Mastering Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza: Your Ultimate Summer Flavor Adventure
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this incredible Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza! It’s not just a meal; it’s an event, perfect for those warm evenings when you want to fire up the grill and enjoy something truly special. Topped with an array of fresh, colorful vegetables, tender seasoned chicken, and a signature smoky chipotle sauce, this pizza offers a unique twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for an exciting weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable taste sensation. The magic happens right on your grill, imparting a beautiful char and smoky depth that an oven simply can’t replicate. Get ready to elevate your pizza night!
FREE Budget-Friendly Meal Plan!
Save thousands of dollars on food every year with my free budget-friendly meal plan ebook.
Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Southwest Chipotle Pizza
Crafting the perfect Southwest Chipotle Pizza starts with a careful selection of ingredients, each contributing to its distinctive flavor profile. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing for easy substitutions to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Let’s dive into the core components and how you can adapt them.
- Chicken breast: Lean and high in protein, chicken breast is the ideal base for our seasoned topping. For an even juicier and richer flavor, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They tend to stay more tender on the grill and absorb spices beautifully.
- Taco seasoning: This is where the “Southwest” magic truly happens, infusing the chicken with robust, aromatic flavors. You can opt for a high-quality store-bought taco seasoning for convenience. However, if you prefer a fresh, customizable approach, consider making a homemade Southwest spice blend. In a pinch, chili powder can provide a basic spice foundation, though it will lack the complexity of a full blend.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all other flavors. Adjust to taste, keeping in mind the seasoning blend may already contain some sodium.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and ensuring a smooth spread of ingredients. Any neutral oil such as avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil will work equally well.
- Pizza crust: The foundation of your pizza! A good quality store-bought pizza crust is the easiest option, saving you time and effort. However, if you enjoy baking, making your own pizza dough can be a rewarding experience. For those seeking a lighter or healthier alternative, experimenting with a cauliflower crust is an excellent choice, adding a nutritious boost without sacrificing flavor.
- Chipotle in adobo sauce: This ingredient is key to the pizza’s smoky, slightly spicy, and deeply savory “chipotle” character. The adobo sauce adds a rich, tangy dimension. While you can try substituting with chipotle powder, be aware that the flavor will be drier and less complex, lacking the saucy tang from the adobo.
- Pizza sauce: A simple can of pizza sauce works perfectly as the base layer. For a more homemade touch, you can blend a can of diced or crushed tomatoes with some herbs and garlic to create your own fresh sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a creamy, sharp, and familiar cheese pull. Feel free to use any other blend of cheese you prefer, such as classic mozzarella cheese for stretchiness, or a Mexican blend for an even more pronounced Southwest flavor.
- Bocconcini balls: These fresh, small mozzarella balls melt beautifully and add pockets of creamy, milky cheese. Alternatively, you can use larger fresh mozzarella balls, torn into pieces, or even luxurious pulled-apart burrata for an extra rich and creamy texture.
- Red pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color. Any other bell pepper color—yellow, orange, or green—can be used based on availability and preference.
- Red onion: Offers a sharp, pungent bite that mellows slightly when grilled, adding depth. Sweet onion or white onion are suitable substitutes, or you can omit the onion entirely if it’s not to your liking.
- Corn: Brings a delightful sweetness and textural contrast. For an added protein boost and a similar earthy flavor, black beans are a fantastic alternative, pairing wonderfully with the Southwest theme.
- Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the entire dish. If you’re not a fan or don’t have it, simply leave it out; the pizza will still be delicious.
- Avocado: Sliced fresh avocado is highly recommended for its creamy texture and healthy fats, adding a refreshing counterpoint to the smoky and spicy elements. If you’re in a pinch, you can leave it out entirely, or use a dollop of fresh guacamole for a similar effect.
- Red chili flakes: A optional garnish for those who love an extra kick of heat. If you prefer less spice, feel free to omit them altogether.
Grilling Your Way to Delicious: How to Make Southwest Chipotle Pizza
Making this grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza is a straightforward process that yields incredibly flavorful results. The key steps are designed to build layers of taste and ensure a perfectly cooked crust with gooey, melted cheese. Follow these simple instructions for a successful grilled pizza experience.
- Season and grill the chicken: Begin by prepping your chicken. Generously coat chicken breast halves with taco seasoning, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Grilling the chicken first ensures it’s cooked through, tender, and infused with smoky, savory flavors before being added to the pizza. This also provides juicy, flavorful bites in every slice.
- Prepare your toppings: While the chicken cools slightly, gather and prepare all your fresh pizza toppings. Slice your bocconcini, dice your red pepper and red onion, and chop your fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to mix the chipotle in adobo sauce with your pizza sauce to create that signature smoky-spicy base. Having everything ready makes the assembly process smooth and quick.
