Chicken crust pizza is taking over the healthy food world and for good reason. This brilliant swap ditches flour-heavy dough for a crust made from juicy, protein-packed chicken, making it a favorite among keto eaters, low-carb lovers, and anyone looking to lighten up pizza night without sacrificing flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken pizza crust using ground, shredded, or canned chicken, or if it’s actually tasty (spoiler alert: it is), you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make chicken crust pizza at home, explore variations like buffalo chicken crust and caesar salad pizza, break down its nutritional benefits, and answer every possible FAQ from “Is it healthy?” to “Where can I buy it?”
Discover great ideas like Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust if you’re craving more low-carb crust inspiration.
Table of Contents
What Is Chicken Crust Pizza and Why It’s a Game-Changer?
Understanding Chicken Crust Pizza
Instead of flour, this crust relies on a protein-packed blend of ground or canned chicken, eggs, and cheese. After baking, it firms up into a golden, sliceable base that mimics the feel of classic crust—minus the carb load.
This crust isn’t just about cutting carbs. It’s a total win for those seeking higher protein, gluten-free options, or following specific diets like keto, carnivore, or low glycemic.
Benefits of Swapping Traditional Dough for Chicken
The switch from regular crust to a chicken pizza crust isn’t just trendy—it’s smart. Here’s why:
| Traditional Dough Crust | Chicken Crust Pizza |
|---|---|
| High in carbs (~30-40g per slice) | Low-carb (as low as 1-2g net carbs per slice) |
| Minimal protein | High in protein (15g+ per slice) |
| May include gluten | Naturally gluten-free |
| Causes blood sugar spikes | Keeps insulin levels stable |
| Heavier, bready | Light, meaty, crispy |
A single slice of keto chicken crust pizza offers everything you need to stay full longer without the crash that comes with white flour or processed crusts.
A Look Into the Rise of Chicken-Based Pizza Crusts
The popularity of chicken pizza crust recipes has exploded across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The viral 3-ingredient canned chicken pizza crust made headlines for its simplicity, while brands began rolling out frozen chicken crust pizzas in grocery stores.
Influencers and nutritionists alike praise it for its customizability and health appeal. Whether you’re making chicken parmesan crust pizza or trying a bold buffalo chicken thin crust pizza, the base adapts perfectly to almost any flavor profile.
And thanks to quick prep times and simple ingredients, even beginners can master this pizza style in under 30 minutes.
PrintChicken Crust Pizza – The Ultimate Low-Carb, High-Protein Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
Description
Learn how to make the best chicken crust pizza at home. This low-carb, keto-friendly crust is packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Crust Base:
1½ cups canned or shredded chicken breast (well-drained)
1 large egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or mozzarella)
¼ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Pinch of salt and pepper
For the Toppings (example options):
⅓ cup sugar-free marinara sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Sliced red onions
Bell peppers or spinach
Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Drain the chicken thoroughly and pat dry using paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy crust.
Mix the crust ingredients (chicken, egg, cheese, garlic powder, seasoning, salt, pepper) in a bowl until fully combined.
On the baking sheet, press the mixture into a round, thin pizza crust about ¼ inch thick.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and firm.
Remove from the oven. Spread marinara sauce, then layer with cheese and toppings of your choice.
Bake again for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool for 3–5 minutes. Slice and serve hot!
Notes
Use shredded chicken, ground chicken, or canned chicken—just be sure it’s dry!
You can make this dairy-free by substituting cheese with vegan options.
For crispier results, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Add herbs and spices to the crust mix for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course, Keto Recipes
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: <1g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Ingredients and Variations of Chicken Pizza Crust
Creating a crispy, flavorful chicken crust starts with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you prefer ground, shredded, or canned chicken, there’s a version that fits your pantry and your meal prep routine.
Basic Ingredients for Chicken Crust Pizza
Let’s start with the core of any good chicken crust: protein, binder, and flavor. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- 1½ cups cooked chicken – ground, shredded, or canned
- 1 large egg – acts as a binder
- ½ cup Parmesan or mozzarella cheese – adds flavor and helps hold it together
- Seasonings – garlic powder, Italian herbs, sea salt, and black pepper
Want extra crispiness? Add a tablespoon of almond flour or a touch of psyllium husk.
