Ultimate Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza: Your Go-To Recipe for Homemade Pizza Night
If you’re searching for the perfect centerpiece for your next family pizza night, look no further than this incredibly flavorful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza. It’s a delightful twist on classic pizza, combining savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing with gooey melted cheese on a perfectly baked crust. Easy to make and bursting with popular flavors, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a homemade pizza from scratch. The aroma filling your kitchen, the control over fresh ingredients, and the joy of customizing every bite—it’s an experience that store-bought simply can’t match. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza takes that experience to the next level with its irresistible combination of ingredients. It’s a favorite in our home, often requested for weekend gatherings and casual dinners.
Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or new to the world of homemade pies, this recipe is designed for success. We’ll guide you through everything from selecting the best ingredients to achieving that perfect golden crust. Be sure to check out our other favorite pizza recipes, like this hearty Deep Dish Three Meat Pizza and the classic Three Cheese Pizza, but for a unique and crowd-pleasing option, this Chicken Bacon Ranch masterpiece is where it’s at!
*Originally published January 2016. Photos and text updated for enhanced clarity and SEO optimization.*
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Are you typically a traditionalist when it comes to pizza, sticking to pepperoni or plain cheese? Or do you enjoy exploring new and exciting flavor combinations? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza is for those who appreciate a delightful departure from the norm. We first tried this flavor profile years ago, and it quickly became an obsession. The marriage of smoky bacon, tender chicken, gloriously gooey cheese, and the cool, zesty kick of creamy ranch dressing is simply a match made in pizza heaven, all piled high on a perfectly chewy crust.
Creating this pizza at home transformed our regular “pizza night in” into something truly special. There’s an undeniable satisfaction that comes from pulling a bubbling, golden-brown pizza straight from your own oven. Plus, it’s a fantastic family activity! My kids absolutely adore helping assemble their own pizzas. Just lay out all the delicious ingredients, offer a little guidance, and watch their culinary creativity shine. It’s a wonderful way to involve them in cooking and make mealtime an interactive, fun experience.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Crafting an exceptional pizza starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for each component:
- Chicken: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, offering juicy, pre-seasoned meat. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works wonderfully, too. Alternatively, simply dice a couple of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sauté or bake them until fully cooked before assembling your pizza. Just ensure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Bacon: Bacon makes everything better, and this pizza is no exception! Its salty, smoky, and crispy texture provides a crucial contrast to the creamy ranch and tender chicken. For best results, cook your bacon until perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces. You can cook it in a pan, in the oven, or even in the microwave, whichever method you prefer for ultimate crispiness.
- Ranch Dressing: This is the signature sauce that ties all the flavors together. You can use your family’s favorite store-bought brand for convenience, but for an truly elevated experience, I highly recommend trying our Homemade Buttermilk Ranch. The fresh herbs and rich buttermilk create a vibrant flavor that will make your pizza unforgettable. Be sure to use a thick enough ranch so it doesn’t make your crust soggy.
- Cheese: When it comes to pizza, cheese is paramount. Shredded mozzarella is a classic choice for its incredible melt and mild flavor, providing that satisfying cheese pull. However, don’t be afraid to experiment! Monterey Jack can add a creamier texture, while pepper jack offers a subtle spicy kick. One crucial tip: please, please, please grate your own cheese! Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which prevent it from melting smoothly and can leave a grainy texture. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, yielding that perfectly gooey, delicious result you crave.
- Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza! While store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option and perfectly acceptable, making your own is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Our Homemade Pizza Dough recipe is easy to follow and produces an incomparably fresh, flavorful crust.
Mastering Homemade Pizza Dough
Let’s take a moment to discuss pizza dough. Many people are intimidated by making dough from scratch, especially when it involves yeast. But trust me, homemade pizza crust is far easier than you think and an excellent starting point if you’re new to baking with yeast. I make my Homemade Pizza Dough every single time we have pizza night, and here’s why:
- Super Easy to Make: It truly is beginner-friendly, requiring minimal kneading and simple steps.
