Making your own pizza from scratch gives you total control over every single element, from the thickness and chew of the dough to the quality of the cheese and the freshness of the toppings. 

While takeout is always an option, knowing how to make pizza at home elevates a casual meal into a culinary project.

Ingredients for the dough

• Flour
• Yeast
• Salt
• A pinch of sugar
• Warm water (105°F–115°F)
• A splash of olive oil

For the pizza & toppings

• Pizza sauce (crushed tomatoes or diluted tomato paste)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Seasoned, cooked chicken pieces
• Vegetables (sliced onions, peppers, etc.)
• Optional: Fresh herbs or hot honey for garnish

Instructions 

• In a large bowl, mix your flour, instant yeast, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Pour in your warm water (105°F–115°F) and a splash of olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a clean, floured surface. Knead firmly for 5 to 10 minutes until the surface is smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
• Roll out your proofed pizza dough on a well-floured surface to your desired thickness, keeping the edges slightly thicker to form a nice crust.
• Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza peel. Spread an even layer of your chosen sauce across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Scatter a generous handful of freshly shredded cheese over the sauce, followed by your seasoned, cooked chicken pieces and any additional vegetables like sliced onions or peppers.
• Bake in a preheated oven at the highest temperature possible, typically 250°C (480°F), for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly browned in spots.
• Allow the pizza to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing to let the cheese set, then garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot honey before serving hot.