This combo results in a crust that’s sturdy enough to hold toppings and crisp around the edges when baked properly.
Using Ground, Shredded, or Canned Chicken
Each type of chicken has its pros and cons:
| Type of Chicken | Texture | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Chicken | Smooth and uniform | Easy mixing, clean crust edges | Slightly moister texture |
| Shredded Chicken Breast | Chunkier | Adds rustic bite | Best if finely shredded |
| Canned Chicken | Convenient | 3-ingredient crust | Drain and dry well to prevent soggy crust |
Canned chicken pizza crust is especially popular thanks to TikTok’s viral 3-ingredient recipe. Just mix canned chicken, egg, and cheese—press it thin, and bake.
Don’t miss our Marry Me Chicken Pasta for another delicious chicken-based dinner idea.
Cheese, Eggs, and Binders That Make the Crust Hold
Cheese isn’t just for flavor—it’s the glue that binds your crust. You can mix:
- Parmesan – sharper, drier, helps crisp
- Mozzarella – meltier, softer
- Cheddar – adds a unique flavor twist
- Cream cheese – used in some creamy keto recipes
For binders beyond eggs, try:
- Almond flour – adds bulk and a nutty note
- Flaxseed meal – works for keto and adds fiber
- Psyllium husk – absorbs moisture, giving structure
Flavor Add-ins: Garlic Powder, Herbs, and More
Don’t settle for bland. Season the crust well:
- Garlic powder or minced garlic
- Italian seasoning blend
- Dried oregano and basil
- Paprika or red pepper flakes (if you want heat)
A flavorful crust makes the entire pizza feel gourmet—even when you’re working with just a few ingredients.
Check out Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta for another creative low-carb dish with big flavor.
Step-by-Step Chicken Crust Pizza Recipe
Making chicken crust pizza at home is simpler than you think. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a crispy, golden, low-carb base ready to be topped with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re using canned chicken, shredded breast, or ground meat, this process works every time.
Prepping the Chicken Crust Base
Start by gathering your ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned chicken (drained and shredded) | 1½ cups |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Garlic powder | ¼ tsp |
| Italian seasoning | ½ tsp |
| Salt & pepper | to taste |
Instructions:
- Drain your canned chicken very well. Use paper towels to squeeze out extra moisture if needed.
- Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined.
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan, press the mixture into a thin circle (about ¼ inch thick).
- Optional: Use your hands or a spatula to smooth the edges for an even, round shape.
Looking for inspiration? Try Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels for a high-protein snack while the pizza bakes.
Baking Tips for a Crispy and Firm Crust
To make the crust golden and sturdy enough to hold toppings:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes until firm and lightly browned. If edges start to crisp up, you’re on the right track.
- Remove from oven, and let cool slightly before adding sauce and cheese—this keeps it from going soggy.
Adding Low-Carb Toppings: Veggies, Cheese, and Sauces
This is where your creativity shines. Some topping combos we love:
| Topping Combo | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Classic Keto | Sugar-free marinara, mozzarella, pepperoni, olives |
| BBQ Chicken | Sugar-free BBQ sauce, chicken chunks, red onion |
| Caesar Salad Pizza | Caesar-dressed romaine, shaved Parmesan, crispy bacon |
| Buffalo Style | Hot sauce, blue cheese crumbles, grilled chicken |
Always stick to low-moisture cheese to prevent a soggy pizza. Mozzarella, Parmesan, or sharp cheddar are top picks.
For more recipes follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
Final Bake: Melting Cheese to Golden Perfection
After adding your toppings:
- Place the pizza back in the oven.
- Bake another 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Broil for the last 2 minutes for that irresistible melted-top finish.
Let the pizza rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing. This step helps the crust firm up more and keeps the toppings from sliding off.
Don’t miss our Protein Coffee Recipe, the perfect energizing drink to pair with your high-protein pizza meal.
Chicken Crust Pizza Variations You’ll Love
Once you’ve mastered the basic chicken crust pizza, it’s time to level up with irresistible variations. From spicy Buffalo style to Caesar salad fusion, these flavor twists will make you forget regular pizza crust ever existed.
Buffalo Chicken Crust Pizza
This version turns up the heat with zesty buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese. It’s a hit with keto fans and flavor seekers alike.
