egg, though the crust will be slightly less firm.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Chicken Crust Pizza is perfect for a casual family dinner, solo lunch, or post-workout meal. It also makes a great addition to:

• Game day spreads

• Low-carb meal prep

• Gluten-free parties

• Kids’ dinner nights

Serve it with:

• A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Roasted zucchini or cauliflower

• Sparkling water or a light red wine like Pinot Noir

Leftovers store well and reheat easily in the oven or air fryer—ideal for packed lunches or next-day snacks.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

Chicken Crust Pizza is loaded with protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a smart choice for high-protein or ketogenic diets. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional profile per slice (based on 8 slices, no toppings):

• Calories: ~170

• Protein: ~20g

• Carbohydrates: ~2g

• Fat: ~9g

• Fiber: 0g

Health benefits:

• High-protein for muscle support and satiety

• Grain-free and naturally gluten-free

• Lower in carbs than cauliflower crust or traditional dough

To keep it balanced, top it with lots of veggies and go easy on sugary sauces or processed meats.

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FAQs

Q1: Is chicken crust pizza crispy?
A1: It has a firm, chewy texture with slightly crisp edges. For a crispier crust, bake a few minutes longer or flip halfway through baking.

Q2: Can I make the crust ahead of time?
A2: Yes. You can bake the crust in advance, let it cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready, just add toppings and reheat in the oven.

Q3: What kind of sauce should I use?
A3: Any pizza sauce works, but choose one that’s low in sugar if keeping carbs down. You can also use pesto, BBQ, or Alfredo sauce.

Q4: How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
A4: Fully cook the crust before adding toppings. If using wet ingredients like mushrooms or tomatoes, sauté or drain them first.

Q5: Can I freeze chicken crust pizza?
A5: Yes. Bake the crust, cool it completely, then wrap and freeze. Add toppings later and bake from frozen or thawed.

Q6: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken?
A6: Not for the crust. Rotisserie chicken is too chunky and lacks the binding texture of ground meat.

Q7: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A7: Absolutely. Kids love the flavor and cheesy crust. You can even let them help press the crust or add their favorite toppings.

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