Chicken Crust Pizza (Easy Low Carb Recipe)

When you’re craving pizza but watching your carbs, chicken crust pizza is the game-changing answer. Instead of a traditional dough base, this easy low-carb recipe uses ground chicken to form a high-protein, gluten-free crust that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Chicken crust pizza has become a favorite among keto and paleo eaters for its simplicity and adaptability. It’s crisp on the edges, sturdy enough to hold all your toppings, and surprisingly delicious — no flour required.

Whether you’re cutting carbs or just want a new twist on pizza night, this recipe delivers bold flavor without sacrificing your dietary goals.

Ingredients Overview

This crust is made from just a few wholesome ingredients and comes together quickly. Here’s what goes into it and why:

Ground Chicken

The star of the crust. Ground chicken forms a protein-rich, pliable base that crisps up beautifully when baked.

Alternative: Ground turkey works just as well.

Pro Tip: Use 90–93% lean meat for the right balance of moisture and structure. Too much fat can make the crust soggy.

Egg

Acts as a binder to hold the chicken and seasonings together. One large egg is enough to keep the crust cohesive.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated parmesan adds saltiness and umami while helping the crust firm up and brown.

Option: Mozzarella or a blend of hard cheeses can be used, but parmesan yields the best crisp texture.

Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning

These seasonings infuse the crust with pizza-worthy flavor. Italian seasoning brings in classic herbs like oregano and basil.

Add-ins: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or onion powder for extra depth.

Salt & Pepper

A little seasoning goes a long way — remember, cheese and toppings will also add saltiness.

Pizza Sauce

Use a sugar-free or homemade marinara for a low-carb option. Spoon it on after the crust is baked once (parbaked).

Shredded Mozzarella

For gooey, stretchy topping magic. Whole milk mozzarella melts better, but part-skim is fine too.

Toppings of Choice

Go traditional with pepperoni or veggie-loaded with bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives. Just keep toppings light to avoid weighing down the crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease it.

2. Mix the Chicken Crust Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 large egg

• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Hands or a spatula work best.

3. Shape the Crust

• Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan.

• Press into a flat, even circle about ¼ inch thick.

• Keep edges slightly thicker to help hold toppings.

Tip: Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking while shaping.

4. Bake the Crust

• Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden and set.

• It should be firm enough to lift at the edges with a spatula.

Optional: Flip the crust gently and bake an additional 3–5 minutes for a crispier base.

5. Add Toppings

• Spread a few tablespoons of low-carb pizza sauce over the crust.

• Sprinkle with ¾ to 1 cup shredded mozzarella.

• Add any desired toppings (pre-cooked if needed).

6. Final Bake

• Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Broil for 1–2 minutes for golden cheese, watching carefully.

7. Slice & Serve

Let cool for 3–5 minutes before slicing. The crust will firm up as it rests.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Expert Tips

• Drain excess liquid: If your chicken releases moisture, blot gently with paper towels before topping.

• Don’t overload toppings: Keep it light so the crust stays crisp.

• Use parchment: It prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy.

Flavor Variations

• Buffalo Style: Toss shredded chicken in buffalo sauce before forming crust. Top with mozzarella and blue cheese crumbles.

• BBQ Chicken: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce, red onion, and cilantro.

• Greek-Inspired: Add feta, olives, spinach, and artichokes.

• Spicy Sausage: Mix sausage into the crust or use spicy toppings.

Substitutions

• Ground turkey for chicken

• Vegan cheese for dairy-free

• Almond flour or flaxseed meal to bulk up the crust slightly (optional)

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Chicken crust pizza is perfect for:

• Keto meal prep – reheats well and travels great

• Family pizza night – customize with toppings

• Low-carb lunch – slice and pack for work

• Weekend treat – feels indulgent without the carb crash

Serve with:

• A green side salad

• Garlic sautéed zucchini or spinach

• Cauliflower “breadsticks” or veggie fries

For drinks, try sparkling water with lemon, a crisp light beer (if not strict keto), or chilled herbal tea.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This pizza is loaded with protein and completely gluten-free. With the crust made from chicken and egg, it’s ideal for those following:

• Keto

• Low-carb

• Paleo

• Gluten-free

• Diabetic-friendly

Each serving (1/4 of a 10–12″ pizza) typically provides:

• Calories: ~300–350

• Protein: 30–35g

• Fat: 18–22g

• Net carbs: 3–5g (depending on sauce and toppings)

Use sugar-free sauce and whole milk cheese to stay within low-carb goals.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned chicken for the crust?
A1: Yes, drain very well and shred finely. It works in a pinch, but the texture is softer than ground raw chicken.

Q2: Does the crust taste like chicken?
A2: Slightly, but it’s well-balanced with cheese and seasonings. Once topped, it tastes just like a thin, savory pizza.

Q3: Can I freeze chicken crust pizza?
A3: Yes. Bake the crust, cool completely, and freeze plain or topped. Reheat in a 375°F oven until hot and crisp.

Q4: How do I make the crust crispier?
A4: Bake longer, flip halfway through, and avoid soggy toppings. Broiling at the end also adds crisp edges.

Q5: What cheese is best for melting?
A5: Mozzarella (whole milk) melts beautifully. Combine with provolone or Monterey Jack for extra stretch.

Q6: Is this crust keto-approved?
A6: Absolutely. It’s very low in carbs and high in fat and protein, perfect for ketogenic diets.

Q7: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A7: Yes, but use 93% lean to prevent dryness. Add a bit more cheese or olive oil to boost flavor and moisture.

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