Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful twist on classic pizza that bursts with festive flavor and creamy richness, look no further than this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. This recipe combines tender chicken, tangy cranberry sauce, and melt-in-your-mouth Brie cheese to create a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or someone looking to impress with something uniquely delicious, this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a personal favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing sweetness, creaminess, and savory notes while adding fantastic texture and vibrant color that make every bite exciting.

• Pre-made pizza crust: A convenient foundation offering crispiness and ease without sacrificing homemade charm.
• Cooked chicken, shredded: Provides protein and a tender, juicy base that pairs perfectly with sweet cranberry sauce.
• Cranberry sauce: Adds a burst of tart sweetness that complements the richness of the cheeses.
• Brie cheese, sliced: Brings a creamy, buttery texture with subtle earthiness that elevates the pizza’s flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to offer that classic cheesy stretch and mild taste.
• Red onion, thinly sliced: Introduces a sharp, slightly sweet bite and a lovely pop of color.
• Olive oil: Enhances crispiness in the crust and adds a silky finish.
• Fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme): Infuses herbal brightness that livens the entire dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enrich all the flavors.
• Arugula or fresh spinach (optional): Adds a fresh, peppery green touch for a beautiful finish.

How to Make Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), or follow the instructions on your pizza crust package. This ensures a hot environment to create a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Crust

Roll out your pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Lightly brush the crust with olive oil to promote extra crispiness and golden edges as it bakes. This simple step elevates the texture and flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Mix Cranberry & Chicken

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cranberry sauce, stirring until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This mixture will bring a luscious balance of savory and sweet to every slice.

Step 4: Assemble Your Toppings

Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Then, artfully arrange the slices of Brie cheese across the pizza. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over top, followed by the thinly sliced red onion for a burst of sharpness and color.

Step 5: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle the pizza lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper evenly. These seasonings weave an aromatic layer that complements the fruitiness and creaminess beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your pizza for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. Watching the Brie soften and meld into the other toppings is truly a treat!

Step 7: Add Fresh Greens

Once out of the oven, allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before topping it with fresh arugula or spinach. This adds a fresh, peppery contrast and a vibrant pop that brightens the whole dish.

Step 8: Slice and Serve Your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza

Finally, slice into generous portions and serve immediately. The combination of creamy Brie, tart cranberry, tender chicken, and fresh greens makes for an unforgettable bite every time.

How to Serve Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza

Garnishes

Sprinkling a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or even some finely chopped rosemary can enhance the herbal notes already in the pizza. For a final zing, a drizzle of balsamic glaze pairs wonderfully with the sweet tartness of the cranberry, adding a glossy, gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

This Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza pairs delightfully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and feta salad. Roasted root vegetables with rosemary or a warm butternut squash soup are also excellent companions that keep the meal seasonal and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the pizza on a wooden board with small bowls of extra cranberry sauce and fresh herbs. You could also transform this dish into elegant appetizers by cutting the pizza into bite-sized squares and topping each with a tiny dollop of arugula and a fresh thyme leaf for a party-ready treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so leftovers can be just as enjoyable as the first serving.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Freezing helps preserve the delicious combination of cranberry and cheese without sacrificing texture.

Reheating

Reheat your slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness and melt the cheese anew. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and diminish the creamy texture of Brie.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully with this recipe, especially if you’re using it around the holidays. The flavors blend seamlessly and bring a festive feel to the pizza.

Is Brie cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?

While Brie adds a distinctive creamy richness, you can substitute it with Camembert or a mild goat cheese for a slightly different flavor profile, though Brie remains a top pick for its meltability and subtle earthiness.

Can I make the pizza gluten-free?

Yes, simply opt for a gluten-free pizza crust that fits your dietary needs. The toppings and overall flavor will remain just as delicious and festive.

What kind of cranberry sauce should I use?

Homemade cranberry sauce brings the freshest flavor, but store-bought works perfectly for convenience. Look for whole berry versions to get lovely texture contrasts within the chicken mixture.

How can I make this pizza vegetarian?

To keep it vegetarian, skip the chicken and add more cranberry sauce or substitute with roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for an earthy, hearty bite alongside the Brie and mozzarella.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is like inviting a festive celebration to your dinner table anytime you want. The balance of rich, creamy cheese, vibrant cranberry, and tender chicken makes for a memorable meal you’ll want to make again and again. I promise once you take that first bite, this pizza will quickly earn a special place in your recipe rotation!

Print