Chicken Crust Pizza: The Ultimate Low-Carb, High-Protein Pizza Guide

If you love pizza but want to cut carbs without losing that cheesy, satisfying bite, chicken crust pizza is your next kitchen hero. This protein-packed, gluten-free twist on your favorite comfort food uses seasoned ground chicken as the base, turning your slice into a low-carb powerhouse without sacrificing flavor. In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn what chicken crust pizza is, its health benefits, how to make it, where to buy it, and the best toppings to try. Whether you’re on a keto diet, gluten-free journey, or just looking to add more protein to your meals, chicken crust pizza delivers a flexible, satisfying solution.

Looking for more healthy chicken inspiration? Check out Crockpot Chicken and Noodles to pair with your pizza nights for easy weeknight meals.

Print

What Is Chicken Crust Pizza?

What Exactly Is Chicken Crust Pizza?

Chicken crust pizza is exactly what it sounds like: instead of a traditional dough base, the crust is made from ground chicken mixed with egg, cheese, and seasonings, then flattened and baked until crisp. Once it’s ready, you top it with sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings before baking it again until bubbling and golden.

This style of pizza is perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste and structure of pizza while maintaining a low-carb, high-protein lifestyle. Unlike cauliflower crust or almond flour crust, chicken crust pizza has a higher protein content, keeps you full longer, and holds up well to toppings without falling apart.

The Rise of Chicken-Based Crusts in Low-Carb Diets

Chicken crust pizza became popular within keto and paleo communities due to its ability to keep net carbs extremely low while boosting protein intake. For example, a traditional pizza crust may contain 25-30g of carbs per slice, while a chicken crust can have fewer than 2g of net carbs per serving depending on your toppings and sauce choices.

Its popularity is also tied to the versatility of chicken as a base. You can season your crust with Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even Buffalo seasoning to match the pizza’s flavor profile, making it adaptable for everything from classic pepperoni to BBQ chicken and even Mediterranean-style pizzas.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity while providing a delicious, guilt-free way to enjoy pizza night without the bloat or blood sugar spikes that can come with traditional crust.

Health Benefits of Chicken Crust Pizza

High-Protein, Low-Carb Benefits

One of the biggest reasons chicken crust pizza is gaining traction is its perfect balance of high protein and low carbohydrates. A single serving can deliver around 25-30 grams of protein while keeping net carbs as low as 1-3 grams, depending on your toppings and sauces. This is a must-try if you’re sticking to a keto, low-carb, or high-protein lifestyle.

Higher protein intake helps you feel full longer, reduces cravings, and supports muscle maintenance during weight loss. Unlike regular pizza, which can spike blood sugar and leave you hungry within hours, chicken crust pizza offers slow, stable energy, making it a smart option for those managing insulin levels or seeking steady energy throughout the day.

Gluten-Free and Grain-Free Pizza Option

Traditional pizza crust often uses refined flour, which can cause bloating and inflammation, especially for those with gluten sensitivities. Chicken crust pizza naturally eliminates grains and gluten while still providing a satisfying, chewy texture under your toppings.

Chicken crust pizza is a great option for anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, letting you indulge in pizza without the risk of gluten exposure. Plus, being grain-free means you avoid the high glycemic impact of traditional flour-based crusts, keeping your meals aligned with anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-friendly eating.

---

Quick Nutritional Comparison Table:

Feature	Traditional Pizza Slice	Chicken Crust Pizza Slice
Carbs	25-30g	1-3g
Protein	8-12g	25-30g
Gluten	Yes	No
Satiety	Low	High
Keto-Friendly	No	Yes

---

Don’t miss our Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for another high-protein, low-carb meal idea you can add to your weekly rotation alongside your chicken crust pizza nights.

Why Make Chicken Crust Pizza at Home?

Control Ingredients for Healthier Pizza

Making chicken crust pizza at home allows you to fully control what goes into your meal. Unlike many pre-made or restaurant pizzas that can contain hidden starches, fillers, or excess sodium, your homemade version can be clean, using simple ingredients like ground chicken, egg, cheese, and your choice of spices.

You can season your crust to match your taste preferences—garlic powder, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or even a touch of chili for heat. This keeps your meal aligned with keto, low-carb, gluten-free, or clean-eating goals while ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Budget-Friendly and Customizable

Homemade chicken crust pizza is surprisingly budget-friendly. By using ground chicken or finely chopping leftover cooked chicken, you can create a high-protein, low-carb pizza for less than most takeout options. You also control portion size, thickness, and toppings to suit your family’s preferences, making it a flexible recipe for lunch meal prep or family pizza nights.

For added variety, try different seasoning profiles for the crust—like Buffalo seasoning for a spicy base or Italian seasoning for a classic pizza feel. You can even adjust cheese types in the crust (like using parmesan for crispiness) to match your preferred texture.

Don’t miss our Chicken Piccata Meatballs for another versatile chicken recipe to pair with your weekly healthy meal planning.

