Discover the Ultimate Keto Comfort Food: Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Craving pizza on a keto diet? You’re not alone! The quest for a delicious, low-carb pizza that satisfies those comfort food cravings without breaking your carb bank is a common one. That’s where our Keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza comes in – a mouthwatering creation that’s as indulgent as it is keto-friendly.
Featuring a crispy cauliflower crust and topped with spicy buffalo chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of blue cheese, this pizza is a game-changer. It’s the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of their favorite pizza while sticking to a ketogenic lifestyle. Let’s dive into why this pizza is a must-try for keto dieters and spice lovers alike!
The Story Behind This Spicy, Cheesy Delight
As a keto dieter, I often found myself missing the comfort of a good pizza. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands and craft a pizza that could be enjoyed without guilt. The result is this Keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza, a dish that has quickly become a staple in my kitchen and among my fellow keto friends.
The star of this pizza is the cauliflower crust, a genius alternative to traditional dough that keeps carbs in check while providing a satisfying crunch. Cauliflower is a keto superfood, packed with nutrients and versatile enough to mimic the texture we all love in a pizza base. Combined with protein-rich chicken and healthy fats from cheese, this pizza is not just delicious but also perfectly aligned with the macronutrient ratios required for a ketogenic diet.
Buffalo sauce, the fiery component that gives this pizza its name, is another keto-friendly ingredient. It’s low in carbs and can be adjusted for heat, making it ideal for customizing your pizza to your personal spice tolerance. The combination of buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken creates a topping that’s bursting with flavor and keeps you coming back for more.
Mastering the Keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Creating the perfect Keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza is all about technique and attention to detail. Let’s break down the method and share some chef’s tips to elevate your pizza game.
Firstly, the cauliflower crust is the foundation of this dish. The key to a crispy crust that holds together is removing as much moisture as possible from the cauliflower. After steaming, wrap the cauliflower in a kitchen towel and squeeze firmly. This step is crucial – the drier the cauliflower, the better the crust will hold up to the toppings.
When it comes to the buffalo chicken, ensure that the chicken is well-coated in sauce for maximum flavor. However, be mindful not to make the chicken too wet, as this can cause the crust to become soggy. A good balance of sauce will give you that spicy kick without compromising the texture of your pizza.
Finally, when assembling the pizza, distribute the toppings evenly for a consistent taste in every bite. The cheese should be spread out to the edges to achieve that delightful, cheesy pull we all love. And don’t forget to preheat your oven – a hot oven ensures a crisp crust and beautifully melted cheese.
Variations to Spice Up Your Keto Pizza Game
BBQ Chicken Keto Pizza
For a sweeter twist, swap out the buffalo sauce for a low-carb BBQ sauce. The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the chicken and cheese, offering a different but equally delicious keto pizza experience.
Vegetarian Keto Pizza
Replace the chicken with an assortment of keto-friendly vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy flavor that complements the veggies.
Taco Keto Pizza
Channel the flavors of a taco night by topping your cauliflower crust with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of sour cream post-baking.
Substitutions for Every Keto Dieter’s Needs
Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to mix things up, there are plenty of substitutions that keep this pizza keto-friendly.
For those avoiding dairy, replace the mozzarella and blue cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. Egg allergies can be accommodated by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a binder for the crust.
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, goat cheese is a fantastic substitute that still provides a tangy kick. And if cauliflower isn’t your thing, try using almond flour and cheese to create a “fathead” dough that’s low in carbs and keto-approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the crust ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before adding toppings and baking.
How do I store leftovers? Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Is buffalo sauce keto-friendly? Most buffalo sauces are low in carbs, making them suitable for a keto diet. Always check the label for added sugars.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
What can I use instead of cilantro for garnish? If cilantro isn’t to your taste, try using chopped green onions or a sprinkle of dried herbs for garnish.
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Keto Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Equipment
- Microwave
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Kitchen towel
Ingredients
Cauliflower Crust
- 2 cups riced cauliflower (about 200g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100g)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (approximately 140g)
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (120ml)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100g)
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (about 30g)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, steam the riced cauliflower for 4-5 minutes until soft. Allow it to cool and then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained cauliflower, egg, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the cauliflower mixture onto the lined baking sheet, shaping it into a pizza crust about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it's golden and firm.
- While the crust is baking, toss the shredded chicken in buffalo sauce until it's fully coated.
- Once the crust is done, spread the buffalo chicken evenly over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and blue cheese.
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish the pizza with chopped cilantro before slicing and serving.
