It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This Chicken Enchilada Pizza is your new secret weapon for busy fall evenings. It delivers big flavor with very little effort.
This recipe brings together two family favorites in one pan. It is fresh, filling, and incredibly satisfying. You can have it on the table in just 30 minutes. Your family will love this fun twist on pizza night.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a huge win for busy parents. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have. It is the perfect way to use up leftover shredded chicken. You get a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
The fusion of flavors is simply wonderful. It is hearty enough for a cool fall night. Kids love the cheesy goodness and familiar pizza crust. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a hungry crowd.
Simple Method
Making this pizza is as easy as it gets. You just layer your favorite toppings and bake. Using a pre-baked crust makes it even faster. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. It is completely stress-free cooking for any night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These fresh ingredients create a beautiful rainbow of colors on your crust.
- 1 12-inch pizza dough or pre-baked crust
- 1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup frozen sweet corn, thawed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 medium avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Prepare the pizza crust on a piece of parchment paper or a floured surface.
- Spread the red enchilada sauce evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust.
- Distribute the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion uniformly over the sauce layer.
- Cover the toppings with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the pizza to rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Top with fresh avocado slices and chopped cilantro, then drizzle with lime juice immediately before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this pizza hot and fresh from the oven. The creamy avocado adds a lovely cool touch. A squeeze of fresh lime juice makes every bite bright. Pair it with a crisp side salad for a balanced meal.
It is perfect for a cozy movie night at home. Set the table and let everyone grab a slice. This meal is guaranteed to be a kid-approved favorite. Enjoy the smiles around your dinner table tonight.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for three days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. This keeps the crust nice and crispy. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture perfect.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the fresh lime juice at the end.
- Avoid over-topping the pizza so the crust stays crisp.
- Use a rotisserie chicken to save precious prep time.
- Preheat your baking sheet for a much crispier bottom.
- Add extra cheese for a truly indulgent weekend treat.
- Swap red onion for green onions for a milder flavor.
- Rinse your black beans well to keep the sauce bright.
- Let the pizza rest before slicing to keep toppings intact.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Use a gluten-free crust for a diet-friendly option.
- Swap the chicken for black beans to make it vegetarian.
- Try green enchilada sauce for a tangy, zesty twist.
- Add pickled jalapeños if you love a spicy kick.
- Use honey instead of lime for a sweet finish.
Quick Answers
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep all your toppings the night before. Just assemble and bake when you are ready for dinner. This makes your weeknight routine even smoother.
What is the best cheese to use?
Monterey Jack is perfect because it melts so beautifully. You could also use a Mexican blend for extra flavor. Just ensure you shred it yourself for the best melt.
Can I use frozen pizza dough?
Yes, frozen dough works great for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before stretching. It makes this Chicken Enchilada Pizza very easy to prepare.
I hope this cozy pizza brings a little joy to your busy week. It is a simple way to make dinner feel special. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy bite!
— Lidia
Chicken Enchilada Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 12 -inch pizza dough or pre-baked crust
- 1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup frozen sweet corn, thawed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 medium avocado , sliced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Prepare the pizza crust on a piece of parchment paper or a floured surface.
- Spread the red enchilada sauce evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust.
- Distribute the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion uniformly over the sauce layer.
- Cover the toppings with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the pizza to rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Top with fresh avocado slices and chopped cilantro, then drizzle with lime juice immediately before slicing and serving.
