Pizza with ham and chicken breast
Ham and Chicken Pizza – A Delicacy for Any Occasion
Pizza is undoubtedly one of the most beloved dishes around the world. Its origins are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, and today it symbolizes conviviality and the joy of enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones. This ham and chicken pizza recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make, perfect for a family dinner or a night with friends. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfectly crispy pizza with delicious toppings and enticing aromas.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 5-6 tablespoons of wheat flour (choose type 00 flour for a finer texture)
- A pinch of salt
- 100-150 ml of lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 10 g of fresh yeast
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for a richer taste)
For the sauce:
- 100 ml of ketchup (you can also use natural tomato sauce for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of oregano (dried)
- 1 teaspoon of basil (dried or fresh, as preferred)
For the toppings:
- ½ chicken breast (about 200 g)
- 150 g of ham (choose a high-quality ham for better taste)
- 3 mushrooms (preferably champignon, for flavor)
- ½ red bell pepper (fresh, sliced)
- 100 g of cheese (grated, preferably aged cheese)
Preparation Steps
1. Making the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. In another container, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an important step as it ensures the yeast is activated.
Add the yeast mixture to the flour, pouring the water gradually, and start mixing. When the dough becomes homogeneous, add the olive oil and knead for 5-7 minutes until you achieve an elastic and smooth consistency.
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.
2. Preparing the sauce
Meanwhile, you can prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, add the ketchup and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This will intensify the flavors and give the sauce a more pleasant consistency.
3. Preparing the toppings
Cut the chicken breast into cubes, and slice the mushrooms and bell pepper thinly. You can cut the ham into strips or cubes, as preferred. These ingredients will add the desired texture and flavor to the pizza.
4. Assembling the pizza
Preheat the oven to 220°C (or max for electric ovens). Sprinkle the work surface with flour and roll out the dough into a thin sheet, adapting it to the size of the pizza tray. Place the dough in the tray, making sure to slightly raise the edges to create a small border.
Pour the sauce over the dough, spreading it evenly. Add the ham and chicken cubes, followed by the mushrooms and bell pepper. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top, ensuring an even coverage over the entire pizza.
5. Baking the pizza
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough turns golden and crispy, and the cheese melts and becomes slightly browned. This is when the aroma of the pizza will fill the entire kitchen!
6. Serving
Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into slices and serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
Practical Tips
- Choosing ingredients: For a more refined taste, opt for prosciutto ham or marinated chicken.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with feta cheese or marinated tofu.
- Preparing in advance: The dough can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered. Bring it to room temperature before using.
Nutritional Benefits
This pizza is a good source of protein thanks to the chicken breast and cheese. Additionally, fresh vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Using whole wheat flour can further enhance the nutritional profile by adding fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use about 3 g of dry yeast.
2. What can I do with leftover pizza?
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated. It is delicious the next day!
3. What drinks pair well with pizza?
Pizza pairs excellently with a cold beer or a light red wine. Additionally, a cocktail with lemon and basil can add a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
This ham and chicken pizza is an excellent choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare, full of flavors, and adaptable to everyone’s tastes, it will surely become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and sauces to find the perfect combination that delights your taste buds!
Ingredients: DOUGH 5-6 tablespoons flour a pinch of salt 100-150 ml warm water 10 g fresh yeast one tablespoon oilSAUCE 100 ml ketchup salt pepper oregano basilWE ALSO NEED half a chicken breast 150 g ham 3 mushrooms half a red bell pepper 100 g cheese
