Make This Irresistibly Quick Cranberry Chicken And Brie Pizza For Dinner

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Main Dishes

Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 22–25 minutes
Servings: 1 pizza (2–3 servings)

Picture this: a crackling-hot oven, the aroma of roasting chicken, melted brie, and tangy cranberries filling your kitchen. This quick cranberry chicken and brie pizza is the sort of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. It’s easy to prepare, yet looks and tastes like it required much more effort. The sweet-tart cranberry sauce plays beautifully against juicy chicken and buttery brie, all on top of a crisp crust. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pizza promises a little celebration in every bite.

What Is Cranberry Chicken and Brie Pizza?

Think of this as an elevated pizza with a hint of the holidays. It starts with a classic pizza base, topped with tender bits of cooked chicken and thick slices of rich brie cheese. A swirl of cranberry sauce adds a pop of sweetness and color. The result is a perfectly balanced mix of savory and sweet, with a delightful contrast of textures: crunchy crust, gooey cheese, moist chicken, and bursts of tart cranberry. It’s no wonder this combination has been popping up in kitchens and restaurants alike—it’s surprisingly simple yet delivers sophisticated flavor.

Bonus Tip: Using leftover rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster to assemble!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Chicken and Brie Pizza

  • Flavor Explosion: The interplay of sweet, sour, and savory makes each bite complex and satisfying.

  • Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.

  • Nutritious Yet Indulgent: Lean chicken delivers high-quality proteinpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, while cranberries pack vitamin C and antioxidantscranberries.org.

  • Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love its vibrant flavors.

  • Customizable: Swap toppings, change cheeses, or choose a gluten-free crust.

  • Seasonal Charm: Fresh cranberries shine in autumn and winter.

  • Beautiful Presentation: Its colorful toppings and melted cheese look impressive enough for guests.

Extra Idea: Toss some fresh arugula on top after baking for a peppery, fresh contrast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

  • Pizza Dough: Homemade, pre-made, or store-bought—choose what fits your schedule.

  • Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken saves time; grilled or roasted chicken works, too.

  • Brie Cheese: Choose a creamy, high-quality brie for the richest flavor.

  • Cranberry Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought variety or make your own for more control over sweetness.

Additional Ingredients

  • Olive Oil: Brushing the crust adds flavor and helps it crisp up.

  • Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary enhances the aroma and taste.

  • Goat Cheese (optional): Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.

  • Red Onion: Thin slices give a slight crunch and sweetness.

Ingredient Substitute
Brie Cheese Camembert or cream cheese
Chicken Breast Leftover turkey or marinated tofu
Pizza Dough Naan bread or flatbread
Cranberry Sauce Raspberry or grape jam

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Heat your oven to 475 °F (245 °C). A hot oven ensures a crisp crust. Place a pizza stone inside if you have one.

    Pro Tip: Let the dough sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling to make it more pliable.

  2. Prepare the Dough
    Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a floured pizza peel.

    Pro Tip: Use a fork to poke small holes in the base to prevent air bubbles.

  3. Brush with Olive Oil
    Brush the dough with olive oil, including the edges. This helps create a golden, crunchy crust.

    Pro Tip: Infuse the oil with garlic or herbs for extra flavor.

  4. Add the Chicken
    Scatter cooked chicken pieces evenly over the crust. Avoid overloading it so the toppings cook evenly.

    Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken briefly in balsamic vinegar before cooking for a deeper flavor.

  5. Drizzle the Cranberry Sauce
    Spoon or drizzle cranberry sauce over the chicken. Adjust the amount to suit your taste; a little goes a long way.

    Pro Tip: A spiced cranberry sauce adds warmth and complexity.

  6. Layer the Brie
    Slice the brie and distribute it around the pizza. Leave space for the cheese to melt without overflowing.

    Pro Tip: If you prefer, remove the rind from the brie for a smoother texture.

  7. Bake
    Slide the pizza into the oven on the stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the brie is bubbling.

    Pro Tip: If using a stone, preheat it for at least 30 minutes for the crispiest crust.

  8. Final Touches
    Remove the pizza and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh herbs or arugula for color and freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness.

  9. Slice and Serve
    Cut into wedges or squares and serve while warm. Pair with a simple salad for a complete meal.

Advanced Technique: Grill the pizza on an outdoor grill for a slightly smoky flavor and charred crust.

Chef Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

  • Vegan: Use marinated tofu and vegan cheese instead of chicken and brie.

  • Gluten-Free: Swap the dough for a gluten-free crust or a cauliflower base.

  • Spice It Up: Add garlic, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to the sauce or toppings.

  • Time-Savers: Pre-chop toppings and make the sauce ahead of time.

  • Cheese Experiments: Try gouda, feta, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

Extra Variation: Caramelized onions add a sweet, mellow depth that pairs well with brie.

What to Serve With Cranberry Chicken and Brie Pizza

  • Mixed Green Salad: A light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza.

  • Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies make a hearty side.

  • Wine Pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or a buttery Chardonnay complements the flavors.

  • Soup: Tomato basil or butternut squash soup adds warmth and comfort.

  • Cheese Platter: For entertaining, serve a small cheese board with fruit alongside the pizza.

More Inspiration: A berry compote makes a fun dipping sauce for any extra crust.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slices in a 375 °F oven for about 8–10 minutes to regain crispness. You can also freeze individual slices for quick lunches.

If you’re prepping ahead, cook the chicken, make the cranberry sauce, and slice the cheese a day in advance. Keep each in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.

Meal Prep Bonus: Freeze assembled but unbaked pizzas and cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition Highlights

This pizza offers a balanced profile of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Chicken provides high-quality protein and all essential amino acidspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, while cranberries contribute vitamin C and a variety of antioxidantscranberries.org. Brie adds calcium and a touch of indulgent fat. Adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms increases fiber and micronutrient content.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I prepare the pizza in advance?
    Yes. Prep the toppings and store them separately, or assemble the pizza and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

  2. Can I use frozen dough?
    Absolutely. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before rolling.

  3. How do I reheat leftover pizza?
    Heat it in a 375 °F oven for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy bottom.

  4. What cheeses can I substitute for brie?
    Camembert, gouda, mozzarella, or cream cheese all work well.

  5. Is this pizza kid-friendly?
    Yes! Children often enjoy the sweet cranberry sauce paired with the cheesy goodness. You can adjust the amount of sauce to suit their taste.

Variants Section

  • Buffalo Chicken and Brie: Replace cranberry sauce with buffalo sauce and drizzle ranch after baking.

  • Vegetarian Cranberry Pizza: Skip the chicken and add spinach or sautéed mushrooms.

  • Pesto Chicken and Brie: Swap the cranberry sauce for pesto.

  • Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza: Use turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

  • Apple and Brie Pizza: Use thinly sliced apples and a drizzle of honey.

  • BBQ Chicken and Brie: Use barbecue sauce instead of cranberries.

  • Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeños for a sweet–spicy kick.

Conclusion

This cranberry chicken and brie pizza is more than just dinner—it’s a flavorful experience that combines savory, sweet, and creamy elements in perfect harmony. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Once you see how quickly it comes together and how quickly it disappears, you’ll want to add it to your regular recipe rotation. Enjoy the delicious blend of tender chicken, melted brie, and tangy cranberries tonight!

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