There’s something so satisfying about transforming leftover bits and pieces from the fridge into a delicious meal that the whole family will love. When I stumbled upon my stash of sourdough discard, I knew I had to whip up something special. Enter my Crispy Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potatoes—a dish that's not just quick and easy, but also a fantastic way to elevate those humble scraps into a comforting dinner.
The magic begins when the rich, tangy sourdough base meets the savory sweetness of barbecue chicken, nestled under a blanket of gooey mozzarella and caramelized sweet potatoes. Whether you’re juggling a hectic weeknight or simply craving something homemade that steps away from the monotony of fast food, this pizza is your answer. It’s customizable, family-friendly, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect go-to for any occasion. So, let's dive into this delightful recipe and reduce food waste while enjoying a slice that truly satisfies!
Why is Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza a must-try?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of barbecue chicken, sweet potatoes, and gooey mozzarella brings cozy vibes to every bite.
Versatile Options: Customize it with whatever leftover veggies or proteins you have on hand for a unique twist each time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for families, this pizza will leave everyone asking for seconds, turning mealtime into a delicious occasion!
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for those last-minute dinner decisions.
Elevate your next family meal with this Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza and transform leftovers into something extraordinary.
Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza Ingredients
• Gather your essentials for a scrumptiously quick meal!
For the Crust
- Sourdough Discard – A flavorful base for the pizza crust; feel free to use an active sourdough starter if you don't have discard.
- Olive Oil – Helps prevent sticking and enhances taste; you can substitute with any neutral oil you prefer.
For the Toppings
- Barbecue Sauce – Provides a delicious sweetness and tang; consider using pizza sauce or homemade options to vary the flavor.
- Shredded Chicken – Offers protein to the dish; switch it out for beef, pork, or plant-based proteins as desired.
- Sweet Potato – Adds a lovely natural sweetness; swap in other cooked veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds creaminess; try cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a different taste.
- Spring Onions (Optional) – Freshly chopped for a zesty finishing touch; can be replaced with green onions or chives if you wish.
Transforming these ingredients into a Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza will create a comforting meal the whole family will adore!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
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Preheat your skillet: Begin by placing your cast iron skillet on high heat or preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) for a few minutes. A hot surface is key to achieving that perfect crispy crust!
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Add oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the hot skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. This will help prevent sticking and add extra flavor to your crust.
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Mix the crust: Pour the sourdough discard into the skillet, spreading it into a thin, even layer that climbs slightly up the sides. Get creative—this crust will be the vessel for delicious toppings!
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Cook the base: Let the crust cook for about 2 minutes, until it sets and is easy to lift from the skillet. If it seems a bit sticky, give it an additional 30 seconds to firm up.
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Transfer the crust: Carefully move the cooked crust onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step ensures easy handling and helps with clean-up later on.
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Top with flavor: Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the crust, followed by an even distribution of shredded chicken, sweet potatoes, and a generous handful of mozzarella cheese.
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Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven set to 425°F (220°C) and bake for around 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is beautifully melted and the edges are golden.
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Serve hot: Slice your pizza into portions and enjoy it immediately for the best texture and flavor. Gather your family around and watch those smiles!
Optional: Garnish with fresh spring onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your skillet is fully preheated to achieve that ideal crispy crust; a cold skillet leads to a soggy base.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh barbecue sauce and quality cheeses to maximize flavor in your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to mix and match toppings using your leftover ingredients, but avoid overly watery vegetables that can make the crust soggy.
- Check Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pizza while baking to get the cheese just right; overcooking can lead to a dried-out topping.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container and eat within 3 days for the best flavor; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Sourdough Discard Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe and explore delightful twists that enhance the flavors!
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a creamy topping without dairy. It offers a delicious, plant-based alternative!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the sourdough discard with a gluten-free pizza crust or use almond flour mixed with a bit of baking powder for a fluffy base. Both options ensure everyone can enjoy a slice!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes on top for a zesty heat that brings excitement to your pizza. This little twist can make a big difference!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into your crust for an aromatic undertone that elevates the pizza’s flavor profile. A simple step can add a touch of elegance!