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
- No Hard-to-Find Ingredients: Just flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of olive oil.
- Perfect Texture: It yields a crust that is delightfully crisp on the outside and wonderfully soft and chewy on the inside.
- Versatility: You can easily adapt it to create either a thick, satisfying crust or a thin, crispy base, depending on your preference.
For consistent results, I prefer using Red Star All-Natural Active Dry Yeast. Their commitment to all-natural ingredients means their yeast is pure, without any additives. They also offer a Platinum line, which is fantastic for beginners, as it includes dough improvers that help take the guesswork out of working with yeast, ensuring a perfect rise every time. Give it a try – you’ll be amazed at how simple and rewarding it is to make your own dough!
Serving Suggestions for Your Pizza Night
While this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza is a meal in itself, pairing it with a fresh side can elevate your entire dining experience. Here are some of our favorite accompaniments:
- Simple Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce, savory dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
- Green Salad with Homemade Buttermilk Ranch: A fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy ranch dressing (perhaps even your own homemade version!) complements the pizza beautifully.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: For those who can’t get enough cheese, a side of warm, garlicky, cheesy breadsticks is always a welcome addition.
- Fresh Fruit Slices: A light and sweet fruit salad, perhaps with berries, melon, or grapes, offers a refreshing palate cleanser.
Customization and Variations
One of the best parts about homemade pizza is the ability to customize it to your heart’s content. Here are a few ideas to make this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza uniquely yours:
- Add Vegetables: Diced red onion, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach can add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on top can add a fiery kick for those who like it spicy.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations. A mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone can create a complex flavor profile.
- Different Proteins: While chicken and bacon are classic, consider adding smoked turkey or ham for a different twist.
- BBQ Ranch: Swap out some of the ranch for BBQ sauce, or mix BBQ sauce into the ranch for a tangy, smoky base.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza tastes just as good the next day, if not better. To store, simply place individual slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For reheating, avoid the microwave if you want a crispy crust. The best methods include:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is crisp.
- Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add pizza slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy. Add a few drops of water to the pan (away from the pizza) and cover with a lid for another 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and steam the toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this pizza ahead of time? You can prepare the pizza dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time. Assemble the pizza just before baking for the freshest taste.
- What if I don’t have a pizza stone? A heavy-duty baking sheet or an inverted baking sheet works perfectly fine. For an extra crispy crust, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before placing the pizza on it.
- How do I prevent a soggy crust? Ensure your dough is rolled to an even thickness. Don’t overload the pizza with too many toppings, and if using a very wet ranch, consider dabbing off excess liquid from the chicken if it’s super juicy. Baking at a high temperature also helps crisp the crust quickly.
- Can I freeze this pizza? Yes! You can freeze individual slices or an unbaked pizza. For unbaked, assemble and then freeze on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Bake from frozen at the recommended temperature, adding extra baking time as needed.
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pound (550g) homemade pizza dough or store bought
- ⅔ cup (155ml) ranch dressing
- 3 cups (340g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups (200g) chopped cooked chicken
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven while preheating.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to about a 13-15 inch circle, depending on your desired crust thickness. Carefully transfer the dough to a pizza pan or a piece of parchment paper if using a pizza stone.
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Evenly spread the ranch dressing over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Generously sprinkle with your freshly grated mozzarella cheese. Then, distribute the chopped cooked chicken and crumbled bacon over the cheese.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Cooking time may vary based on your oven and desired crispness. Let the pizza rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or simply sautéed chicken breasts all work wonderfully. Ensure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Ranch: Use your family’s favorite store-bought brand, or for an elevated flavor, try our Homemade Buttermilk Ranch.
- Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, we strongly recommend grating your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that hinder proper melting. Feel free to experiment with a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of pepper jack.
- Nutrition facts: Since different brands of ingredients have different nutritional information, the information shown is just an estimate.
Serving Suggestions:
- Simple Caesar Salad
- Green Salad with Homemade Buttermilk Ranch
- Cheesy Breadsticks
- Fresh fruit slices
Nutrition