Zesty Tex-Italian Pizza: A Roman-Inspired Fiery Delight
Tex-Italian Pizza for Two is a traditional Italian dish from
Central Italy, with a Texan twist. Crafted with whole wheat pizza dough, spicy barbecue sauce, Sicilian Jack cheese, and succulent roasted chicken, this recipe delivers
a vibrant burst of flavor and satisfying energy.
Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the pinnacle of lunch/dinner elegance.
The Story Behind Spicy Tex-Italian Pizza for Two
How to Make Spicy Tex-Italian Pizza for Two
Follow our traditional Roman technique for perfect results
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Cornmeal
- 1 piece Whole wheat pizza dough for a 10-12 inch pizza
- 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 ounces garlic and herb cream cheese spread
- 2 thinly sliced Roma tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Sicilian Jack Cheese (Pepper Jack can be substituted)
- 3 tablespoons spicy barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon whole-milk sour cream
- 1 cup cooked and shredded roasted white meat chicken (leftovers from Sunday dinner?)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese
The Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet inside to heat thoroughly. This is key for a crispy crust.
- On a lightly floured surface dusted with cornmeal, stretch or roll out the whole wheat pizza dough to a 10-12 inch circle.
- Carefully transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with Kosher salt and red pepper flakes.
- Evenly spread the garlic and herb cream cheese over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Arrange the thinly sliced Roma tomatoes over the cream cheese, then sprinkle with the Sicilian Jack cheese.
- Drizzle the spicy barbecue sauce strategically over the cheese and tomatoes, followed by an even layer of the shredded roasted chicken.
- Carefully slide the pizza, still on the parchment paper, onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is beginning to melt.
- Remove the pizza from the oven. Sprinkle the finely shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and return to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, or until the mozzarella is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Once baked to perfection, carefully transfer the pizza to a cutting board. Garnish with fresh basil and a dollop of whole-milk sour cream just before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Preheating your pizza stone or baking sheet thoroughly ensures a perfectly crisp crust, preventing a soggy bottom. A light brush of olive oil on the dough also aids in achieving a golden texture.
To deepen the Tex-Italian fusion, consider a pinch of smoked paprika in the barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of oregano over the tomatoes. A final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil after baking enhances all the fresh flavors.
Store any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven for best results, preserving the crispness.
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Wellness Note
While this Tex-Italian pizza offers a delightful flavor experience, its richness means it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Crafted with whole wheat dough and fresh vegetables, it aligns with Mediterranean principles when balanced with other lighter meals. The moderate protein from chicken contributes to satiety, making it a satisfying choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe authentic?
While ‘Tex-Italian’ suggests a fusion, this recipe honors traditional Italian pizza-making principles: quality dough, fresh toppings, and balanced flavors. It’s an authentic Gustoli interpretation, blending Mediterranean dietary benefits with a beloved American twist.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare the chicken and slice the tomatoes a day in advance. Assemble the pizza just before baking for the freshest taste and best crust texture. Leftovers store well for 2-3 days in the fridge and reheat beautifully in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp.
Is it healthy?
This pizza offers a balanced profile with whole grains, lean protein from chicken, and fresh vegetables. While it contains some rich ingredients like cream cheese and barbecue sauce, it can be a part of a healthy diet when enjoyed mindfully, providing sustained energy and satiety.