- Add the toppings to the crust: Once your chicken is sliced, it’s time to assemble the pizza. Spread your chipotle-infused pizza sauce evenly over the crust. Layer on the shredded cheddar, followed by the colorful diced vegetables, corn, and then your succulent grilled chicken pieces. Finish with the bocconcini balls, which will melt into delightful pools of creaminess.
- Grill for 10 minutes: Carefully transfer your assembled pizza to the preheated grill. Maintain a medium-low heat (around 400°F) to ensure the crust crisps up nicely without burning, while the cheese melts and the toppings warm through. Keep a close eye on it, as grills can vary in heat distribution.
- Cut into slices and enjoy!: Once the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, and the crust is golden and firm, remove the pizza from the grill. Let it rest for a minute or two before topping with fresh avocado slices and a sprinkle of red chili flakes (if desired). Then, slice it up with a sharp pizza cutter and serve immediately to savor every hot, smoky, and fresh bite!
Whip Up Your Own Homemade Taco Seasoning
Why settle for store-bought when you can easily create your own vibrant taco seasoning right at home? Making your own blend ensures you control the freshness and quality of ingredients, and it’s a fantastic way to avoid unwanted additives. Plus, it fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma! I love to prepare a generous batch and store it in an airtight glass container or a Ziploc baggie in my pantry, ready for any recipe that needs a kick of Southwest flavor, including this delicious chipotle pizza.
This simple blend uses everyday pantry staples and comes together in minutes. Just combine the following spices:
- Chili powder: The base of many Tex-Mex dishes, providing a deep, earthy heat.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, distinctive, and slightly smoky flavor that is quintessential to Southwest cuisine.
- Paprika: Contributes a sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful reddish hue. Smoked paprika can add even more depth.
- Garlic powder: Offers a savory, aromatic foundation without the raw bite of fresh garlic.
- Onion powder: A milder, sweeter alternative to fresh onion, integrating seamlessly into the blend.
- Oregano: Adds a herbaceous, slightly bitter note that complements the other spices.
- Red pepper flakes: For that optional, but recommended, burst of heat and visual appeal.
- Salt & pepper: The fundamental seasonings to balance and enhance all the other flavors.
Simply mix these ingredients thoroughly, and you’ll have a versatile, flavorful seasoning blend ready to transform your chicken, tacos, and of course, your grilled southwest chipotle pizza!
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza
Chipotle pizza is a dynamic and flavorful dish inspired by Southwest cuisine, featuring smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce as its star ingredient. This particular recipe takes it a step further by grilling the pizza, infusing it with an irresistible smoky char. It’s typically topped with bold ingredients like seasoned chicken (often with taco seasoning), sweet corn, and creamy avocado, creating a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and fresh flavors. The beauty of this pizza is its adaptability; you can customize the toppings with various vegetables, cheeses, or even other proteins to match your taste and whatever fresh ingredients you have available.
Absolutely! Cooking pizza on the grill is not only possible but highly recommended, especially during the warmer months. It provides a unique smoky flavor and a wonderfully crisp crust that’s difficult to achieve in a conventional oven. For this recipe, the pizza cooks relatively quickly on the grill, usually in about 10 minutes at a medium-low heat of approximately 400°F (200°C). The trick is to keep a close watch on it, rotating as needed, to prevent the crust from burning while ensuring the cheese melts beautifully and the toppings are heated through. Grilling also keeps your kitchen cool, making it a perfect summer cooking method.
This delicious homemade grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza contains approximately 321 calories per serving (based on 8 slices per pizza). It offers a balanced meal with a good amount of protein and fiber. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, there are several easy adjustments you can make without sacrificing flavor. Consider using low-fat shredded cheese or opting for a lighter crust option, such as a cauliflower crust. You can also increase the vegetable content and slightly reduce the amount of cheese for a fresher, lighter meal.
The level of spice in this Southwest Chipotle Pizza is entirely customizable! The primary source of heat comes from the chipotles in adobo sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less adobo sauce or scrape out some of the seeds from the chipotle peppers before mixing them into your pizza sauce. The red chili flakes used for garnish are also optional, allowing you to control the final kick. For those who love heat, feel free to add extra chipotle, more chili flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce.
This vibrant Southwest Chipotle Pizza pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For an alcoholic option, a crisp, light-bodied beer like a lager or a pale ale can cut through the richness and complement the smoky flavors. A dry rosé or a fruity Sauvignon Blanc would also be excellent wine choices. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, iced tea, a refreshing limeade, or even sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh citrus will complement the spicy and fresh notes of the pizza perfectly, enhancing the overall summer dining experience.
