Ingredients
Method
Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three shallow dishes: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko mixed with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in eggs, then coat thoroughly with seasoned panko. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let cool, then slice into strips.
Assemble and Bake Pizza
- Punch down risen dough and roll out on a floured surface to fit a 12-14 inch pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Transfer dough to pan and brush entire surface with olive oil, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
- Arrange sliced chicken pieces over the sauce and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and crispy on the bottom.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with torn basil leaves and dried oregano. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
The key to crispy crust is brushing with olive oil before adding sauce. This creates a barrier that prevents sogginess. You can make the dough up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before rolling. Leftover pizza keeps in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheats well in a 350°F oven.