Ingredients:
- Chicken pizza crust (pre-baked)
- Shredded rotisserie chicken
- Buffalo hot sauce (sugar-free)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Chopped celery (optional)
Instructions:
- Spread buffalo sauce over your baked crust
- Layer on chicken, cheese, and blue cheese
- Bake until bubbly, about 10 minutes
- Top with chopped celery and a drizzle of ranch (optional)
Chicken Parmesan Pizza Crust
This chicken crusted pizza is inspired by the classic Italian dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and totally keto.
Toppings:
- Sugar-free marinara
- Fresh mozzarella slices
- Grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil
Pro Tip: Before adding toppings, sprinkle extra Parmesan on the crust edges for a crunchy parmesan chicken crust pizza effect.
BBQ Chicken Crust Pizza
If smoky and sweet is your thing, this low carb chicken crust pizza with BBQ vibes delivers.
What You Need:
- Chicken pizza crust with canned chicken
- Sugar-free BBQ sauce
- Red onions
- Sharp cheddar
- Cooked bacon or grilled chicken strips
It’s best enjoyed hot and pairs perfectly with a side of roasted broccoli or a cold keto slaw.
Caesar Salad Chicken Crust Pizza
This viral TikTok hit layers crisp romaine and caesar dressing on a baked chicken crust pizza for a crunchy-meets-creamy bite.
Build It:
- Base: ground chicken pizza crust or shredded chicken
- Toppings: shaved parmesan, crisp lettuce, keto-friendly caesar dressing, grilled chicken
Top it post-bake to keep the salad fresh.
Looking for inspiration? Try Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels if you want more high-protein breadless options.
From a fiery buffalo style to the cool crunch of Caesar salad chicken crust pizza, the options are endless. And each version keeps your meal low in carbs and packed with protein.
Nutritional Benefits and Keto-Friendly Features
If you’re looking for a meal that fits into your health-conscious lifestyle, chicken crust pizza delivers on all fronts. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, naturally gluten-free, and completely customizable. Whether you’re eating clean, counting macros, or sticking to keto, it’s got your back.
Why It’s Perfect for Keto and Low-Carb Diets
Unlike traditional pizza crusts made with refined flour, chicken pizza crust is naturally low in carbohydrates. That makes it a staple in keto and low-carb kitchens. Most versions have 1 to 3 grams of net carbs per slice, depending on toppings and sauce.
Let’s compare:
| Nutrition Per Slice | Traditional Crust | Chicken Crust |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 28g–36g | 1g–3g |
| Protein | 6g–8g | 15g–20g |
| Fat | 8g–10g | 10g–15g |
| Gluten | Yes | No |
Because of its balance of fat and protein, keto chicken crust pizza helps with satiety and stabilizes blood sugar—important benefits for both weight loss and managing insulin sensitivity.
Macros Breakdown: Calories, Protein, Fat, and Carbs
Here’s a typical nutrition profile for one slice of a basic canned chicken crust pizza with cheese and marinara:
- Calories: 220–250 kcal
- Protein: 18–22 grams
- Fat: 12–16 grams
- Net Carbs: 1–2 grams
When you add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, the calories stay low but you gain more fiber and micronutrients.
Check out Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta for another clean, veggie-packed dinner idea.
Chicken Crust Pizza vs Traditional Pizza: Health Comparison
Let’s put them side by side for a reality check:
| Feature | Traditional Pizza | Chicken Crust Pizza |
|---|---|---|
| Refined Flour | ✅ | ❌ |
| High Protein | ❌ | ✅ |
| Low Carb | ❌ | ✅ |
| Gluten-Free | ❌ | ✅ |
| Keto-Friendly | ❌ | ✅ |
| Blood Sugar Spike | ✅ | ❌ |
Not only does chicken crust pizza skip the dough bloat, but it also increases your protein intake making it a great post-workout meal or weeknight dinner that actually keeps you full.
If you’re trying to lower inflammation, avoid refined carbs, or follow a carnivore-inspired meal plan, a chicken breast pizza crust or shredded chicken pizza crust fits the bill perfectly.
Don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust if you want another gluten-free, low-carb crust alternative with a creamy twist.
