If you’re looking for the ultimate game day treat or a family pizza night showstopper, Buffalo Chicken Pizza is ready to bring major flavor and fun. This pie takes all the crave-worthy kick of classic Buffalo wings and transforms it into cheesy, finger-licking pizza bliss. Imagine tangy buffalo sauce, creamy blue cheese, melty mozzarella, and a pillow-soft yet crispy crust—topped with juicy chicken and a rainbow of fresh garnishes. It’s comfort food with an attitude, and every bite is a celebration of bold taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Buffalo Chicken Pizza is short, sweet, and totally approachable, but every single component earns its spot! Each ingredient brings something special—flavor, color, creaminess, crunch—so don’t skip anything if you want that irresistible restaurant-quality result.
- Shredded chicken, 1 ½ cups: Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken for convenience and juiciness.
- Buffalo sauce, 1/3 cup (plus more to drizzle): The signature tangy-heat combo that gives this pizza its personality.
- Blue cheese dressing, ¼ cup (divided): This creamy, salty element balances the spice; ranch can work too if you prefer.
- Pizza dough, 1 lb (room temp): Room temperature dough is relaxed and easier to stretch for that perfect, pillowy base.
- Pizza sauce, 1/2 cup: A simple tomato sauce anchors the flavors and keeps every bite moist and flavorful.
- Mozzarella cheese, 1 ½ cups: Melts into stretchy, cheesy perfection to complement the bold buffalo flavors.
- Red onions, ¼ cup (thinly sliced): A fresh, subtle bite and beautiful color on top of the pizza.
- Banana pepper rings, ¼ cup (patted dry): Bright, tangy slices that keep this pizza playful and well-balanced.
- Melted butter, 1 tablespoon: Brushed on the crust for that irresistible golden finish.
- Parmesan, 1 teaspoon (grated): Adds cheesy, umami depth to the edges.
- Garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon: For that little extra savory pop in every bite.
- Chives/Green Onions: Fresh and colorful, they brighten up the final pizza.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For folks who love a fiery kick.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of freshness and color to finish things off.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Step 1: Heat Things Up
Start by preheating your oven to 450° F to make sure you get that lovely golden crust. If you have a pizza stone, pop it in while the oven preheats. The stone stores heat like a champ, helping your Buffalo Chicken Pizza cook evenly and develop a crispy, bakery-style bottom crust.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce and just a little blue cheese dressing—about a tablespoon—so every bite is packed with punchy, creamy flavor. Letting it sit for a few minutes really lets the sauce soak in while you prep the rest.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
On a lightly greased 12-inch pizza pan, gently spread out the pizza dough. If your dough feels stretchy and stubborn, let it sit at room temp for a few more minutes. Poke a few holes in the dough with a fork—this prevents big air bubbles from puffing up as the Buffalo Chicken Pizza bakes.
Step 4: Sauce and Cheese Base
Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a border for a nice crust. Scatter most of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce; this delicious, melty layer will hold the toppings in place and offer those beautiful cheese pulls when you slice.
Step 5: Chicken and Veggie Toppings
Evenly distribute the marinated chicken over the pizza, then add your red onion slices and banana pepper rings. Add the last of your mozzarella over the top so everything melds together as it bakes.
Step 6: Drizzle Flavors
Give your pizza incredible pizzazz by drizzling about 3 tablespoons more blue cheese dressing and a good spoonful or two of extra buffalo sauce right on top. This step makes every bite luscious and perfectly sauced.
Step 7: First Bake
Bake your Buffalo Chicken Pizza for 13 minutes in the preheated oven. The cheese will bubble, the crust will set, and the aromas will have everyone circling the kitchen.
Step 8: Flavorful Crust Boost
Mix the melted butter, Parmesan, and garlic powder, then brush this heavenly mixture around the crust. This extra step transforms the edges into the kind of buttery, garlicky breadstick you always fight over, then return the pizza to the oven for another 2–3 minutes until perfectly golden.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once the Buffalo Chicken Pizza is out of the oven, it’s time for those finishing touches! Sprinkle with fresh chives or green onions, maybe a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, and parsley for a hit of color. Now slice, serve, and watch this pizza disappear.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Garnishes
The final flourish makes all the difference! Top your warm Buffalo Chicken Pizza with plenty of fresh green onions, a smattering of parsley, and a shake of red pepper flakes if you like it hot. Want a little more zing? Drizzle a touch of extra buffalo sauce or some blue cheese dressing right before serving for an authentic, over-the-top finish.
Side Dishes
No pizza party is complete without something fresh and crunchy on the side. A crisp celery and carrot salad tossed in ranch or blue cheese echoes classic Buffalo wings. Or try a simple garden salad with sharp vinaigrette to balance out all the rich, cheesy goodness of your Buffalo Chicken Pizza. Garlic knots or breadsticks also make the meal feel extra indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Buffalo Chicken Pizza into thin strips for a fun appetizer platter or slice it big and wide for hearty main servings. Serve it on a wooden pizza board with bowls of extra sauces for dipping—think ranch, blue cheese, or more buffalo! Try topping individual slices with fresh arugula or pickled jalapeños for a “build your own” experience at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any Buffalo Chicken Pizza left, let the slices cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil. Stash them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. That way, you can look forward to an easy, delicious lunch or snack later in the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can absolutely freeze Buffalo Chicken Pizza! Arrange cooled slices on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. This is awesome for meal prepping or having a quick treat on hand.
Reheating
The best way to revive leftover Buffalo Chicken Pizza is in a hot oven or toaster oven, around 375° F for 8–10 minutes. This crisps the crust and ensures the cheese is melty again—so much better than a soggy microwave reheat. For ultimate freshness, add a little extra sprinkle of cheese or drizzle of sauce before serving once reheated.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is not only convenient but also deliciously tender. Just shred it and toss with the sauce as instructed for a wonderfully juicy result.
Is there a good substitute for blue cheese dressing?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, ranch dressing is an excellent alternative that still offers a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce on your Buffalo Chicken Pizza.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the standard pizza dough for your favorite gluten-free dough. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss a thing flavor-wise.
Can I add extra veggies on top?
Definitely! Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a blank canvas for your veggie cravings—bell peppers, jalapeños, or even a few spinach leaves work beautifully. Just be careful not to overload the pizza, so the crust bakes up nice and crisp.
What’s the best cheese mix for Buffalo Chicken Pizza?
Classic mozzarella is a must for that melty stretch, but feel free to add a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra richness. The blue cheese dressing on top really seals the Buffalo Chicken flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Chicken Pizza is one of those crowd-pleasing recipes you’ll come back to all year round. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for parties, and always delivers that magical combination of spicy, cheesy, tangy, and fresh in every slice. Gather your favorite people, fire up the oven, and get ready to fall in love with pizza night all over again!
