Hey y'all! If you're craving that irresistible combo of spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, gooey cheese, and a crispy crust—but want to keep it healthy and packed with protein—this Buffalo chicken Protein Pizza (Air Fryer & High-Protein!) is about to be your new favorite. Whether you're making a game-day snack, meal prepping for the week, or just want a guilt-free comfort food fix, this quick and easy pizza will hit the spot. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Loaded with protein to keep you full and energized.
- Ready in just 25 minutes thanks to the air fryer.
- Mouthwatering buffalo chicken flavor in every bite.
- Guilt-free with a low-carb, high-fiber crust.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and spice level.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt)
- 1 cup (225g) plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop (about 30g) unflavored or savory protein powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup (120g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 tablespoon buffalo sauce (plus more for drizzling, if desired)
- ⅓ cup (35g) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoon crumbled reduced-fat blue cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoon thinly sliced red onion
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
- Nonstick cooking spray
Directions
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
1. Make the High-Protein Dough
- In a large bowl, combine self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, protein powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until a dough forms.
- Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Roll the dough into a 10-inch round or oval shape (about ¼-inch thick).
2. Pre-Cook the Crust
- Spray your air fryer basket with nonstick spray.
- Carefully transfer dough to the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 5 minutes until the crust is set but not fully browned.
3. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Topping
- While the crust cooks, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce in a bowl.
4. Assemble and Cook the Pizza
- Remove the partially cooked crust and top with the buffalo chicken mixture, mozzarella cheese, blue cheese (if using), and red onion slices.
- Return pizza to the air fryer. Cook for another 7-9 minutes at 370°F (188°C), or until cheese is melted and crust is golden-crisp.
- Carefully lift out pizza, cool for 2 minutes, then garnish with chopped green onion or parsley and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- If your dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of extra flour at a time while kneading.
- For extra crispy edges, brush the crust with olive oil before the final air fry.
- Use a piece of parchment paper for easy lifting in and out of the air fryer.
Variations
- BBQ Chicken Protein Pizza: Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce and add sliced jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Protein Pizza: Replace chicken with grilled or roasted chickpeas or tofu chunks.
- Ranch Buffalo Pizza: Drizzle light ranch dressing over the finished pizza for a creamy zing.
Required Equipment
- Air fryer (basket style recommended, 5 qt or larger)
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin (or use hands to shape)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or tongs
Storage Instructions
Let any leftovers cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes, or microwave until just warmed through. This pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also freeze individual slices (wrapped tightly) for up to 1 month.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Pair with crunchy celery and carrot sticks for classic Buffalo vibes.
- Serve alongside a fresh side salad with ranch or bleu cheese dressing.
- Enjoy with baked sweet potato fries or air fryer cauliflower for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips
- Try different protein powders—unflavored or a savory blend works best!
- Don’t overload the toppings to ensure the crust stays crisp.
- For easy handling, transfer the shaped dough on parchment for the first air fry.
FAQ
- Can I use a store-bought crust?
- Absolutely! Just adjust air frying time if the crust is already pre-cooked—about 5 minutes is all you need to heat and melt the cheese.
- What protein powder works best?
- Unflavored whey or plant-based protein works great, but avoid sweetened or vanilla flavors for best taste.
- Can I bake this in the oven?
- Yes! Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (205°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and toppings are bubbly.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-inch) high-protein flatbread or pizza crust
- 150 g cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 60 g non-fat Greek yogurt
- 50 g part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray
Instructions
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1In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken breast with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
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2In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with garlic powder to make the sauce.
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3Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the high-protein flatbread or pizza crust in the basket.
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4Spread the Greek yogurt sauce evenly on the crust. Top with buffalo chicken, mozzarella cheese, and blue cheese.
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5Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is crisp.
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6Remove pizza, sprinkle with chopped green onions, slice, and serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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