Chicken Crust Pizza for Different Diet Lifestyles
One of the best parts about chicken crust pizza is how effortlessly it fits into nearly every diet plan. Whether you’re eating keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, or even full carnivore, this crust adapts without compromise.
Keto Chicken Crust Pizza Variations
If you’re following a strict ketogenic plan, keto chicken crust pizza is practically made for you. With high fat, moderate protein, and extremely low carbs, it keeps you in ketosis while satisfying pizza cravings.
Try these keto-friendly twists:
- Buffalo Kick Chicken Pizza – A fiery twist with hot sauce, melty mozzarella, and juicy grilled chicken on a keto-friendly chicken crust.
- Creamy Spinach Alfredo Chicken Crust Pizza – Features a rich white sauce layered with sautéed spinach over a protein-packed base.
- Avocado-Bacon Power Pizza – Loaded with healthy fats and smoky crunch, this version balances creaminess and bold flavor without the carbs.
To keep it fully keto, skip sugary sauces and opt for:
- Sugar-free marinara
- Fresh herbs
- Olive oil drizzles
Don’t miss our Protein Coffee Recipe for a fat-burning drink to pair with your keto pizza.
Carnivore Pizza Crust Chicken Style
Looking for a meal that’s all meat and zero plants? Carnivore-style chicken crust pizza delivers a pure protein punch—no carbs, no fillers, just meat on meat.
Here’s how to make it carnivore:
- Use ground chicken, an egg, and parmesan cheese for the crust
- Top with bacon, sausage, ground beef, and shredded cheddar
- Skip the sauce entirely or use a little bone broth reduction
You’ll get a savory, rich pizza loaded with amino acids and healthy fats—no carbs in sight.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options
Naturally, a chicken pizza crust contains no wheat, making it safe for gluten-sensitive and celiac diets. To go dairy-free:
- Replace cheese in the crust with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan mozzarella
- Use egg as your sole binder
- Avoid cheese-based toppings and try roasted veggies with avocado or tomato paste
Looking for inspiration? Try Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels and swap dairy if needed—they’re adaptable like your pizza.
Chicken Crust for Meal Prep and Freezing
Busy lifestyle? No problem. Chicken crust pizza can be:
- Pre-baked and frozen (just reheat and top)
- Cooked, cooled, and sliced for weekly lunches
- Made as mini crusts for portion control
Here’s how to freeze:
- Bake crusts until fully cooked.
- Let cool completely.
- Layer between parchment sheets and freeze in a zip-top bag.
- Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for 8–10 minutes—no thawing needed.
It’s a practical prep strategy that fits keto, carnivore, and gluten-free diets without compromising on taste.
Common Mistakes and Expert Tips
Even the most devoted fans of chicken crust pizza hit a few bumps when learning to make the perfect pie. Whether it’s a soggy base or uneven texture, small tweaks can take your recipe from just okay to seriously amazing.
Why Chicken Crust Gets Mushy and How to Fix It
The most common complaint? A soft or watery crust. Here’s why that happens—and how to fix it:
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Excess moisture from canned chicken | Drain and press dry using paper towels |
| Undercooked crust | Bake the crust fully before adding toppings |
| Too thick | Flatten the crust to ¼-inch or thinner for even baking |
| Not cooling before topping | Let it rest for 3–5 minutes before layering on sauce and cheese |
Even when using canned chicken crust pizza, proper prep ensures a firm, crispy result.
Avoiding Watery Crusts from Canned Chicken
Canned chicken is ultra convenient, but comes with extra moisture. To make it crust-ready:
- Empty the can and use a fork to break apart chunks.
- Lay the chicken on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Press or squeeze to release as much water as possible.
- Mix with egg and cheese only after it’s dry.
This method helps your chicken pizza crust with canned chicken bake crisp, not soggy.
Spices That Elevate Your Pizza Crust Flavor
While the base is simple, seasoning takes it next level. Try adding any of the following directly into the crust mix:
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Smoked paprika
- Italian herb blend
- Grated onion or onion powder
These small additions can transform a basic low carb chicken crust pizza into a gourmet-style meal.
Check out Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust to see how flavor upgrades make all the difference in low-carb cooking.
