Mediterranean Cranberry Chicken Brie Pizza
This Mediterranean-inspired Cranberry Chicken Brie Pizza is sweet, savory, and creamy all at once. The tangy cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, while melted Brie gives it a rich, indulgent flavor. A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme ties the flavors together, and optional greens or nuts add freshness and crunch. It’s a festive yet easy dish that works just as well for a cozy dinner as it does for a holiday gathering.
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Ingredients
Pizza Base:
1 prepared pizza dough or crust (homemade or store-bought), about 12 inches
1–2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing crust)
Toppings:
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
½ cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or smooth)
4–8 oz Brie cheese, sliced or chopped
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (for garnish or flavor in sauce)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Arugula or baby greens (optional, for topping after baking)
Mediterranean-Style Additions (Optional):
1 clove garlic, minced (mixed into chicken or sauce)
Dried oregano or other Mediterranean herbs (sprinkled over chicken or sauce)
2 tbsp toasted walnuts or pecans (for crunch)
Extra arugula or fresh spinach for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Oven & Dough:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
If using raw pizza dough, roll or stretch it out to a 12-inch circle and place on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush lightly with olive oil.
Assemble the Base:
Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the pizza crust as the base “sauce.”
Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional dried oregano.
Add Toppings:
Evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the cranberry layer.
Add sliced Brie pieces, tucking them between the chicken for even melting.
Sprinkle mozzarella on top (if using).
Add thin slices of red onion and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme.
Bake the Pizza:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Finish & Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes.
Top with fresh arugula or spinach and toasted nuts (if using).
Slice and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Options: Brie is creamy and rich, but you can mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangier Mediterranean edge.
Cranberry Sauce Swap: If you don’t have cranberry sauce, try pomegranate molasses or a fig spread for a similar sweet-tart flavor.
Greens: Arugula adds a peppery bite, but baby spinach or fresh basil leaves also work well.
Nutty Crunch: Toasted walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios bring a great texture contrast.
Herb Choices: Fresh rosemary is classic, but thyme, oregano, or a sprinkle of za’atar gives a Mediterranean twist.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and bulk up with roasted vegetables like butternut squash, zucchini, or eggplant.
Extra Flavor: Drizzle with a touch of honey or balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet-savory finish.
Mini Versions: Use flatbreads, pitas, or naan to make individual pizzas for parties or appetizers.
Q&A
Q: Can I use leftover chicken or turkey for this pizza?
A: Absolutely—this recipe is a great way to use up leftovers from roasted chicken or holiday turkey.
Q: Do I need to use Brie, or can I substitute it?
A: Brie gives the pizza a creamy, rich flavor, but you can swap with goat cheese, feta, or even mozzarella for a different taste.
Q: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
A: You can prep the toppings in advance, but for the best texture, assemble and bake just before serving.
Q: Is cranberry sauce too sweet for a savory pizza?
A: Not at all. The sweetness balances the savory chicken and salty cheese, much like how figs or caramelized onions do in Mediterranean cooking.
Q: What kind of crust works best?
A: A thin, crispy crust balances the rich toppings, but you can also use flatbread, pita, or naan for a quick version.
Nutrition
(per slice, 8 slices, using chicken, Brie, cranberry sauce, and mozzarella)
Calories: 240–280
Protein: 13–15 g
Carbohydrates: 22–25 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Sugars: 5–7 g
Fat: 11–14 g
Saturated Fat: 5–7 g
Sodium: 350–420 mg
(Values vary depending on cheese amounts, crust type, and optional toppings.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Cranberry Chicken Brie Pizza is a creative balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The cranberry sauce acts as a vibrant base, the chicken adds protein, and Brie melts into rich pockets of indulgence. Topped with fresh herbs, arugula, or nuts, this pizza is both elegant and comforting—perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or when you want something a little different from the usual pizza night. It’s a dish that bridges Mediterranean brightness with festive flair.