If you’re looking for a fun and tasty twist on Taco Tuesday, Chicken Mexican Pizzas are the perfect choice.
This easy recipe combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the cheesy, satisfying elements of pizza, making it a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these scrumptious, crunchy pizzas with a Mexican flair.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose boneless and skinless for ease of preparation.
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavors.
- 2 tsp chili powder: Adds a rich, warm spice.
- 1 tsp cumin: For a hint of earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp dried cilantro: Brings a fresh, herby taste.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Adds a touch of heat; adjust to taste.
- 12 small fajita-sized flour tortillas: These will serve as the base for your pizzas.
- 1 can refried beans: Provides a creamy, savory layer.
- Taco sauce: Adds a zesty kick.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Use a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby Jack for a creamy, melty topping.
- Diced tomatoes: For a fresh, juicy finish.
- Chopped green onions: Adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the tortillas.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into thin strips or small cubes. This helps ensure even cooking and makes it easier to handle. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Season the Chicken: Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, dried cilantro, and cayenne pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add a clove of minced garlic if you have it on hand. Stir the chicken occasionally, cooking until it’s well browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Fry the Tortillas: While the chicken cooks, you can prepare the tortillas. In a separate skillet, heat a thin layer of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, lightly fry each tortilla on both sides until golden brown and crispy. Place the fried tortillas on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Refried Beans: To make spreading easier, heat the refried beans until they’re warm and slightly more fluid. This step helps them spread smoothly over the tortillas.
- Assemble the Pizzas: Spread a layer of refried beans over each tortilla. Add a scoop of the cooked chicken on top of the beans. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then top with another fried tortilla. Drizzle some taco sauce over the top tortilla and finish with more shredded cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Fresh Toppings: After baking, remove the pizzas from the oven and top them with diced tomatoes and chopped green onions. These fresh toppings add a vibrant color and a burst of flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the Chicken Mexican Pizzas into wedges and serve hot. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a side salad or some salsa.
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat, or sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Keep Tortillas Crisp: If you prefer your tortillas extra crispy, bake them for a few extra minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Make It a Family Activity: Get the whole family involved in assembling the pizzas. It’s a fun way to make mealtime more interactive.
Chicken Mexican Pizzas are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making them a great option for any Taco Tuesday or a weeknight dinner.
Enjoy the fusion of taco and pizza flavors in every bite!