Chicken Crust Pizza: High-Protein, Low-Carb & Ready in 35 Minutes

Chicken Crust Pizza is the ultimate game-changer if you’ve ever wished pizza could double as a protein bomb without the guilt. This article walks you through everything you need to know about chicken crust pizza from how it works, why it’s trending, to tips for getting it perfectly crispy and delicious every time. Whether you’re watching carbs, chasing macros, or just looking for a lighter Friday night fix, this chicken pizza crust delivers major satisfaction. Let’s kick off with the story behind the recipe and why it belongs in your weekly rotation.

Chicken crust pizza with mozzarella, pepperoni, and basil
Chicken crust pizza topped with mozzarella, pepperoni, and hot honey
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Chicken Crust Pizza: High-Protein, Low-Carb & Ready in 35 Minutes

High-protein, low-carb chicken crust pizza with 180g protein. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—done in 35 minutes.

  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min
  • Total Time: 35 min
  • Yield: 1 pizza (8 slices) 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

450 g (1 lb) ground chicken

2 eggs

1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup pizza sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella

15 slices pepperoni

2 green onions, sliced

Hot honey (for drizzling)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix chicken, eggs, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread the mixture into a thin, even crust on the prepared sheet.

4. Bake for 25 minutes until golden.

5. Let crust rest for 5 minutes.

6. Raise oven temp to 425°F (220°C). Top with sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, and green onions.

7. Bake 10 more minutes until cheese melts.

8. Broil 1–2 minutes for bubbly top. Watch closely.

9. Drizzle with hot honey, add basil, slice and serve.

Notes

Let crust cool slightly before slicing to firm up texture.

For meal prep, bake the crust and freeze it without toppings.

Use regular—not extra lean—ground chicken for best results.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 slices
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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Chicken Crust Pizza Inspiration & My Kitchen Story

From Freezer Pizza to High-Protein Crust Mastery

Hi! I’m Lina, from just outside Asheville, NC. I’ll be honest I didn’t grow up loving to cook. In my 20s, I lived off frozen pizza, boxed mac, and drive-thru everything. But once I had kids, I realized dinnertime could be more than a scramble. It could be grounding. Even joyful. And that’s what led me, years later, to this chicken crust pizza.

You know those nights when your body says “pizza,” but your goals say “protein shake”? That was me, again and again. One night, scrolling through recipes, I saw someone press ground chicken into a crust and I thought wait, that’s brilliant. A little skeptical? Sure. But I gave it a shot, and let me tell you this recipe earned its spot in our regular lineup.

Why Chicken Pizza Crust is Blowing Up

There’s a reason chicken crust pizza is having a moment online it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with protein (this version clocks in at a whopping 180g of protein for the whole pie). That’s not a typo. No flour, no weird add-ins just ground chicken, eggs, and parmesan forming a sturdy, golden base.

The crust gets delightfully crisp at the edges while staying juicy in the center. And because it’s neutral in flavor, it plays well with bold sauces and gooey cheese. Pair it with a refreshing drink like this 4-ingredient pink salt recipe for a post-workout dinner that hits every note.

I’ve tested this recipe a dozen times, and these little tweaks make a big difference. Use a silicone spatula for a perfect crust spread. Don’t underbake. And always finish with something fresh like hot honey and basil to bring it to life.

It’s the kind of dish that surprises people. My husband, who once confused simmering with sautéing, now asks for “the protein pizza” weekly. The kids? Total fans. Honestly, it feels like I’m getting away with something delicious and good for me. That’s the magic of chicken crust pizza.

Chicken Crust Pizza Essentials & Pro Tips

The Chicken Crust: What It’s Made Of and Why It Works

Let’s break down why this chicken crust pizza is more than just a gimmick it’s a genuinely smart swap. Instead of a carb-heavy dough, this crust is built on ground chicken, eggs, and parmesan cheese. That combo creates a flexible, protein-dense base that mimics dough’s sturdiness without any flour.

Here’s how it comes together:

  • Ground chicken: Regular ground chicken (not extra lean) gives the best texture and moisture. A little fat helps the crust hold up and taste amazing.
  • Eggs: Essential binders. They help the crust keep its shape when sliced.
  • Parmesan: Adds a salty kick and crisps beautifully during baking.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper round it out. Want a flavor boost? Try Italian seasoning.

You’ll mix it all in one bowl, spread it thin about ¼ to ½ inch on parchment paper, and bake until golden. No rising, no kneading. Just honest-to-goodness ease. Compared to grain-based crusts or cauliflower alternatives, it’s firmer, heartier, and higher in protein. Perfect for keto, gluten-free eaters, or anyone chasing macro goals.

Want even more high-protein hacks? Check out these cottage cheese egg bites they’re meal prep gold.

Tips for a Crust That Doesn’t Fall Apart (or Sog Out)

One of the biggest concerns with chicken crust pizza is sogginess. Here’s how to guarantee a crispy outcome:

  1. Don’t use extra lean meat: It’s too dry and won’t bind as well.
  2. Bake long enough: 25 minutes at 400°F ensures it firms up before you add toppings.
  3. Let it rest: After the first bake, rest it on the pan for 5 minutes. It finishes cooking and sets.
  4. Use parchment paper: Not foil, not bare pan this ensures easy release.
  5. Broil to finish: Once you’ve topped it, broil for 1–2 minutes. That gets you bubbly cheese and toasty edges.

Looking for another genius swap that’ll surprise you? This cottage cheese pizza crust recipe will change everything you thought you knew about alternative doughs.

Ultimately, this crust stands up to whatever you pile on top. Think of it like a blank canvas that just happens to be wildly nutritious. It’s indulgent and functional a rare combo in weeknight cooking.

Toppings, Variations & Meal Prep Magic

Build Your Perfect Chicken Crust Pizza (Toppings That Slap)

Now for the fun part toppings. This chicken crust pizza is as versatile as it gets. Once the crust is baked and ready, you can layer it up just like a traditional pie.

Here’s my go-to combo that never fails:

  • Pizza sauce: Keep it simple. I like a no-sugar-added marinara.
  • Mozzarella: Melts like a dream. You can go full-fat or part-skim.
  • Pepperoni: Classic for a reason.
  • Green onions: Fresh and sharp, they balance the richness.
  • Hot honey drizzle + fresh basil: Trust me on this it’s a game-changer.

You bake it again at 425°F for 10 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes. The cheese bubbles, the edges toast, and the aroma? Unreal. Want more fresh inspiration? These cottage cheese bagels pair beautifully with this pizza for a brunch twist.

Spreading chicken crust on parchment with silicone spatula
Spread the chicken mixture evenly to form the crust

Easy Swaps to Keep It Fresh (Or Make It Work With What You Have)

This chicken pizza crust recipe is endlessly customizable. Here’s how to riff on the original:

  • Protein swap: Ground turkey works just as well similar texture, slightly different flavor.
  • Dairy-free: Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast in the crust, and use your favorite dairy-free cheese for topping.
  • Veggie-loaded: Top with mushrooms, black olives, banana peppers, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
  • Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes to the chicken mix and top with jalapeños.

Feeling adventurous? Pair your pizza with something unexpected but totally delicious like this banana cottage cheese pancake yes, breakfast for dinner can still be high-protein and satisfying.

Meal Prep Tip: Bake the crust ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, add toppings and finish it in the oven. You can even freeze the crust post-bake. Just thaw, top, and reheat.

This pizza isn’t just flexible it’s clever. You can prep it on Sunday, freeze extras, and have pizza night ready in 10 minutes flat. All the joy, none of the chaos.

Conclusion: Why This Chicken Pizza Crust Deserves the Hype

Here’s the deal: this chicken crust pizza tastes so good, you’ll forget it’s healthy. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and checks every box protein-packed, crispy, customizable, and weeknight-friendly.

You don’t need to be a keto fanatic or gym bro to love this. It’s for busy moms, pizza-lovers with goals, and anyone who wants dinner to feel exciting again. I’ve made it dozens of times, and each version is better than the last.

So whether you’re meal prepping, impressing your family, or just feeding yourself with intention this is the one. You’ll crave it. And you’ll feel good about it.

And hey, if your partner still thinks “crust” only comes from bread? Make this. Slice it up. Don’t say a word. Watch the surprise on their face.

Because yes it really is that good.

Full chicken crust pizza ready for slicing and serving
Chicken crust pizza with 180g protein, sliced and ready

What You Need to Know About Chicken Crust Pizza?

Let’s clear up the most common questions about chicken crust pizza so you feel confident making it (and maybe brag a little when people ask how you got 180g of protein into a single dinner).

What is chicken crust pizza?

It’s a pizza where the crust is made from seasoned ground chicken instead of dough. No flour, no gluten, no carbs just protein. The mixture of chicken, egg, and parmesan bakes into a firm, golden-brown base that holds toppings like a regular crust. You can even slice it by hand like a traditional pizza, and it holds together beautifully.

Can you buy chicken pizza crust?

Yes, some brands sell pre-made chicken crusts in stores or online but they often come with added binders, preservatives, or lower protein counts. Making it at home means you control the ingredients and get the best flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s honestly quicker than you’d expect. (If you’re short on time, you might love something like this high-protein chocolate mousse for dessert prep too.)

Why is my chicken pizza crust soggy?

Soggy crust usually means one of three things:
1- You used extra lean chicken, which lacks enough fat to crisp.
2- It wasn’t baked long enough on the first round.
3- You skipped parchment paper, which helps draw moisture away and allows even cooking.
Be sure to rest the crust for five minutes after baking before adding toppings. That small step lets excess steam escape and firms up the texture.

Is thin crust chicken pizza healthy?

Absolutely. This version is low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free. If you’re watching blood sugar or balancing macros, chicken crust pizza is a smart option. You get all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional pizza without the carb crash afterward.
Want to go further with your healthy swaps? Try this pink salt drink for an easy hydration boost it’s a surprisingly effective way to start your day or recover from a salty dinner.

friendly 43 year old american woman chef warm smile casual home kitchen setting wearing an apron li jws5s9efy49a7wh5mykc 4

Hi, I’m Lina! I’m a 43-year-old home cook and mom of two, serving up easy, soul-hugging recipes for real-life families. Join me for delicious and reliable baking recipes. Everything from cakes, brownies, cheese cake and cookies to bars, quick breads, and more. Every recipe is tested, perfected, and made to inspire confidence in your kitchen. Happy baking!