As I stood in my kitchen, an intriguing aroma wafted through the air, pulling me back to countless holiday dinners spent with loved ones. That’s when the idea struck: why not combine the sweet, tangy flavors of leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into something new and delicious? Enter the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. In just 25 minutes, you can transform those holiday leftovers into a quick, savory dinner that feels special yet satisfyingly casual. Not only is this pizza a fantastic way to use up the remnants of your festive feasting, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love. Ready to take your pizza game to the next level with this unique twist? Let’s dive in! Why is this pizza a must-try? Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, perfect for weeknight dinners. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberry sauce and rich Brie cheese creates a delightful balance that will keep you coming back for more. Creative Use of Leftovers: No need to let those holiday leftovers go to waste; transform them into a mouthwatering pizza that tastes gourmet! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy each slice, making it a fantastic option for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adjust toppings or try alternatives like adding fresh spinach or replacing Brie with goat cheese for a fun twist. This pizza is not only a meal but a new way to enjoy familiar flavors! Why not try pairing it with a refreshing side salad, like my Grilled Chicken Broccoli, for a complete dinner? Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Ingredients • Perfect for quick, flavorful meals! For the Crust Pizza Crust – Choose pre-made for convenience or whip up a quick homemade version for freshness. For the Pizza Toppings Shredded Chicken – This provides the main protein; leftover turkey is a delicious substitute! Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet-tangy punch; whole-berry sauce elevates the texture! Brie Cheese – Offers creamy richness; swap with tangy Camembert if desired. Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for that gooey melt that makes each slice irresistible. Red Onion – Adds a crunchy kick; try caramelizing for a sweeter flavor. Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and crisps the crust; opt for extra virgin for the best quality. Thyme (fresh/dried) – Brings aromatic herbal notes; oregano works well as a substitute. Salt & Pepper – Critical for enhancing all the flavors; season to your taste. Fresh Arugula or Spinach – Provides a peppery freshness, balancing the pizza’s richness. Each ingredient works harmoniously to create a wonderful experience with this Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza, allowing you to savor flavors that remind you of home-cooked comfort! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a perfectly crispy crust and gooey melted cheese. Allow the oven to reach this temperature while you prepare the crust and toppings, ensuring everything is ready to go once the assembly begins. Step 2: Prepare Crust Roll out your pre-made pizza crust onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a rolling pin to create an even thickness, about ¼-inch. Drizzle a light coat of olive oil over the surface to enhance flavor and promote a golden, crispy texture during baking. Step 3: Mix Chicken and Sauce In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with cranberry sauce, mixing well until the chicken is evenly coated. This blend of savory chicken and sweet cranberry will be the star of your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you assemble the pizza. Step 4: Assemble Pizza Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over the prepared crust, making sure to cover it almost to the edges. Layer slices of creamy Brie cheese atop the chicken, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella for that signature meltiness. Add thinly sliced red onion for a touch of crunch and sweetness. Step 5: Season and Bake Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the assembled pizza and lightly sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it to achieve a perfect crust without burning. Step 6: Add Fresh Greens Once the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This will make slicing easier. Top the warm pizza with fresh arugula or spinach for a vibrant, peppery finish that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce before slicing and serving. Make Ahead Options Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cranberry-chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the shredded chicken with the cranberry sauce and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll out the pizza crust, brush it with olive oil, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake. When it’s time to serve, layer the mixture over the crust, add the cheeses and onion, then bake as instructed. This method ensures your pizza remains just as delicious and fresh while making dinner a breeze! Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful pizza to match your tastes! Cheese Alternatives: Swap Brie for goat cheese for a tangy twist. The creaminess will transform into a flavor explosion! Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. These ingredients will enhance the pizza’s depth and texture. Spicy Kick: Include jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. The spice will create a delicious balance to the sweet cranberry sauce. Sauce Variations: Replace the cranberry sauce with BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor profile. It’s a fun way to reinvent this pizza into something completely different! Herb Changes: Use fresh basil instead of thyme for a lovely aromatic touch. The basil’s freshness elevates the pizza in a whole new way. Crust Variation: Try using a cauliflower pizza crust for a gluten-free option that adds a unique flavor and texture. You’ll be surprised how well it pairs with the other toppings! Fruit Addition: Add thinly sliced pears or apples for a sweet and sophisticated flair. The fruity touch elevates each bite into a delightful experience. Top with Nuts: Scatter walnuts or pecans over the fresh greens for a satisfying crunch. It adds an extra layer of texture that takes this pizza to a gourmet level. These variations are perfect for exploring different flavors and ensuring each pizza experience is special. For more creative dinner ideas, check out my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet and Bbq Chicken Skewer recipes for inspiration! What to Serve with Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Elevate your meal with complementary sides and drinks that enhance the delightful flavors of your pizza. Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the pizza. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for extra color and nutrition. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes roasted to perfection bring a hearty, earthy note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cranberry sauce. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks are a comforting side that invite you to dip into any leftover cranberry sauce. The softness pairs perfectly with the crunchy pizza crust, creating a feel-good meal. Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: The sweet and tangy carrots complement both the savory chicken and the richness of the Brie cheese, adding a gourmet touch that doesn’t take much time to prepare. Cranberry Mimosa: For a festive drink, combine cranberry juice with sparkling wine. The flavors echo the pizza while adding a bubbly, refreshing quality that makes your meal feel extra special. Apple Crisp: As a sweet finale, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream brings a cozy, comforting end to this delightful meal, reminiscent of holiday gatherings and sweet memories. Expert Tips for Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh, high-quality Brie and greens for the best texture and flavor in your Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza. Monitor the Oven: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the pizza to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a tough crust and burnt toppings. Pre-Mix for Ease: Prepare the cranberry-chicken mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Assemble your pizza just before baking for maximum freshness. Explore Gluten-Free Options: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the pizza crust with a gluten-free alternative available at most grocery stores. Don’t Skip the Oil: Brushing olive oil on the crust enhances flavor and ensures a golden, crispy finish. How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Room Temperature: Allow leftover pizza to cool completely, then store it in a covered container for up to 2 hours. If not eaten, refrigerate promptly. Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container; it can last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy again without losing flavor. Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for long-term storage. Frozen pizza can last up to 2 months, maintaining its deliciousness for future meals. Reheating: For the best results, reheat the Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza Recipe FAQs What type of pizza crust should I use? You can choose either pre-made pizza crust for convenience or make your own for a fresh touch. I often use a whole wheat crust for added nutrition, but any crust that you enjoy works beautifully! How should I store leftover Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza? Store any uneaten pizza in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing for the best preservation. Can I freeze Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This method keeps the pizza delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. What can I do if my pizza crust is soggy? A soggy crust often results from too much moisture in the toppings. To avoid this, ensure your shredded chicken is drained well, and use whole-berry cranberry sauce for texture. If your crust is soggy, try baking the pizza a few minutes longer to allow more moisture to evaporate and achieve that golden crispiness. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! If you have guests with dairy allergies, you can substitute Brie cheese with a dairy-free alternative or even goat cheese. For gluten-free options, simply swap in a gluten-free pizza crust readily available in stores. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients align with dietary restrictions for your loved ones! How ripe should the cheese be for optimal flavor? For the best taste, use cheese that is fresh but not overly ripe. A fresh Brie should have a slight give when pressed but should not be overly soft or runny. This ensures a creamy texture without overwhelming the pizza. If you’re using leftover cheese, give it a quick sniff—if it smells off or has dark spots, it’s best to discard it. Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza: Quick Flavorful Comfort This Cranberry Chicken & Brie Pizza transforms holiday leftovers into a quick, savory dinner that’s both casual and special. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 2 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the CrustPizza Crust Choose pre-made for convenience or homemade for freshness.For the Pizza Toppings2 cups Shredded Chicken Leftover turkey is a delicious substitute.1 cup Cranberry Sauce Whole-berry sauce elevates the texture.8 oz Brie Cheese Swap with tangy Camembert if desired.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Essential for that gooey melt.1/2 small Red Onion Try caramelizing for a sweeter flavor.2 Tbsp Olive Oil Opt for extra virgin for the best quality.1 tsp Thyme (fresh/dried) Oregano works well as a substitute.to taste Salt & Pepper Critical for enhancing all the flavors.1 cup Fresh Arugula or Spinach Provides a peppery freshness. Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment PaperRolling PinMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).Roll out your pre-made pizza crust onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a light coat of olive oil over the surface.In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with cranberry sauce, mixing well until evenly coated.Spread the cranberry-chicken mixture evenly over the prepared crust, then layer slices of Brie and sprinkle mozzarella.Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Bake for 12-15 minutes until melted and golden.Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, then top with fresh arugula or spinach before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 6mg NotesThis recipe creatively uses holiday leftovers providing a unique twist that's sure to please. Adjust toppings based on personal preference for flavor variety! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
