Flatbread pizzas are one of the easiest ways to enjoy a delicious, gourmet-style meal without the hassle of making traditional pizza dough. This cheesy spinach and chicken flatbread pizza offers the perfect blend of creamy, gooey cheeses, tender chicken, fresh baby spinach, and a touch of sweetness from caramelized onions. With a crispy tortilla or flatbread as the base, this dish is both quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, making it a fantastic option for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe, complete with tips, variations, and answers to your most common questions!
Ingredients
For the Topping Mixture
- 1 small chicken breast (approximately 150g) – Cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves – Fresh greens that add flavor and nutrition.
- ⅓ cup sweet onion, sliced – Thin slices that caramelize beautifully in the oven.
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds depth and savory notes to the toppings.
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Enhances the texture and flavor of the topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.
For Assembly
- 1 flour tortilla (9-inch) or any flatbread – Serves as the crispy base for the pizza.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a rich, gooey topping.
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese – Provides a sharp, nutty contrast.
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil – To brush over the tortilla for added crispiness.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Topping Mixture
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Cook the Chicken:
Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken breast until fully cooked, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Allow it to cool slightly, then dice it into bite-sized pieces. -
Slice and Prep Vegetables:
Thinly slice the sweet onion for even cooking. Measure out the baby spinach leaves and ensure they’re washed and dried. -
Combine Topping Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, spinach leaves, sliced onion, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly with oil and seasonings.
Step 2: Assemble the Flatbread Pizza
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Preheat the Oven:
If using a toaster oven, remove the rack and preheat to 420°F (215°C). For a conventional oven, preheat to the same temperature and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Prepare the Base:
Place the tortilla or flatbread on the parchment-lined rack or baking sheet. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil, leaving a small border around the edges to ensure a crisp crust. -
Layer the Cheese:
Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tortilla or flatbread. -
Add the Toppings:
Distribute the topping mixture across the layer of mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even spread of chicken, spinach, and onions. Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the top for a finishing touch. -
Optional Egg Center:
For added richness, make a small well in the center of the toppings and crack an egg into it. This step is optional but adds a visually appealing and delicious element to the pizza.
Step 3: Bake
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Bake the Pizza:
Place the flatbread pizza in the oven or toaster oven on the middle rack. Bake at 420°F (215°C) for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, the toppings are slightly golden, and the edges of the tortilla are crisp. -
Cool Slightly:
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 1–2 minutes to set the cheese before slicing.
Cooking Tips
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Crispier Base:
For an extra crispy crust, brush both sides of the tortilla or flatbread with olive oil before adding the toppings. -
Caramelized Onions:
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, sauté the onions in a pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the topping mixture. -
Experiment with Cheese:
While mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or cheddar for unique flavor combinations. -
Herbs for Flavor:
Add a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs, like oregano or basil, over the toppings before baking for a burst of flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
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Vegetarian Option:
Omit the chicken and replace it with extra vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. -
Gluten-Free Option:
Use a gluten-free tortilla or flatbread to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. -
Spicy Twist:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping mixture or use jalapeño slices for a spicy kick. -
BBQ Flavor:
Swap the garlic powder for BBQ seasoning and use a drizzle of BBQ sauce on the base instead of olive oil. -
Breakfast Version:
Add crumbled sausage and top with eggs for a hearty breakfast pizza.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, is a convenient option. Simply shred or chop it before mixing with the toppings.
What can I use instead of spinach?
Arugula, kale, or thinly sliced zucchini are excellent alternatives to spinach, offering similar texture and flavor.
How can I ensure the tortilla doesn’t get soggy?
Brushing the tortilla with olive oil before adding toppings creates a barrier and helps maintain its crispness.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prepare the topping mixture and assemble the pizza in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To retain crispness, reheat leftover pizza in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fats: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
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Refrigeration:
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. -
Freezing:
Freeze the baked flatbread pizza for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Cheesy spinach and chicken flatbread pizza is a versatile, quick, and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Its crispy base, creamy cheeses, tender chicken, and fresh spinach make it a delightful option for any meal. Whether you’re whipping up a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it with different toppings and variations to discover your favorite combination, and enjoy every bite!