As I prepped for yet another weeknight meal, I quickly realized the fridge was brimming with leftover holiday chicken. Enter my secret weapon: Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza! The unexpected blend of tangy cranberry sauce, velvety Brie, and tender, shredded chicken creates a delightful medley that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish. What I love most about this recipe is its impeccable timing—it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those holiday leftovers while treating your taste buds to something unique and scrumptious. Are you ready to dive into this delicious twist on pizza? Let’s get cooking! Why is Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy cranberry sauce blended with rich Brie and savory chicken creates a heavenly taste adventure that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Quick Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Leftover Hero: This recipe is an ingenious way to utilize leftover holiday chicken or turkey, helping to minimize waste while maximizing flavor. Versatile Offering: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add fresh greens for a personal touch. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress! Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique flavor profile, this pizza is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Pair it with a refreshing salad or light soup for a complete meal. For more ideas, check out our Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup for delicious comfort food alternatives! Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Ingredients For the Pizza Base • Pizza Crust – Use a pre-made crust for convenience, or create your own for a personal touch. For the Toppings • Shredded Chicken – This hearty ingredient adds protein; leftover turkey can be used instead for a festive twist. • Cranberry Sauce – Adds a delightful tanginess; whole-berry cranberry sauce is best for texture. • Brie Cheese – Brings creaminess and richness; Camembert is a suitable substitute if desired. • Mozzarella Cheese – Key for that gooey melt; low-moisture mozzarella yields the best results. • Red Onion – Offers a crunchy texture and a hint of spice; switch to shallots for a milder flavor. • Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and helps the crust crisp up perfectly; brush it onto the crust. • Thyme, Salt & Pepper – These seasonings elevate the overall taste; feel free to add Italian herbs for variation. • Fresh Arugula or Spinach – Provides a vibrant, peppery finish; basil or mixed greens work well as substitutes. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza bakes evenly and achieves that golden crust you crave. If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating to mimic a pizzeria-style bake. Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Crust Roll out your pizza crust onto a baking sheet or pizza stone, stretching it to your desired thickness. Lightly brush the crust with olive oil to promote crispiness, enhancing the texture of your pizza. You should see a nice sheen on the dough, which will help the pizza brown beautifully as it bakes. Step 3: Mix the Chicken and Cranberry Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with cranberry sauce until the chicken is evenly coated. This delicious mixture will be the star of your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Aim for a nice, even distribution of sauce, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over your prepared crust, leaving a small border for the crust. Layer generous slices of Brie cheese on top, allowing the creamy texture to meld into the warm toppings. Follow up with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of red onion to add a hint of spice. Step 5: Add Seasonings and Oil Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the layered pizza and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. These seasonings will elevate the overall flavor of your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza, giving it that extra touch of gourmet appeal. You’ll see the ingredients glisten, hinting at the deliciousness to come. Step 6: Bake the Pizza Carefully transfer your pizza to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; you’re looking for melted cheese that’s bubbling and a crust that’s turning golden brown. This visual cue is a sign that your pizza is ready to come out. Step 7: Cool and Garnish Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice. To finish, top your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza with fresh arugula or spinach, adding a lovely color and peppery flavor before serving. Step 8: Slice and Serve Using a sharp pizza cutter, slice your pizza into generous pieces. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavor combination that defines this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own! Expert Tips for Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Prep Ahead: Consider mixing the chicken and cranberry sauce the day before. This saves time and enhances flavors when assembling your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Crust Choice: For a gluten-free option, select a quality gluten-free pizza crust. Be sure to adjust baking time as needed to ensure it bakes thoroughly. Cheese Alternatives: If Brie isn’t available, creamy Camembert works wonderfully as a substitute. Remember, different cheeses can significantly change your pizza’s flavor. Don’t Overload: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, avoid overcrowding your pizza. This prevents sogginess and allows each flavor in the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza to shine. Seasoning Matters: Taste your chicken and cranberry mixture before spreading it on the crust. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure the flavor balances beautifully. Fresh Greens: Garnish with fresh arugula or spinach right before serving to maintain their vibrant color and crispness, elevating the overall presentation and taste. Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Variations Feel free to have fun and make this pizza your own with these delightful adjustments! Turkey Swap: Use shredded turkey instead of chicken for a delicious twist on holiday leftovers. It adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the cranberry. Cheese Change: Substitute Brie with creamy goat cheese for a tangy, robust flavor profile. It gives your pizza an earthy vibe that’s delightful! Nutty Texture: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top before baking for an added crunch. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. Sweet Touch: Add caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness that balances the tang of the cranberry. This added layer of flavor will make each bite a delight. Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for fresh rosemary or sage to enhance the cozy, aromatic elements of the pizza. Each herb brings its own unique flair to the dish. Heat It Up: If you’re craving a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes before baking. This adds the perfect kick to every slice! Fresh Greens: Mix arugula with some fresh basil for a vibrant topping that adds peppery notes and a hint of sweetness at the same time. It’s a fresh finish that brightens every bite! Saucy Alternative: Try using apple butter instead of cranberry sauce for a sweet, savory combination that wonderfully surprises the palate. You might just discover a new favorite! With these variations, you can create a fantastic array of flavors! For yet another tasty chicken meal, consider our Mango Chicken Stir recipe as a wonderful side option. What to Serve with Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the unique flavors of your pizza. Fresh Side Salad: A light mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette enhances flavors and balances the richness of the pizza. Creamy Potato Soup: This comforting soup adds warmth and creaminess to your meal, creating a perfect harmony with the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy and buttery, these breadsticks offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft textures of your pizza. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and tender-crisp texture introduce a lovely earthiness that rounds out the meal beautifully. Sparkling Cider: A refreshing bubbly drink brings a touch of celebration to your table, enhancing the sweet-sour notes of the cranberry sauce. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this creamy indulgence offers a rich finish that’s both luxurious and satisfying after the savory meal. Pairing these sides with your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza will create an unforgettable dining experience that delights the senses and warms the heart! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore its crispy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes, but be aware this may affect the crust’s crispness. Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and cranberry mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and cranberry sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent the chicken from drying out. The pizza crust can also be rolled out and stored on a baking sheet, lightly covered, in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply spread the prepared mixture on the crust, layer the Brie and mozzarella, and bake as directed for that delightful, freshly baked taste. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a scrumptious homemade pizza! Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe FAQs What type of cranberry sauce should I use? I recommend using whole-berry cranberry sauce for a delightful texture, but if you prefer, jellied sauce will work in a pinch. The added dimension of whole cranberries really makes the flavors pop! How should I store leftovers from my Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain that crispy crust. Can I freeze my Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza? Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, ensuring no air can enter. These slices can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating! What if my pizza crust turns out soggy? If your pizza crust is soggy, it’s often due to too many wet toppings or insufficient cooking time. To avoid this, make sure to spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly without overloading it, and ensure your oven is preheated properly. You can also bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings to help it firm up. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by opting for a gluten-free pizza crust. Additionally, Brie is generally safe for those who are lactose intolerant, but if there are any dairy allergies, you might want to substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Can I prepare the chicken and cranberry mixture in advance? Absolutely! You can mix your shredded chicken and cranberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time on busy days but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to assemble and bake it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza! Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza: A Festive Flavor Sensation Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is a quick and delicious way to use leftover holiday chicken, blending tangy cranberry sauce with rich Brie and tender chicken. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 290 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pizza Base1 unit Pizza Crust Use a pre-made crust for convenience or create your own.For the Toppings2 cups Shredded Chicken Leftover turkey can be used instead.1/2 cup Cranberry Sauce Whole-berry cranberry sauce is best.4 ounces Brie Cheese Camembert is a suitable substitute.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture mozzarella yields the best results.1/4 cup Red Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Brush onto the crust.1 teaspoon Thyme Feel free to add Italian herbs.to taste Saltto taste Pepper1 cup Fresh Arugula or Spinach Basil or mixed greens work well as substitutes. Equipment OvenBaking sheetpizza stone Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).Roll out your pizza crust onto a baking sheet or pizza stone, stretching it to your desired thickness. Lightly brush the crust with olive oil.In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with cranberry sauce until evenly coated.Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over your prepared crust. Layer slices of Brie cheese on top, followed by shredded mozzarella and red onion.Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with fresh arugula or spinach.Slice into generous pieces and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 560mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best flavor, consider mixing the chicken and cranberry sauce the day before. Adjust baking time for gluten-free crusts if used. 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