Looking for a pizza that’s healthy, delicious, and different from the usual fare? This Chicken Avocado Pizza recipe combines creamy avocado spread, savory chicken, and Monterey Jack cheese for a delightful, California-inspired twist. Perfect as a light meal or a nutritious snack, this pizza offers a dairy-free, high-protein alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients for Chicken Avocado Pizza
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 clove garlic, peeled
- 4 pre-baked 7-inch pizza crusts (use gluten-free if desired)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions: How to Make Chicken Avocado Pizza
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pizza Stone
Preheat the oven’s broiler. For optimal results, place a pizza stone in the oven as it heats, which will create a crispier crust and better overall texture.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Spread
In a food processor, combine the diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Puree until smooth, then add salt to taste. Set the avocado mixture aside, covering it to keep it fresh.
Step 3: Prep the Pizza Crusts
Slice the garlic clove in half and rub the cut side on the top of each pizza crust to infuse flavor. Brush both sides of the crusts with olive oil to enhance crispness and flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a thick layer of the avocado mixture evenly over each crust. Top with chopped chicken breast and quartered cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top and add a light dash of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a hint of heat.
Step 5: Broil the Pizza
Place the pizzas on a baking sheet if you’re not using a pizza stone. Broil them for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and the crust turns golden. Keep an eye on the broiler, as it can work quickly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Take the pizzas out, let them cool slightly, then cut and serve! Enjoy your flavorful, nutritious Chicken Avocado Pizza with family or friends.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Avocado Pizza
This pizza offers a high-protein, dairy-free option that’s packed with healthy fats from avocado. Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamins C, E, and K, and are low in carbs, making them a keto-friendly choice. With added protein from chicken breast, this pizza keeps you full longer and supports muscle health and repair.
Why Avocado Instead of Pizza Sauce?
Using avocado as a base for pizza adds a creamy, rich texture without the need for traditional pizza sauce. It’s lower in carbs and sugars, making it ideal for anyone seeking a low-carb, gut-friendly, and keto-compatible recipe. Avocado’s healthy fats support gut health and digestion, helping maintain a balanced microbiome.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free pizza crust.
- Plant-Based Cheese: For those who prefer to go dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
- Additional Toppings: Add more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or red onion for extra nutrients.
Health Benefits of a High-Protein, Dairy-Free Pizza
This Chicken Avocado Pizza aligns with several dietary needs:
- High-Protein: Supports muscle recovery and satiety.
- Dairy-Free: Ideal for lactose-intolerant individuals or those avoiding dairy.
- Low-Carb: Great for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado provides fats that can reduce inflammation and improve heart health.