Cranberry Chicken and Brie Pizza
This gourmet-style pizza combines the savory tenderness of grilled chicken with the creamy richness of brie cheese and the sweet-tart punch of cranberry sauce. A perfect balance of flavors, it’s a festive yet simple dish ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or a cozy weeknight treat.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade) – about 12 inches
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
4 oz (115 g) brie cheese, sliced (rind on or off, your preference)
½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
Fresh thyme leaves – for garnish
Salt & pepper – to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Prepare the crust: Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
Layer the toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese as the base layer, then add chicken pieces evenly over the pizza. Arrange brie slices on top.
Season: Lightly season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving for an herbal freshness.
Slice & Serve immediately while warm.
Notes & Tips
Cranberry Sauce Tip: A chunky homemade cranberry sauce works best for texture.
Brie Choice: You can use double or triple cream brie for a richer flavor.
Chicken Prep: Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly here.
Make it Festive: Add a sprinkle of crushed walnuts or pomegranate seeds before serving for color and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add sauteed mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for a hearty texture.
Q: Can I use another cheese instead of brie?
A: Camembert is the closest substitute, but goat cheese also pairs beautifully with cranberry.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead?
A: Assemble the pizza without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Bake just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 19 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 9 g
Sodium: 560 mg