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Mixed Veggie Medley: Replace the sweet potatoes with a mix of roasted seasonal veggies for added color and nutrients, making every bite a surprise. It’s a fantastic way to use up your greens!
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BBQ Sauce Swap: Switch out barbecue sauce for a tangy buffalo sauce if you like things on the fiery side. It’s perfect for those who crave a little extra flavor!
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Italian Style: Top with fresh mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil for a Margherita-inspired pizza that remains comforting yet classic. This twist never goes out of style!
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Breakfast Twist: Transform leftovers into a breakfast-style pizza by adding scrambled eggs and avocado slices for a hearty morning meal. Who says pizza can’t be enjoyed at breakfast?
What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delicious pizza with sides that perfectly complement its rich flavors and textures.
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Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds refreshing contrast to the savory pizza.
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Homemade Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw, packed with crunch and tang, balances the pizza's richness beautifully and brings a playful crunch.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic and herbs provide a delightful side for mopping up any extra barbecue sauce.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add vibrant color and a touch of sweetness that echoes the sweet potato.
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Creamy Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these wedges deliver comfort and warmth while enhancing the pizza's flavors.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness and complements the barbecue notes, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that contrast perfectly with the savory pizza.
Enjoy mixing and matching these delightful options to create a well-rounded meal your family will remember!
Storage Tips for Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
- Fridge: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza fresh and ready for a quick bite!
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps restore the crust's crispiness while warming the toppings thoroughly.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving pizza out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it remains safe to eat.
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust using the sourdough discard up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it in the skillet, allowing it to cool, and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Additionally, you can pre-chop the sweet potatoes and shred the chicken, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture, keep everything covered, and assemble the pizza just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer your toppings on the chilled crust and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10 minutes for easy, delicious results on busy weeknights!
Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough discard should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any sourdough discard you have on hand, as long as it’s still fresh. If you don’t have discard, an active sourdough starter works just as well. The key is making sure it's at a similar consistency to sourdough discard for the crust to hold together properly.
How should I store the leftover pizza?
You can easily store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it even longer, I recommend freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat straight from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will help restore that delicious crispiness!
Can I substitute sweet potatoes with other vegetables?
Very! If you're not a fan of sweet potatoes, feel free to swap them out with other cooked veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Just ensure that the veggies you choose aren’t too watery, which could make the crust soggy. Roasting your veggies beforehand can help enhance their flavor and texture, making your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza even more delicious.
What to do if my crust sticks to the skillet?
If your crust sticks to the skillet, don't panic! This can happen if the skillet isn't hot enough or if there isn’t enough oil. Next time, make sure to preheat your skillet properly and coat it with enough oil to prevent sticking. If you find it sticking while cooking, you can gently run a spatula around the edges; if it still resists, try cooking it a little longer—30 more seconds can make all the difference.
Is this pizza a good option for special diets?
Absolutely! This Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza is quite adaptable. For gluten-free options, you can try using gluten-free sourdough discard or a gluten-free pizza dough. If anyone has dairy allergies, you can easily make it dairy-free by substituting mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative. Lastly, you can mix and match proteins to accommodate various dietary preferences, such as using shredded beef or a plant-based alternative to shredded chicken. Adjusting toppings is key!
How long will the pizza stay fresh?
For the best taste, enjoy your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza fresh within 3 days if refrigerated. Remember, you can always freeze any leftover slices for a quick, delicious meal later on. Just reheat from frozen for a convenient and satisfying dinner!
Irresistibly Easy Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your skillet by placing it on high heat or preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the hot skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.
- Pour the sourdough discard into the skillet, spreading it into a thin, even layer.
- Let the crust cook for about 2 minutes until it sets and is easy to lift.
- Carefully move the cooked crust onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the crust, followed by shredded chicken, sweet potatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven set to 425°F (220°C) and bake for around 10 minutes.
- Slice your pizza into portions and enjoy it immediately for the best texture and flavor.
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