How to Make Chicken Crust Pizza at Home

---

Ingredients and Tools Needed

You can easily prepare chicken crust pizza at home using minimal ingredients and everyday kitchen equipment. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground chicken (cooked chicken, finely chopped, also works)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan (for binding)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional flavor boosters:

• A pinch of chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon almond flour (for added texture)

Toppings:

• Sugar-free pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Favorite toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, peppers, spinach, etc.

Tools:

• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or your hands for shaping

---

Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Chicken Pizza Crust

1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.

3. Shape the Crust:
Place the chicken mixture onto the prepared parchment paper. Using your hands or a spatula, flatten it into a round pizza shape about ¼ inch thick. Press firmly to ensure an even layer without gaps.

4. Pre-Bake for Crispiness:
Bake the crust for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden around the edges and is firm to the touch. This step helps reduce moisture and ensures a sturdy, crisp base.

5. Add Toppings:
Take the crust out of the oven and gently pour off any extra liquid if necessary.

6. Final Bake:
Put the pizza back in the oven and let it bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

7. Cool and Slice:
Allow the pizza to cool for 5 minutes to let the crust set before slicing. This helps maintain its structure when you pick up a slice.

---

Pro Tips for Crispier Chicken Crust:

• Pat ground chicken with paper towels before mixing to remove excess moisture.
• Add 1 tablespoon almond flour or coconut flour if you prefer an extra firm base.
• For even more crisp, after the second bake, broil for 1-2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.

---

Discover great ideas like our Caesar Pasta Salad as a fresh, light side to serve alongside your homemade chicken crust pizza for a complete, balanced lunch or dinner.

Is Thin Crust Chicken Pizza Healthy?

Nutritional Comparison with Traditional Thin Crust

Wondering if chicken crust pizza truly stacks up as a healthier alternative? Let’s break down the numbers.

Traditional thin-crust pizzas typically contain 25-30 grams of carbs per slice and 8-12 grams of protein, depending on toppings and sauces used. In contrast, chicken crust pizza can deliver 25-30 grams of protein with only 1-3 grams of net carbs per serving.

Here’s a clear comparison:

Feature	Traditional Thin Crust (per slice)	Chicken Crust Pizza (per slice)
Carbs	25-30g	1-3g
Protein	8-12g	25-30g
Gluten	Yes	No
Keto-Friendly	No	Yes
Satiety	Lower	Higher

With fewer carbs and higher protein, chicken crust pizza can help:

• Reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes
• Increase satiety, reducing snacking
• Support muscle maintenance while dieting

This makes chicken crust pizza ideal for keto, low-carb, and high-protein diets, and beneficial for those managing blood sugar or seeking weight loss without sacrificing satisfying meals.

---

Considerations for Sodium and Fat Content

While chicken crust pizza is low in carbs and high in protein, it’s important to manage sodium and fat intake for overall health.

Sodium: Ground chicken and cheese can add up in salt content, especially if using pre-seasoned meat or salty cheeses. To lower sodium:

• Use unseasoned ground chicken and season yourself.
• Choose lower-sodium cheeses or use cheese moderately.
• Be cautious with sauces—opt for no-sugar-added crushed tomatoes or low-sodium pizza sauce.

Fat Content: The fat in chicken crust pizza often comes from cheese used in the crust and toppings. While healthy fats are important, excessive cheese or fatty toppings can increase calorie density. You can lighten it up by:

• Using part-skim mozzarella or reducing cheese amounts.
• Adding more vegetable toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or peppers.
• Using lean ground chicken breast for the crust.

Overall, thin crust chicken pizza can be a healthy, nutrient-dense alternative when you control ingredients, making it ideal for lunch, meal prep, and family-friendly dinners that support your health goals.

Don’t miss our Sockeye Salmon Recipe for another low-carb, high-protein meal idea that pairs well with your healthy lifestyle.

Best Toppings for Chicken Crust Pizza

Toppings That Pair Perfectly with Chicken Crust

Choosing the right toppings can transform your chicken crust pizza from a simple low-carb meal into a restaurant-quality experience at home. Since the chicken crust is rich and savory, toppings that add freshness, moisture balance, and flavor depth work best.

Best vegetable toppings:

• Spinach and arugula: Add a fresh, peppery bite.
• Mushrooms: Bring earthiness and umami without added carbs.
• Bell peppers: Add crunch and color.
• Red onions: Provide a mild sweetness.
• Cherry tomatoes: Offer juiciness without excess moisture.
• Olives: For a salty, Mediterranean touch.

Best cheese options:

• Mozzarella: Classic melt and stretch.
• Parmesan: Adds sharpness and crispiness when sprinkled on top.
• Goat cheese: Brings creaminess with a tang.
• Feta: Adds a salty, crumbly element for Greek-style variations.

Best sauce options:

• Sugar-free marinara
• Crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning
• Pesto for a nutty, herby flavor
• Buffalo sauce for heat
• BBQ sauce (low-sugar) for smoky-sweet profiles

Low-Carb, High-Flavor Topping Combinations

Here are delicious chicken crust pizza combinations to try:

🔥 BBQ Chicken Delight:
Low-sugar BBQ sauce, red onion, mozzarella, fresh cilantro.

