Chicken Crust Pizza – Easy, Low-Carb & High-Protein Dinner

Introduction

Looking for a high-protein, low-carb pizza that satisfies your cravings without sabotaging your goals? This Chicken Crust Pizza is the ultimate solution. Instead of traditional dough, the base is made from ground chicken, eggs, and cheese—creating a firm, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free crust that holds up beautifully to all your favorite toppings.

It’s perfect for anyone on a keto, bariatric, or high-protein diet, and it’s a fantastic way to meal prep for the week. Crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and topped with whatever you love, this pizza proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up comfort food.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses minimal, clean ingredients that are naturally high in protein and low in carbs. Here’s what goes into both the crust and the toppings:

Ground Chicken

Use lean ground chicken (93–96%) for structure without excess fat.
You can also use ground turkey if preferred.

Egg

Acts as a binder for the crust.
One large egg per pound of chicken works well.

Parmesan Cheese

Adds flavor, crispness, and binding power.
Grated or shredded both work.

Seasonings for the Crust

Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper are classic.
You can also add crushed red pepper for a little kick.

Toppings (Customize as Needed)

Low-carb marinara or pizza sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, spinach, or bell peppers
Keep it keto with sugar-free sauces and low-carb veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making chicken crust pizza is easier than you think and takes just a few steps from prep to bake.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Crust

In a bowl, combine:

1 lb ground chicken
1 egg
⅓ cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp salt
Black pepper to taste

Use clean hands or a spatula to mix until fully combined.

3. Form the Crust

Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking sheet.
Press it into a thin, even circle or rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

Tip: Lightly oil your hands or use parchment paper on top to help flatten without sticking.

4. Bake the Crust

Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cooked through.
Carefully remove and dab off any excess moisture or fat with paper towels.

5. Add Toppings

Spread with 3–4 tbsp low-carb pizza sauce.
Add shredded mozzarella and your favorite keto-friendly toppings.
Return to oven for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Slice & Serve

Let cool for 3–5 minutes, then slice and enjoy!
Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife for clean slices.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

For an extra crispy crust, flip the crust after 15 minutes and bake another 5 before adding toppings.
Don’t overload with sauce—it can soften the crust.
Add a bit of shredded mozzarella to the crust mix for more structure if needed.

Variations:

Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Use ranch or blue cheese instead of marinara and top with buffalo sauce, chicken, and red onions.
BBQ Chicken: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce, red onions, and smoked Gouda or mozzarella.
Mediterranean: Top with olives, feta, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.

Substitutions:

Ground Turkey: Works just like ground chicken for similar macros.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives; skip Parmesan or sub nutritional yeast.
Egg-Free: Try 1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water (flax egg), though texture may be softer.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This pizza is versatile enough for any meal or event—and it fits perfectly into macro-friendly meal plans.

Serve With:

Zucchini fries, cauliflower rice, or a fresh kale Caesar salad
A sugar-free soda or infused sparkling water
Ranch dressing or garlic dip (keto-approved)

Best For:

Weeknight dinners that feel indulgent but stay on track
Meal prep—store slices in the fridge and reheat easily
Post-workout recovery with high protein and low carbs
Family pizza night with a healthy twist

Nutritional & Health Notes

This chicken crust pizza is a protein powerhouse. It’s low in carbs, high in nutrients, and naturally gluten-free.

Estimated Per Slice (1/4 pizza, without toppings):

Calories: 230
Protein: 25g
Fat: 13g
Total Carbs: 2g
Net Carbs: ~1g
Fiber: 1g

Why It’s Great:

Perfect for keto, bariatric, high-protein, and gluten-free diets
Keeps you full longer with a solid balance of fat and protein
Easy to portion for macro tracking or meal planning

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned chicken for the crust?

A1: Yes! Drain and shred two 5 oz cans of chicken, then mix with egg and cheese to form the crust. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q2: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

A2: Absolutely. Bake the crust, cool completely, then freeze it plain or topped. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

Q3: Can I make it in an air fryer?

A3: Yes, if your air fryer is large enough. Cook crust at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, then add toppings and air fry another 5 minutes.

Q4: How do I make the crust less soft?

A4: Bake longer or flip midway. Also, press the mixture very thin (¼ inch) and dab off excess grease.

Q5: Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

A5: Definitely. Make two pizzas on separate trays and store slices in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Q6: What cheese works best for the crust?

A6: Parmesan adds crispness, but mozzarella or cheddar can be mixed in for a slightly softer texture.

Q7: What sauces are keto-friendly?

A7: Look for sauces with no added sugar. Popular options include Rao’s Homemade, Yo Mama’s, or homemade sauces using crushed tomatoes and herbs.