There’s something truly special about the sensation of biting into a warm slice of pizza, especially when it's made with leftover sourdough discard. I recently found myself with a hefty scoop of sourdough starter that needed rescuing, and that’s when the idea for this Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potato was born. Picture this: a crispy crust served straight from the skillet, adorned with savory barbecue chicken and the unexpected sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
After a long week of takeout and convenience meals, this delightful pizza became my go-to comfort food. Not only is it a breeze to whip up—no kneading or rising required—but it’s also a customizable canvas for whatever toppings you have on hand. Whether you're a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, this dish transforms leftover sourdough into a delightful family-friendly feast. Join me in bringing homemade goodness back to our kitchen with this easy and delightful recipe!
Why love Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza?
Easy Preparation: Skip the kneading and rising time! Your pizza is ready in no time, thanks to the sourdough discard.
Flavor Explosion: The rich barbecue chicken combined with sweet potatoes creates an unexpected and delightful taste.
Customizable: Use any leftovers or favorite toppings; this recipe encourages your creativity!
Family-Friendly: Perfect for all ages, it transforms a common weeknight meal into a special treat.
Nutritional Boost: Sweet potatoes add vitamins, while the pizza retains a satisfying crunch!
For more great quick meal ideas, explore our other delicious options!
Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
• Sourdough Discard – This is the star ingredient that forms the crispy, flavorful base of your pizza.
• Olive Oil – A must for preventing sticking and adding a touch of richness to the crust.
For the Toppings
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds moisture and a burst of flavor, balancing perfectly with the sweet toppings.
• Shredded Chicken – A hearty protein choice; feel free to swap it for roasted veggies or pulled pork for a different twist.
• Sweet Potato (Cubed, Cooked) – Offers a sweet contrast and rich nutrients; other cooked vegetables can easily take their place.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Delivers that gooey, melty goodness; consider smoked gouda, cheddar, or parmesan for variation.
• Spring Onions (Optional) – Brings a fresh, crunchy element if you have them on hand!
Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings on this Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza to make it uniquely yours!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
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Preheat your cast iron skillet either on high heat or in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy crust!
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Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. This helps prevent the pizza from sticking and adds a delicious richness.
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Pour in your sourdough discard, spreading it into a thin and even layer, making sure it climbs slightly up the sides of the skillet. This will create a lovely golden crust.
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Cook for about 2 minutes, watching for the base to set and lift easily. You want it to be just firm enough that you can handle it.
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Transfer the crust to a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will make it easier to add your toppings and get it back in the oven.
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Spread a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the pizza base. Then, add the shredded chicken, sweet potatoes, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top.
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Bake in your preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the pizza are crispy and inviting.
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Serve hot straight from the oven, relishing that delightful blend of flavors and textures for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with fresh spring onions for an added burst of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep the pizza out for up to 2 hours before needing to store it.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it's cooled to room temperature before sealing to preserve texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze leftover slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in an airtight bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive the crust’s crispiness for a delicious bite!
What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potato?
Nothing elevates a cozy pizza night like perfectly paired sides that complement its delicious flavors!
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh blend of greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the hearty pizza and balances the rich barbecue sauce.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread pairs beautifully with pizza, perfect for savoring every last bit of barbecue sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted seasonal veggies for an earthy touch, enhancing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes already on the pizza.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden, crunchy potato wedges with a sprinkle of herbs give that satisfying crunch, making the meal feel indulgent and comforting.
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Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy slaw can brighten up your plate, providing a fresh contrast that cuts through the pizza's richness while adding vibrant colors.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: Fresh and fizzy, this drink refreshes your palate and complements the meal perfectly, making every bite even more enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza
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Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the dough; a cold skillet can lead to sticking and a soggy crust.
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Thin Layer: Spread the sourdough discard in a thin, even layer for a beautifully crisp base; too thick may result in an undercooked center.
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Topping Freedom: Feel free to customize your toppings! Use whatever leftovers you have to make this Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza truly your own.
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Storage Sense: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheating in the oven preserves the crust's texture.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don't hesitate to swap out barbecue sauce or cheeses; different combinations can give your pizza new life each time you make it.
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizzas with Barbecue Chicken and Sweet Potato are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pizza base using sourdough discard up to 24 hours in advance; just cook it until set, then let it cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its crispy texture. You can also chop the sweet potatoes and cook them ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble your pizza with barbecue sauce, toppings, and cheese, then bake it in the oven for about 10 minutes. This way, you'll enjoy a delicious homemade pizza with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Sourdough Discard Variations
There are endless ways to take this pizza to the next level—let's get creative and make it yours!
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Vegan Swap: Substitute shredded chicken with roasted chickpeas or jackfruit for a plant-based delight. This keeps the heartiness while adding an earthy flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before baking for a fiery touch. Spice lovers will appreciate this punch of heat!
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Cheesy Delight: Try using a blend of cheeses like fontina and goat cheese for an upscale twist. This combination adds creaminess with a tangy depth.
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Herbed Up: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the pizza before baking for a fragrant touch. These herbs infuse a garden-fresh flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top after baking for added texture and richness. The crunch beautifully contrasts the soft layers.
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Mediterranean Style: Swap barbecue sauce for marinara, and top with kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean spin. A delightful fusion of flavors awaits!
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey over the top after baking for a sweet contrast to savory elements. This simple addition enhances flavor complexity in every bite.
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Gluten-Free Base: Use a gluten-free pizza mix to accommodate dietary needs. Your crust will still be tasty and satisfying!
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, whether it's thick or thin, as long as it's bubbly and active. If your discard has been sitting in the fridge, let it rest at room temperature for a few hours before using. This will enhance its flavor and fermentation!
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing; this will help maintain its texture and flavors.
Can I freeze slices of the pizza?
Yes, you can freeze slices of your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if the pizza sticks to the skillet?
If your pizza sticks, it could be due to not having a hot enough skillet or not enough oil. Be sure to preheat your cast iron skillet and apply a generous layer of olive oil before adding the dough. If it does stick, carefully slide a spatula around the edges to release it, and try to loosen it gently before lifting.
Is this pizza suitable for specific dietary restrictions?
The Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza is very adaptable! If you’re avoiding gluten, you might try a gluten-free sourdough starter. For dairy-free options, opt for vegan cheese or skip the cheese entirely; the combination of barbecue sauce and toppings will still yield a flavorful pizza! Feel free to swap out any ingredients to accommodate allergies or personal preferences.
How can I customize the toppings?
The more the merrier! This pizza is a wonderful canvas. You can switch out the barbecue chicken for items like diced turkey, chickpeas, or even leftover vegetables. Additionally, experimenting with different sauces such as buffalo or ranch—along with a variety of cheeses—will elevate your Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza to new delicious heights!
Easy Sourdough Discard Skillet Pizza with Barbecue Chicken Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your cast iron skillet either on high heat or in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C).
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Pour in your sourdough discard, spreading it into a thin and even layer.
- Cook for about 2 minutes, watching for the base to set.
- Transfer the crust to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread a layer of barbecue sauce over the pizza base, followed by the shredded chicken, sweet potatoes, and mozzarella.
- Bake in your preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Serve hot straight from the oven.
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