🔥 Mediterranean:
Pesto base, feta, olives, spinach, cherry tomatoes.

🔥 Veggie Supreme:
Sugar-free marinara, mozzarella, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, onions.

Tips:

• Avoid overloading with sauce to prevent sogginess.
• Pre-cook moisture-heavy toppings like mushrooms to avoid excess water.
• Add fresh greens (like arugula) after baking for a crisp finish.

Your chicken crust pizza becomes a customizable canvas for your cravings while staying aligned with your low-carb lifestyle.

---

Discover great ideas like our Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for another quick, high-protein, low-carb meal to rotate with your pizza nights.

Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Crust Pizza

How to Get a Crispy Chicken Crust

One of the biggest challenges when making chicken crust pizza is achieving a crisp, sturdy base that holds up to your toppings. Here’s how to get it right:

🔥 Pre-Bake the Crust Thoroughly:
Bake the chicken crust alone before adding toppings. A 20-25 minute bake at 400°F (200°C) allows the moisture to evaporate, firming the crust.

🔥 Use Parchment Paper and Drain Excess Liquid:
Line your baking sheet with parchment to prevent sticking. After pre-baking, tilt the sheet carefully and drain off any moisture that has released.

🔥 Flatten Evenly:
Spread your chicken mixture into a thin, even layer, about ¼ inch thick. A thicker crust retains more moisture, while a thinner crust crisps better.

🔥 Add Parmesan for Crunch:
Mixing a bit of parmesan into the crust or sprinkling on top before pre-baking can help create a golden, crispy edge.

🔥 Optional Broil Finish:
After adding toppings and completing the final bake, broil the pizza for 1-2 minutes to crisp the cheese and edges. Watch closely to avoid burning.

---

Preventing Soggy Pizza with Chicken Crust

Moisture control is key to avoiding soggy chicken crust pizza. Here’s what you should do:

🔥 Pat the Chicken Dry:
Use paper towels to blot any excess moisture from the ground chicken before combining with other ingredients.

🔥 Avoid Excess Sauce:
Use a thin layer of sauce to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. You can also opt for thicker sauces like pesto or low-sugar BBQ for better moisture control.

🔥 Pre-Cook Moisture-Heavy Toppings:
During baking, ingredients like mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach can let out water. Sauté or roast them beforehand to reduce moisture content.

🔥 Rest Before Slicing:
Let the pizza rest for five minutes to allow the cheese to set.This allows the crust to firm up completely, making it easier to cut and hold without crumbling.

🔥 Use the Right Cheese:
Cheeses like mozzarella can release moisture when baked. Pair it with drier cheeses like parmesan or reduce the amount slightly if you notice excessive moisture.

---

These techniques guarantee your chicken crust pizza has a satisfying crunch while retaining a juicy, savory interior.

Don’t miss our Crockpot Chicken and Noodles for another cozy, protein-rich meal idea that pairs well with your healthy pizza nights.

Chicken Crust Pizza Variations to Try

If you’ve mastered the classic chicken crust pizza, it’s time to explore fun, flavorful variations that keep your meals exciting while staying low-carb, high-protein, and satisfying.

---

Buffalo Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe

For those who love a spicy kick, this Buffalo variation transforms your chicken crust pizza into a crave-worthy meal without the guilt.

Ingredients:

• Pre-baked chicken crust (see Part 4)
• 2-3 tbsp Buffalo sauce (low-sugar)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh chopped celery and green onion for garnish
• Drizzle of ranch or additional Buffalo sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Spread Buffalo sauce evenly over your pre-baked chicken crust.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella, blue cheese, and red onion on top.
3. Place in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and sizzling.
4. Let rest for 5 minutes, then top with celery, green onion, and a drizzle of ranch or extra Buffalo sauce before slicing.

---

BBQ Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe

This BBQ chicken crust pizza offers a smoky, sweet flavor with a satisfying crunch, ideal for lunch or a fun family pizza night.

Ingredients:

• Pre-baked chicken crust
• 3 tbsp low-sugar BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup cooked, shredded chicken breast (optional for extra protein)
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Fresh chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Spread BBQ sauce over the pre-baked chicken crust.
2. Top with mozzarella, shredded chicken, and red onion.
3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and edges are crisp.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

---

Additional Flavor Variations:

🔥 Pesto Veggie: Pesto sauce, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and spinach.
🔥 Mediterranean: Feta, olives, spinach, tomatoes, and red onion.
🔥 Classic Pepperoni: Sugar-free marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni slices.

These variations ensure your chicken crust pizza never feels repetitive while keeping your meals aligned with your health goals.

---

Looking for inspiration? Try our Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe as a topping idea for your next chicken crust pizza variation.

Don’t miss our Chicken Piccata Meatballs for another high-protein, low-carb meal idea to pair with your healthy eating routine.

Conclusion: Try Chicken Crust Pizza Today

Chicken crust pizza is a delicious, high-protein, low-carb alternative that lets you enjoy pizza without guilt. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite toppings, and fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Try it this week and transform your lunch or dinner into a satisfying, clean meal you’ll love.

For more recipes follow me in Facebook and Pinterest