Thin pizza crusts are so popular these days. So what better thing to use for ease and to make it healthier than whole grain or whole wheat tortilla for the crust! This pizza makes such an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love. Serve with a salad and you’re all set. Each yummy pizza has 330 calories and 7 grams of fat. Each pizza has 6 grams of fiber!
Why You'll Love My BBQ Chicken Tortilla Crust Pizza
Craving a delicious BBQ chicken pizza without the guilt? My Tortilla Crust Pizza recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful alternative to traditional pizza. This innovative twist on a classic dish features a whole-wheat tortilla crust, lean chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a convenient and portable package. Enjoy the same great taste with fewer calories and fat, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious pizza lovers.
A Deeper Dive into the Ingredients for My BBQ Chicken Tortilla Crust Pizza
Base:
Whole-grain flour tortillas: A healthier alternative to traditional pizza crust, providing fiber, complex carbohydrates, and a satisfying texture. Whole-grain tortillas offer a nutritious base for this pizza, contributing to a more balanced meal. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthier choice compared to refined flour tortillas.
Protein:
Chicken: A lean protein source that adds a savory and satisfying flavor to the pizza. Using cooked chicken saves time and ensures a tender and flavorful topping. Chicken is a versatile protein that can be easily incorporated into various dishes, and it is a good source of essential amino acids.
Sauce:
Barbecue sauce: The star of the show, providing a smoky and sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients. Barbecue sauce is typically made from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, spices, and sometimes molasses. The specific flavor profile of barbecue sauce can vary depending on the brand and regional variations.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that balances the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. Balsamic vinegar is a concentrated grape must that is aged in wooden barrels, giving it a rich and complex flavor. It is often used as a finishing touch to dishes, adding a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Vegetables:
Onions: Provide a sweet and savory flavor, adding depth and complexity to the pizza. Onions are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.
Cherry or grape tomatoes: Offer a burst of juicy sweetness and a slightly acidic flavor. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also a low-calorie and low-fat food that can be easily incorporated into various dishes.
Cheese:
Mozzarella: A classic pizza cheese that melts well and provides a creamy texture. Light mozzarella is a lower-fat option that allows you to enjoy the cheesy goodness without adding excessive calories. It is a good source of protein and calcium.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor, providing a finishing touch to the pizza. Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese that is often grated and used as a topping or seasoning. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin A.
By understanding the role of each ingredient, you can appreciate the complex flavors and nutritional benefits of this BBQ Chicken Pizza on a Tortilla Crust recipe. This pizza offers a delicious and satisfying meal that is packed with flavor and nutrition. It is a great option for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, as it is lower in calories and fat while still providing a satisfying and flavorful experience.
How to Make My BBQ Chicken Pizza with Tortilla Crust
This innovative recipe offers a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional pizza, all while being healthier and lower in calories. The combination of whole-grain tortillas, lean chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce creates a truly enjoyable culinary experience.Ingredients:
Base: Whole-grain flour tortillas
Protein: Chicken
Sauce: Barbecue sauce, balsamic vinegar
Vegetables: Onions, cherry or grape tomatoes
Cheese: Light mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Toast the tortillas: Broil the whole-grain flour tortillas for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. This step adds a crispy texture to the base of the pizza.
Prepare the onions: Microwave the sliced onions for 2 minutes to soften them. This saves time and ensures that the onions are cooked before adding them to the pizza.
Marinate the chicken: Toss the diced chicken with barbecue sauce and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. This step marinates the chicken and adds extra flavor to the pizza.
Assemble the pizza: Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on each tortilla using the back of a spoon. Top with half of the marinated chicken, onions, cherry or grape tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients for the second pizza.
Broil the pizza: Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the pizzas to prevent them from burning.
Serve: Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy immediately, pulling apart the tortillas with your hands or using a fork and knife.
Tips:
Customize: Feel free to add other toppings to your pizza, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Spice it up: For a spicier pizza, add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder to the barbecue sauce.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the pizza ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits:This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, with a focus on whole-grain ingredients, lean protein, and reduced-fat cheese. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.Beyond the Recipe:This BBQ Chicken Pizza is more than just a meal; it's a culinary adventure. The combination of flavors, textures, and the convenience of a tortilla-based pizza make it a truly enjoyable experience.Additional Insights:
Tortilla Options: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortillas.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your favorite flavor.
Vegetable Options: Customize the pizza with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Dietary Restrictions: This recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions. For example, use vegan cheese and a plant-based protein source for a vegan option.
By understanding the role of each ingredient and incorporating these additional insights, you can fully appreciate the deliciousness and nutritional value of my healthy version of a BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe. Enjoy this satisfying and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Helpful Tips About this Recipe
Makes 2 tortilla pizzas (this recipe can easily double, tripled, and so on) Shopping Tips I used Trader Joe’s whole grain flour tortillas. They are terrific. Each has 120 calories, 2.5g fat, and 4 grams of fiber. Most supermarkets sell whole grain flour or whole wheat flour tortillas.I also used the lite mozzarella cheese at Trader Joe’s. Serving Tips Sometimes I like to top this pizza with a garden salad tossed in my skinny ranch dressing. It tastes really yummy this way. The barbecue sauce on the pizza and the ranch dressing on the salad makes for a winning combination!WW Freestyle SmartPoints 8-Blue WW SmartPoints 9-Green
2 whole-grain flour tortillas or whole wheat, see shopping tips
1 cup onions, thinly sliced
⅔ cup chicken, cooked and diced into small pieces
¼ cup barbecue sauce, I like Sweet Baby Rays or Bull’s Eye
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
½ cupcherry or grape tomatoes, sliced
6 tablespoons light mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Place tortillas under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes to toast, turn over and broil 1 more minute to toast other sides. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. Remove from oven and set aside.
Place sliced onions on a microwave-safe plate and cook in microwave for 2 minutes, to soften.
Add chicken to a small bowl. Toss with 3 tablespoons barbecue sauce and balsamic vinegar.
To Assemble Pizza: Spread each tortilla with ½ tablespoon barbecue sauce. Use the back of a spoon to spread. Top each with ½ of chicken/barbecue sauce mixture and spread around. Place ½ of the onions all over the top of each pizza. Sprinkle each with ¼ cup tomatoes. Finally, top each with 3 tablespoons of light mozzarella cheese and ½ tablespoon Parmesan cheese.
Place on a baking sheet and broil for about 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and tortilla is browned. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Remove from oven. Place each on a dinner plate. Pull apart with your hands into pieces to eat or serve with a fork and sharp knife, if desired.
