Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza?
It is a savory pizza that puts a twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu dish, featuring chicken, Canadian bacon, and a blend of cheeses on a crispy crust.
What kind of dough should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using one 10-ounce can of Pillsbury refrigerated pizza dough for convenience.
What is the base sauce for this pizza?
Instead of traditional tomato sauce, this pizza uses 1/3 cup of garlic-flavored ranch salad dressing as the base.
What types of cheese are used in this pizza?
This recipe uses a combination of shredded smoked provolone cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
How much chicken is required?
You will need 4 ounces of refrigerated roasted chicken breast strips.
What meat toppings are included besides chicken?
The pizza is topped with 2 ounces of halved Canadian bacon and 2 tablespoons of crispy cooked bacon pieces.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking the pizza.
How long does the pizza need to bake?
The pizza should bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
What size pizza pan is recommended?
A 12-inch pizza pan is ideal for this recipe.
Should I grease the pizza pan?
Yes, lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the dough from sticking.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chopped tomatoes as one of the fresh toppings.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This Gourmet Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
What is the first step in preparing the dough?
Unroll the dough onto the prepared pan and press it from the center outwards to cover the bottom and edges evenly.
How should the green onions be prepared?
The recipe calls for 4 green onions to be sliced before being added as a topping.
What is the recommended layering order for toppings?
After the dressing and provolone, layer the chicken, Canadian bacon, bacon pieces, green onions, and tomatoes, then top with mozzarella.
Can I use leftovers for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover roasted chicken or extra bacon you may have in the fridge.
Is the Canadian bacon cooked before adding it to the pizza?
The Canadian bacon should be sliced and halved; it will heat through and crisp slightly during the 18-22 minute bake time.
Can I substitute the garlic ranch dressing?
While garlic ranch provides the signature flavor, you could use plain ranch with a pinch of garlic powder or a light alfredo sauce as a substitute.
How do I know when the pizza is perfectly cooked?
The pizza is done when the crust turns a deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned on top.
Should the pizza be sliced immediately after baking?
It is best to let the pizza cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the cheese to set before cutting into wedges.
What makes this pizza 'Gourmet'?
The use of smoked provolone, garlic ranch, and the combination of two types of bacon and roasted chicken elevates it beyond standard pizza.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken breast, sliced into strips.
Is this recipe suitable for family dinners?
Absolutely, it is designed as an easy and impressive meal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
What kind of provolone is best?
The recipe specifies smoked provolone cheese to add a rich, deep flavor to the pizza.
How much mozzarella cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 4 ounces (about 1 cup) of shredded mozzarella cheese for the final top layer.
Can I add more vegetables to this pizza?
While the recipe focuses on the Cordon Bleu flavors, you can certainly add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers if desired.
Is the bacon pieces preparation specific?
Yes, the 2 tablespoons of bacon pieces should be cooked until crispy before being added to the pizza.
How do I prepare the Canadian bacon?
Simply take 2 ounces of Canadian bacon, slice it, and then cut the slices into halves.
What is the texture of the crust?
When baked at 425°F, the refrigerated dough creates a crispy crust that supports the heavy gourmet toppings.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prep the toppings in advance, but for the best texture, it is recommended to assemble and bake the pizza just before serving.