Garlic Chicken Pizza Recipe Papa Murphy’s: Homemade Copycat Magic

I’ve re-created that take-and-bake magic at home with a copycat version that rivals the original. The garlic chicken topping gets its bold flavor from fresh garlic and a simple seasoning blend, not a long list of mysteries.

This homemade pizza starts with a no-fuss dough that bakes up crisp yet chewy. A quick garlic butter brush on the crust before baking adds the signature aroma and taste you expect.

Topped with tender chicken, melted cheese, and a final sprinkle of fresh parsley, it delivers the same satisfaction without the drive-thru. The result is a restaurant-quality pie ready in your own oven.

Serve it straight from the pan and watch it disappear. This recipe makes weeknight dinner feel like a special treat.

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Pizza Recipe Papa Murphy’s

Simple, flavorful ingredients for that take-and-bake magic at home.

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The chicken is key here. Boneless breasts stay tender—avoid thighs as they can get chewy. Most grocery stores carry pre-cut pieces in the meat section, which saves time. The dough can be store-bought (I like Pillsbury for convenience) or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious. For the garlic, fresh cloves are non-negotiable—jarred minced just doesn’t have the same punch.

No mozzarella? Provolone or Monterey Jack melt just as well. Short on Parmesan? Pecorino Romano adds a sharper kick. If you don’t have garlic powder, granulated garlic works at the same amount. The pizza sauce can be swapped with marinara in a pinch (just drain it well so your crust stays crisp).

Dough keeps in the fridge for 2-3 days if wrapped tight. Cooked chicken stays fresh for 3-4 days—perfect for prepping ahead. The garlic butter can be made a day in advance and reheated gently before brushing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Chicken Pizza

Here’s my tested method to recreate that Papa Murphy’s magic right in your kitchen.

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut the boneless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. I like to trim off any excess fat first—this prevents the chicken from steaming instead of browning nicely.

In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This seasoning blend gives the chicken that signature savory kick that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter topping.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Until Golden

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan or it won’t brown properly.

Cook for 5-6 minutes without stirring so the chicken develops a golden crust on one side. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown on all sides. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter and Assemble the Pizza

While the chicken cooks, melt the 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned—this keeps the garlic flavor sweet and aromatic.

Preheat your oven to 475°F. Roll out the 1 lb pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Spread ¾ cup pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border for the crust. Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake to Perfection

Scatter the cooked chicken evenly over the cheese. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the top, letting it soak into the cheese and dough. Sprinkle with ¼ cup parmesan cheese for that extra umami depth.

Bake on the lowest oven rack for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown in spots. Keep an eye on it—ovens vary, and you want that perfect balance of crispy crust and melted cheese.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Slice and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the crust is crisp.

This is where the magic happens—the garlic butter soaks into every bite, and the cheeses create that perfect stretchy, cheesy pull you expect from a Papa Murphy’s-style pizza.

Health Benefits of This garlic chicken pizza recipe papa murphys

Protein Powerhouse

This dish delivers a solid 40g of protein per serving from the chicken alone, helping build and repair muscles. The mozzarella and cheddar add another 15g, making it a filling meal that keeps you satisfied for hours. I find this especially helpful on busy weeknights. 💪

Calcium Boost

The 3 cups of cheese provide nearly 80% of your daily calcium needs, crucial for bone health. Parmesan alone contributes significant calcium, while mozzarella adds a good dose of phosphorus, which works with calcium to strengthen bones.

Heart-Healthy Fats

While pizza isn’t typically a health food, the olive oil and garlic in this recipe offer heart benefits. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health, and garlic has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.

Vitamin Rich

The fresh parsley garnish isn’t just for color—it packs vitamin K and vitamin C. Chicken breast provides B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, which are essential for energy metabolism. I always feel better when I include these fresh elements. 🌱

Energy Support

The combination of complex carbs from the crust and protein from chicken and cheese creates sustained energy. This balance helps prevent blood sugar spikes, keeping you energized longer than typical fast-food options.

Antioxidant Properties

Garlic contains allicin, a compound with antioxidant properties that may help combat oxidative stress. The oregano in the seasoning blend also provides antioxidants, adding another layer of health benefits to this comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions