Chicken Crust Pizza (Easy Low Carb Recipe) – High-Protein, Grain-Free Delight

This Chicken Crust Pizza is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, made with a simple crust formed from ground chicken, cheese, and seasonings. It’s high in protein, gluten-free, and keto-friendly—perfect for anyone looking to enjoy pizza night without the carb crash.

Unlike cauliflower or almond flour crusts, the chicken base bakes up sturdy and juicy, with a crisp edge and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with any toppings you love. It’s so satisfying and customizable, you won’t miss the dough.

Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or low-carb diet—or just want a protein-packed twist on a classic—this recipe delivers the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down what you need for this crave-worthy, low-carb chicken pizza, plus optional swaps and topping ideas.

Ground Chicken

• Lean ground chicken (93% or higher) is ideal. It binds well without releasing too much moisture.

• You can also use ground turkey, but it may be slightly drier.

• Avoid ground chicken with added water or fillers.

Cheese (for the crust)

• Shredded mozzarella or parmesan helps bind the chicken and adds flavor.

• Parmesan gives a crispier edge, while mozzarella makes it more tender.

• Use part-skim for lighter results, or full-fat for richness.

Egg

• Helps hold the crust together during baking.

• Omit if your chicken is especially sticky—but the egg adds stability.

Seasonings

To boost the crust flavor:

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

Don’t skip the seasoning—this gives your crust real pizza flavor.

Toppings

Keep it low-carb with:

• Sugar-free marinara or tomato sauce

• Mozzarella, provolone, or feta cheese

• Pepperoni, cooked sausage, grilled chicken

• Veggies like spinach, mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers

Avoid raw toppings with high water content (like tomatoes or zucchini) unless pre-roasted.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.

Tip: Preheat your sheet in the oven for a crisper bottom.

2. Mix the Chicken Crust

In a large bowl, combine:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan

• 1 egg

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Use clean hands or a spatula to mix until just combined—don’t overwork.

3. Form the Crust

Transfer the chicken mixture to the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Using damp hands or a spatula, press it into a thin, even circle or rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).

Smooth the edges for a neat crust. It should resemble a thin meat patty.

4. Bake the Crust

Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the crust is firm, lightly browned, and cooked through.

Optional: Blot with a paper towel to remove excess moisture or grease.

5. Add Toppings

Remove the crust from the oven. Spread on:

• A few spoonfuls of low-carb marinara

• A layer of shredded mozzarella

• Your favorite toppings

Avoid overloading—it’s still a meat crust and needs balance to stay intact.

6. Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbling.

For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.

7. Slice & Serve

Let cool for 2–3 minutes, then slice into 4–6 pieces with a pizza cutter.

Serve hot, with fresh basil, chili flakes, or grated parmesan if desired.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Extra crispy crust: After baking the crust, flip it and bake 5 more minutes before adding toppings.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the crust.

• Cheesy edge: Add extra cheese to the edge of the crust before the second bake.

• No egg? Omit the egg and add a bit more cheese—it may be slightly more delicate.

• Freeze-friendly: Bake crusts in advance and freeze them plain; add toppings when ready to bake.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Chicken crust pizza is incredibly versatile—great for:

• Low-carb weeknight dinners

• Game-day food

• High-protein meal prep

• Gluten-free pizza nights

Pair with:

• Caesar or arugula salad

• Roasted broccoli or zucchini

• Garlic green beans

• Keto ranch or pesto for dipping

It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but fits clean-eating goals.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This pizza is:

• High in protein (30g+ per serving)

• Low in carbs (2–5g per slice depending on toppings)

• Gluten-free and grain-free

• Keto and paleo-friendly if you skip dairy toppings

To reduce calories or fat:

• Use part-skim cheese

• Load up on veggies

• Keep toppings lean and light

Estimated nutrition per serving (1/4 pizza with cheese & sauce):

• Calories: ~300–350

• Protein: ~32g

• Fat: ~18g

• Carbs: ~3–5g

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the crust without cheese?

Yes, but the cheese helps bind it. If skipping cheese, use 1 tablespoon of almond flour and an extra egg for better structure.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey?

Yes, ground turkey works but may be slightly drier. Use dark meat or add a teaspoon of olive oil.

Q3: How do I keep the crust from being soggy?

Bake it fully before topping, and avoid watery toppings. You can also flip the crust halfway through baking.

Q4: Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes! Bake crusts, cool, and freeze wrapped in parchment. Top and bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 15 minutes.

Q5: Can I grill it?

Yes—use a pizza stone or grill-safe pan. Cook over indirect heat with the lid closed, then top and finish.

Q6: Does it taste like chicken?

Slightly, but with the seasonings and toppings, it tastes more like a crispy, meaty pizza base.

Q7: What sauces are low-carb?

Try sugar-free marinara, pesto, olive tapenade, or garlic cream sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan.

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