This Tzatziki Chicken & Veggie Naan Pizza offers the perfect balance of creamy tzatziki, tender chicken, and fresh Mediterranean veggies, all served on soft naan bread. The combination of bold Mediterranean flavors and the ease of naan bread as a pizza base makes this a go-to for busy weeknights, parties, or lunch. Let’s dive deeper into the steps for this quick, delicious, and satisfying pizza!
Ingredients
This recipe combines common Mediterranean ingredients, perfect for anyone looking to explore new flavors without any complicated steps.
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast – Choose fresh chicken for better flavor. You can cut the chicken into cubes or thin strips for easy cooking and a more pizza-friendly bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the chicken, adding flavor and helping it cook evenly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This classic seasoning adds a savory depth to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A staple in Mediterranean cooking, this herb gives the chicken its signature flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Provides color and a subtle smoky kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasoning to bring everything together.
For the Pizza:
- 4 pieces naan bread – This soft, chewy bread forms the base of the pizza. You can use store-bought naan for ease, or you can find a variety of naan flavors like garlic or whole wheat for a unique twist.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce – A creamy, tangy cucumber yogurt sauce that is the base for this pizza. It’s a lighter, fresher alternative to tomato sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) – This is optional for those who enjoy a cheesy pizza. If you’re going for a lighter version or want a more Mediterranean feel, you can skip the cheese.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds sweetness and juiciness, making the pizza bright and fresh.
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices – Fresh cucumbers enhance the texture and give the pizza crunch.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion – These onions bring a mild yet zesty bite that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the tzatziki.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – A salty, tangy cheese that completes the Mediterranean flavor profile.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh dill or parsley – These herbs brighten the pizza and bring a refreshing finish.
- Lemon wedges – Squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice on top of the pizza adds a burst of tang that balances the richness of the tzatziki.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook them for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You can stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, making sure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the spices.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Naan Pizza Base:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place your naan bread on a baking sheet. You can line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- If you’re using larger naan bread, you can cut it into halves or quarters to create personal-sized pizzas.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread 1/4 cup of tzatziki sauce over each naan bread. Use the back of a spoon to spread the sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Distribute the cooked chicken evenly over the tzatziki sauce. The chicken should be scattered in an even layer so each slice has some in every bite.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. These toppings will give the pizza a fresh, Mediterranean flavor.
- Optional: If you want a cheesier version, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the toppings. This step adds a gooey layer, but for a lighter, more Mediterranean dish, you can skip it.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Place the assembled naan pizzas into the preheated oven. Bake for about 8–10 minutes, or until the edges of the naan are golden and crispy, and the cheese (if used) is melted.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking. The naan should be crispy, but the veggies should still retain their fresh crunch.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley to add a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side, and squeeze them over the pizza just before eating for an extra pop of tanginess.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pizza with a side salad like a classic Greek salad or a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Serve it with a side of hummus and pita bread for an added Mediterranean touch.
- This is also great as an appetizer for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party or casual lunch.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, good-quality chicken for the best texture and flavor. If you’re in a rush, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can work as well.
- Customizing the pizza: Add other Mediterranean toppings like olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted peppers to make it your own.
- Crispy naan: For extra crispness, you can toast the naan for a minute or two in a dry pan before adding the toppings.
- Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of harissa or chili flakes to kick up the heat if you prefer a spicier flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
- Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of tzatziki, chicken, and fresh veggies brings out rich and tangy Mediterranean flavors.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences — add extra vegetables, switch up the protein, or top with different cheeses.
- Light and Refreshing: With fresh veggies and tzatziki, this pizza is both satisfying and light, offering a healthier twist on traditional pizza.
Enjoy this Tzatziki Chicken & Veggie Naan Pizza for a quick, delicious meal that offers Mediterranean flavors in every bite!