Tools You Need for Perfect Chicken Pizza Crust
You don’t need fancy equipment, but a few basics make the process easier:
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Parchment paper | Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal |
| Pizza stone or baking steel | Distributes heat for a crisp bottom |
| Metal spatula | Helps lift and slice the crust cleanly |
| Cheese grater | Freshly grated cheese blends better in crust mix |
Bonus tip: Use a rolling pin or hands to flatten the crust evenly for a consistent bake.
Even small improvements can drastically improve your results. With these pro tips, your next chicken crust pizza will be crispy, savory, and better than any store-bought low-carb pie.
Chicken crust pizza is more than just a keto trend—it’s a smart, protein-rich alternative to traditional dough that satisfies cravings without the carbs. Whether you’re following a strict low-carb lifestyle or just want to sneak in more protein, this crust hits the mark every time.
It’s flexible enough for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for weekend guests. From the viral 3-ingredient canned chicken pizza crust to gourmet versions topped with Caesar salad or buffalo chicken, there’s no limit to the combos you can try.
Final Tips for Perfect Chicken Crust Pizza
- Dry that chicken well – especially canned, to avoid soggy crusts.
- Bake the crust alone first – never add toppings to raw crust.
- Get creative with toppings – but keep them low-moisture.
- Portion leftovers – chicken crust reheats beautifully and freezes well.
Want to keep things fresh all week? Try prepping multiple crusts and storing them in the freezer—then top and bake as needed. You’ll always have a high-protein, low-carb meal ready to go.
Check out Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust if you want to explore another low-carb crust that’s creamy, cheesy, and equally delicious.
Chicken Crust Pizza FAQs Answered
What is chicken crust pizza?
Chicken crust pizza is a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza where the crust is made using chicken instead of flour. Typically, a mix of canned chicken, eggs, and cheese forms the base, which is baked until crispy. This high-protein, gluten-free option has gained popularity among keto, carnivore, and low-glycemic dieters.
What toppings go on chicken pizza?
The beauty of chicken pizza crust is that it works with nearly any topping you’d use on regular pizza. Popular choices include:
. Sugar-free marinara and mozzarella
. BBQ sauce, onions, and grilled chicken
. Caesar salad mix for a chicken crust caesar salad pizza
. Bacon, spinach, or even avocado
Just remember to keep toppings low in moisture to avoid a soggy crust.
Can you buy chicken pizza crust?
Yes, you can buy frozen chicken crust pizzas or just the crusts at many grocery stores. Brands like Real Good Foods and Costco’s Kirkland line offer pre-made keto chicken crust pizza options. However, making your own allows full control over ingredients and seasoning.
Is thin crust chicken pizza healthy?
Absolutely. Thin crust versions of chicken crust pizza are lower in calories, higher in protein, and much lower in carbohydrates than traditional or even whole wheat thin crusts. If baked properly and topped with clean ingredients, it’s a great option for those managing weight or blood sugar.
What is the most unhealthy thing in pizza?
In most commercial pizzas, the most unhealthy element is the highly processed, refined flour crust, followed closely by sugar-laden sauces and heavy processed meats. Chicken crust pizza eliminates most of these concerns by removing the carb-heavy dough and giving you full control over toppings.
Which pizza crust is healthiest?
Among all crust types, chicken pizza crust ranks as one of the healthiest. It’s:
. Low in carbs
. High in protein
. Gluten-free
. Grain-free
Other healthy crusts include cauliflower crust and cottage cheese pizza crust, like this Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust.
What pizza is healthiest?
The healthiest pizza is one that skips refined grains, uses lean protein, and loads up on veggies. Keto chicken crust pizza with sugar-free sauce, fresh herbs, and low-moisture cheese is a winning option. You can also try veggie-forward toppings like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms for added fiber and vitamins.
How unhealthy is pizza crust?
Traditional pizza crust can be quite unhealthy due to:
. High carb content (up to 40g per slice)
. Refined flours that spike blood sugar
. Gluten, which some people are sensitive to
By comparison, a pizza crust made with chicken has virtually no carbs, offers complete proteins, and is free from gluten and grains.
Is thin crust pizza high in calories?
It depends. A traditional thin crust pizza still contains refined flour and often the same calorie-heavy toppings. On the other hand, chicken crust pizza—even in thin form—is significantly lower in calories and carbs while higher in protein, especially when made with lean ingredients like shredded chicken and egg whites.