Storing and Reheating Your Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza
This grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. If you’re meal prepping or simply have a few slices left, proper storage is key to maintaining its deliciousness. I typically store my meal prep pizza in durable glass meal prep containers or sturdy freezer bags for convenient access. When properly stored, the pizza will remain fresh and tasty in the refrigerator for about 3 days, making it an excellent option for busy schedules.
A crucial tip for keeping your leftovers fresh: if you’ve added fresh avocado, I highly recommend storing it separately and, if possible, uncut until you’re ready to serve. This prevents any undesirable browning or oxidization that can occur. If you only have half an avocado remaining, a simple sprinkle of lemon juice or lime juice over the exposed flesh can act as a protective layer, slowing down the browning process significantly.
When it comes to reheating, you have a few options depending on your preference and time constraints. For a super quick reheat, you can place a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. While convenient, this method might result in a softer crust. My personal preference, and what I highly recommend for the best texture, is to reheat it in a toaster oven or a conventional oven. This method helps to restore the crust’s delightful crispiness. Simply pop the pizza into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is re-melted and the crust is crisp. After reheating, top with fresh avocado slices for that refreshing creamy finish, and it will taste almost as good as fresh off the grill!
Freezing This Recipe for Future Enjoyment
One of the best features of this Southwest Chipotle Pizza is that it’s incredibly freezer-friendly, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping and having a delicious, homemade dinner ready in a flash! Pizzas, especially those with robust toppings like this one, freeze exceptionally well. All you need to do is assemble your flatbread exactly as instructed, but hold off on baking it. Instead, it goes straight into the freezer for later.
To freeze the pizza effectively, ensure it’s fully assembled with all its toppings (excluding fresh avocado, which should always be added after cooking). Then, carefully wrap the entire pizza tightly in plastic wrap, or place it in a large, heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring the toppings side is facing up to avoid crushing. This will protect it from freezer burn and preserve its flavors. Your frozen pizza can be stored for up to 2 months, offering a wonderfully convenient, last-minute dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste!
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pizza, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Remove the plastic wrap and place the pizza directly from the freezer onto a baking sheet. Pop it into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Allow it to cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden and crispy. Once out of the oven, add your fresh avocado slices, cut, and serve. This method ensures a perfectly cooked pizza with minimal effort, proving that delicious, homemade meals can be both convenient and satisfying, even on the busiest nights.
More Delicious Pizza and Flatbread Recipes to Try
If you’ve enjoyed this Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza, you’ll love exploring other flavorful pizza and flatbread creations. These recipes offer similar ease and deliciousness, perfect for any occasion:
- Roasted Vegetable Flatbread: A delightful vegetarian option packed with seasonal roasted veggies.
- Easy Steak Gorgonzola Flatbread: A more gourmet option featuring tender steak and pungent Gorgonzola cheese.
- Meal Prep Taco Pizzas: Perfect for individual servings and easy meal planning throughout the week.
Essential Meal Prep Tools for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make your meal preparation smoother and more efficient, especially when planning to make this grilled pizza or any other delicious dish:
- Grab some glass meal prep bowlsif you plan on packing this pizza for lunches or storing it in the freezer.
- I always get my chicken and other high-quality meats from Butcher Box, ensuring premium ingredients for all my recipes!
- Order a pizza cutter online to effortlessly slice through and serve this delicious grilled pizza!
Grilled Southwest Chipotle Pizza
Print
Pin
Rate
SEND ME MY PLAN
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast
- 2 tsp taco seasoning or Southwest spice blend
- Pinch salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 premade pizza crust
- 1 can chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 can Pizza Sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup mini bocconcini balls, sliced
- 1/2 red pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Corn
- 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- Red chili flakes, for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat BBQ to high heat (500 F). Cut raw chicken breast in half, then coat each piece in taco seasoning, olive oil and a bit of salt, rubbing all over chicken well. Grill for 10-15 min, flipping once. Remove from heat once cooked and slice up once cooled. Turn BBQ to med-low heat (400 F).
-
Meanwhile, prepare pizza toppings. Mix 1 tbsp adobo sauce with pizza sauce and spread over pizza crust. Top with cheddar cheese and spread red pepper, red onion and corn all over pizza. Add a bit of salt to season, and then add chicken and top with bocconcini cheese slices.
-
Place pizza on the grill (making sure heat is much lower) and cook for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Remove from heat and top with cilantro and red chili flakes. Cut using a pizza cutter, top with avocado slices and serve with your favourite summer wine! Enjoy!
Notes
Customize the toppings to include your favourite veggies.
For a lower-calorie option, you can make this pizza using cauliflower crust.
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster oven or the oven and top with fresh avocado.
Freeze this pizza for up to 2 months in plastic wrap or a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen in the oven.
Nutrition
