Hatch Green Chile Chicken Pizza

Hatch Green Chile Chicken Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the robust flavors of roasted Hatch green chiles with tender shredded chicken and a creamy garlic sauce. The vibrant jalapeños add a touch of heat, while the melty mozzarella cheese ties everything together beautifully.

This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a great way to bring a bit of Southwestern flair to your pizza night. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this pizza is sure to impress!

Hatch Green Chile Chicken Pizza

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons flour

5-6 garlic cloves, chopped

1 cup white wine

3/4 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cups Hatch green chiles (canned green chiles also work), seeded and diced

1 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon cumin

Pizza dough

3/4 cup roasted chicken, shredded

Juice of 1 lime

Shredded mozzarella

Chopped fresh cilantro, optional topping

Instructions

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the jalapeños and cook for about 2 minutes until softened.

Whisk in the flour and continue stirring until the mixture becomes a golden brown roux.

Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the cumin, heavy cream, and 1 cup of Hatch green chiles. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens. Once done, stir in the juice of half a lime.

Meanwhile, place the shredded chicken in a bowl and mix it with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and the juice of half a lime. Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Spread a few spoonfuls of the hatch chile sauce over the dough, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Layer the chicken on top of the sauce.

Add the remaining green chiles and sprinkle shredded mozzarella over everything.

Bake the pizza in the oven for 10-14 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes:

Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder pizza, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a different type of pepper. Conversely, adding more green chiles can increase the heat.

Sauce Consistency: Make sure to simmer the sauce until it thickens, as this prevents the pizza from becoming soggy. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more cream or broth.

Chicken Options: You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience, or grill and shred your own chicken for a fresher flavor.

Dough Variations: If you’re short on time, pre-made pizza dough or even store-bought pizza crusts work well. Gluten-free options are available if needed.

Toppings: Feel free to customize your pizza with additional toppings such as black olives, corn, or different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar.

Baking Tip: Keep an eye on the pizza while it’s baking, as oven temperatures can vary. You want the crust to be golden brown and the cheese bubbly.

Serving Suggestions: This pizza pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of guacamole for a complete meal.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 slices | SERVING SIZE: 1 slice

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough can be used as a convenient alternative to homemade dough.

Just make sure to follow the package instructions for any required preparation steps, such as thawing or proofing.

How spicy is this pizza with the addition of jalapenos and Hatch green chiles?

The spiciness level can vary depending on personal taste preferences and the specific jalapenos and Hatch green chiles used.

Generally, the jalapenos and green chiles provide a moderate level of heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely to control the spice level.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative to reduce the calorie content?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with lighter alternatives such as half-and-half or milk to reduce the calorie content.

Keep in mind that this substitution may affect the richness and creaminess of the sauce, so adjust according to your preference.

Is there a vegetarian option for this pizza?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this pizza by omitting the roasted chicken.

You can also add other vegetarian toppings such as sautéed vegetables or additional varieties of cheese to customize it to your liking.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later use?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days.

When ready to use, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop until warmed through before spreading it on the pizza dough.

Can I use pre-made pizza crust instead of making my own dough?

Yes, you can use pre-made pizza crust for convenience.

Just follow the instructions on the packaging for baking or preparation.

What can I use as a substitute for white wine in the sauce?

You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the white wine if you prefer.

It will alter the flavor slightly, but still contribute to the overall richness of the sauce.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the pizza to suit different preferences?

To adjust the spiciness, you can vary the amount of jalapeno and Hatch green chiles used.

Additionally, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno for a milder flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days.

Just reheat it before using it on the pizza.

Do I need to cook the chicken before putting it on the pizza?

The roasted chicken should be cooked before placing it on the pizza.

Shred the cooked chicken and season it as directed in the recipe before topping the pizza.

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh cilantro as a topping?

Yes, you can use dried cilantro as a substitute for fresh cilantro.

However, dried cilantro has a more concentrated flavor, so you may want to use it sparingly.

How can I prevent the pizza from becoming soggy with too much sauce?

To prevent the pizza from becoming soggy, ensure that you spread the sauce evenly and thinly over the pizza dough.

Avoid adding too much sauce, as it can make the crust soggy.

Can I use frozen green chiles instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green chiles instead of canned ones.

Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using them in the recipe.

Is there a way to make the pizza gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough or make your own gluten-free pizza crust using alternative flours such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

What other toppings could I add to enhance the flavor of the pizza?

You can add toppings such as sliced onions, bell peppers, black olives, or cooked bacon to enhance the flavor of the pizza and customize it to your liking.