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There is something wonderful about pulling a homemade Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from the oven. The creamy ranch base pairs just right with juicy bites of chicken and crunchy bacon over a cheesy, golden crust. This pizza always disappears fast at family gatherings and comes together quickly for those nights when you crave comfort but want something special.
My family asks for this pizza more than any other because it is just that satisfying. I first tried a version of it at a friend’s party years ago and have made tweaks ever since to make it even more crave-worthy.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: You can use a homemade batch or grab a good quality ball from your local bakery or grocery Use dough that feels elastic but not sticky for the best bake
- Ranch dressing: The creamy tang ties everything together Choose a thick full-flavored dressing and save a drizzle for serving
- Cooked chicken: Use up leftover rotisserie chicken or roast your own for extra flavor Chop into small pieces so every bite has plenty of chicken
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded gives you the best melt Look for blocks of mozzarella rather than pre-shredded for a gooier finish
- Bacon: Thick-cut slices work well for extra crunch Bake or pan-fry then crumble so you get bits in every mouthful
- Scallions: Bright green onions add a fresh bite and good color Pick ones with crisp green tops for the nicest garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Oven Hot:
- Set your oven to four hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for a pizza stone or four hundred fifty for a baking sheet Put the rack in the lower third so you get a crispy crust
- Shape the Dough:
- Dust your counter lightly with flour and roll the pizza dough into a large round The dough should be about a quarter inch thick Transfer to a piece of parchment and onto your baking sheet or pizza peel
- Spread the Ranch:
- Spoon the ranch dressing in the center and use the back of a spoon to spread it to the edges Leave a half-inch border so you get a chewy golden crust
- Layer Cheese and Toppings:
- Scatter half the mozzarella cheese over the ranch Spread the cooked chicken evenly so it reaches all the way to the edges Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the chicken so plenty is distributed Then add the rest of the mozzarella on top for extra melty goodness
- Bake Until Perfect:
- Slide the pizza into the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes The crust should be deep golden brown and the cheese should bubble Watch closely at the end so nothing burns
- Garnish and Serve:
- Take the pizza out and let it cool for a minute or two Drizzle more ranch if you want and add lots of sliced scallions Slice into wedges and serve hot
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My favorite part of this pizza is how the bacon crisps on top as it bakes. Once my nephew stole all the bacon off a slice before taking a bite he could not wait. For me a thin layer of sharp scallions makes every piece pop.
Storage Tips
This pizza keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Wrap leftover slices in foil or store in an airtight container For best results reheat in the oven so the crust crisps up again Microwaving is quick but the crust gets soft
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for mozzarella for deeper flavor If you do not have ranch dressing you can whisk together mayo yogurt and a little garlic and dill Leftover turkey or deli meats can be used in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Serve it next to a green salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette For game days plate slices with carrot and celery sticks A squeeze of hot sauce on top brings a fiery kick for spice lovers
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Cultural Notes
Chicken bacon ranch pizza is a classic American creation that brings together three beloved comfort flavors Ranch dressing began as a salad topper in the 1950s but now stars on pizzas subs and salads everywhere
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Use cooked chicken breast or thigh, either shredded or chopped bite-sized. Rotisserie chicken is a quick option.
- → Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough saves time and bakes up nicely. Roll it out as directed for best results.
- → What cheese pairs well besides mozzarella?
Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or sprinkle a little cheddar for a richer flavor profile.
- → How do I keep the crust crisp?
Bake on a preheated pizza stone or place your baking sheet in the lower third of the oven for a crispier base.
- → Is there a substitute for ranch dressing?
For a twist, blend sour cream with fresh herbs and garlic, or use Caesar dressing for a different kick.
- → How should leftovers be reheated?
Reheat slices in a hot oven or skillet to restore the crispness and melt the cheese evenly.