Description
This Chicken Shawarma Pizza is a quick and flavorful fusion dish combining the savory spices of traditional shawarma with the cheesy goodness of pizza. Using pita bread as the base, it offers a deliciously crispy and easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pita Base
- 4-6 pita rounds
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1-2 teaspoons shawarma seasoning (see notes)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 4 teaspoons balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon flaky salt
- Fresh basil, chopped, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Oil Pita: Place the pita rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over each pita, then spread it gently with a brush or your fingers to coat the surface for a crispy crust.
- Prepare Toppings: In a bowl, mix the cooked chopped chicken with the shawarma seasoning until well combined to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each olive-oiled pita. Next, add the seasoned chicken, cherry tomato halves, and thin slices of red onion if using, layering them carefully for balanced flavors and textures.
- Add Balsamic and Salt: Drizzle each pita evenly with the balsamic glaze, followed by a sprinkle of flaky salt to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the red onions start to caramelize to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven. Immediately sprinkle chopped fresh basil over each pita for a fragrant, fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Shawarma seasoning typically includes a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, and coriander. You can use a store-bought mix or make your own.
- Adjust the amount of shawarma seasoning according to your spice preference.
- Use fresh balsamic glaze for best flavor; it adds a sweet tangy contrast to the savory toppings.
- The recipe works well with leftover cooked chicken but freshly cooked or grilled chicken also works great.
- Feel free to add other toppings like bell peppers or olives according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
