Quick Southwestern Pizza
A quick and flavorful Southwestern pizza featuring a crispy crust topped with cooked chicken, salsa, shredded mozzarella, onions, and bell peppers. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering, this easy-to-make dish combines bold flavors with minimal effort, ideal for those craving a spicy, cheesy pizza.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Move oven rack to the lowest position.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Grease a cookie sheet or a 12-inch pizza pan.
- Mix the Bisquick baking mix and hot water; beat vigorously for 20 strokes.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead about 60 times or until no longer sticky.
- Press the dough into a 13-inch circle on the prepared cookie sheet or press into the pizza pan, pinching the edge to form a 1/2-inch rim.
- Spread salsa or picante sauce over the dough.
- Top with cooked chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped onion, and bell pepper rings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicy salsa. If you don't have Bisquick, you can make a simple dough with flour, baking powder, salt, and water. Knead until smooth for a homemade version. Experiment with different toppings like black olives or corn for extra flavor. This pizza is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quick Southwestern Pizza with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Ramen Noodle Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top before serving for added flavor. Enjoy it as a fun weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crust's crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make it soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Southwestern Pizza contains roughly 626 calories, with 36g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (74% of the Daily Value), protein (72% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1995mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can substitute with cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt at different rates, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time. Assemble the pizza but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cooked chicken?
If you're looking for alternatives to chicken, try using cooked turkey, canned beans for a vegetarian option, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. These substitutions maintain the dish's heartiness and flavor while catering to your dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).