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This Thai Chicken Flatbread Pizza transforms ordinary naan bread into a flavor-packed meal that combines the best of Thai cuisine with the comfort of pizza. The rich peanut sauce with tender chunks of chicken creates an irresistible base, while the fresh toppings add color, texture, and brightness to every bite.
I created this recipe after a particularly hectic week when I wanted something special but didn’t have the energy for complicated cooking. My family was so impressed they requested it three times the following month, and it’s now our go-to when we’re craving something different from standard pizza night.
Ingredients
- Naan flatbreads: Provide the perfect sturdy yet chewy base that crisps beautifully in the oven
- Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb the flavorful sauce
- Peanut butter: Creates the rich, creamy foundation for the sauce with authentic Thai inspiration
- Fish sauce: Adds that unmistakable umami depth that makes Thai food distinctive
- Sriracha: Brings customizable heat level to balance the sweetness from brown sugar
- Mozzarella cheese: Helps bind everything together while complementing not overpowering the Thai flavors
- Bean sprouts and matchstick carrots: Add essential fresh crunch and color contrast
- Coconut yogurt: Provides cooling tropical notes that balance the savory elements
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Crema:
- Combine coconut yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl, stirring until completely smooth. The consistency should be somewhat thick but drizzleable. Refrigerate while preparing the rest of the pizza to allow flavors to develop and meld together.
- Prepare the Cooking Surface:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil or a silicone mat. This step seems simple but ensures easy cleanup later and helps the flatbreads crisp evenly without sticking to the pan.
- Create the Peanut Sauce Base:
- Whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, Sriracha, garlic powder, dried basil, ginger, salt and pepper in a bowl. Keep the peanut butter separate for now as we will add it later to create the perfect texture.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add chicken pieces and cook just until the exterior turns white with no pink showing. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven so avoid overcooking now which would make it dry.
- Finish the Peanut Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the partially cooked chicken and simmer for two minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Then stir in the peanut butter until completely melted and smooth, creating a thick, luscious coating for the chicken.
- Assemble the Pizzas:
- Spread the peanut chicken mixture evenly across both naan flatbreads, reaching almost to the edges. Layer with mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced red onions, matchstick carrots, and bean sprouts in that order for optimal melting and texture.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled flatbreads on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and edges begin to brown. For extra color and flavor, broil for 1 to 2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Finish with Garnishes:
- Remove from oven and drizzle with the coconut crema, then sprinkle with chopped cilantro and peanuts for fresh flavor and textural contrast. Let rest for 1 minute before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly.
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The secret star of this recipe is definitely the fish sauce. I was initially nervous about using it since the aroma can be strong, but it transforms completely during cooking and provides that authentic Thai flavor that cannot be replicated with any substitute. The first time I served this to friends, they couldn't identify what made it taste so authentic until I revealed my secret ingredient.
Make Ahead Options
This flatbread pizza can be partially prepared in advance to make weeknight dinners even faster. The peanut chicken mixture can be made up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop before spreading on the naan. The coconut crema can also be prepared a day in advance, though you may need to whisk it again before using as it might separate slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those with dietary restrictions or ingredient availability issues, this recipe adapts beautifully. Gluten free flatbreads work perfectly in place of traditional naan. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas that have been patted dry and sautéed until crispy. The fish sauce can be replaced with additional soy sauce plus a squeeze of lime for those avoiding seafood products, though the flavor profile will change slightly. For a dairy free version, use a plant based cheese alternative that melts well, or simply omit the cheese and increase the other toppings.
Serving Suggestions
These flatbread pizzas make a spectacular casual dinner party main course when served with a simple side salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. Cut each flatbread into small squares for an impressive appetizer that will disappear quickly at gatherings. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing to balance the rich flavors of the pizza. A cold Thai beer or sparkling limeade complements the flavors beautifully and helps cool the mild heat from the Sriracha.
Cultural Context
This recipe beautifully represents fusion cuisine by combining the beloved Italian concept of pizza with authentic Thai flavors. Peanut sauce is a staple in Thai cooking, particularly popular in dishes like chicken satay. By incorporating these distinct flavor profiles onto a flatbread base, we create something that honors both culinary traditions while creating something uniquely delicious. The combination of sweet, salty, sour and spicy elements reflects the balanced approach to flavor that makes Thai cuisine so globally popular.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the naan flatbread with something else?
Yes, you can use pita bread, pre-made pizza dough, or even tortillas as alternatives. Each will provide a slightly different texture, but all work well with the Thai flavors.
- → How spicy is this Thai chicken flatbread?
The spice level is mild to medium, mainly coming from the Sriracha in the peanut sauce. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more Sriracha for extra spice or omitting it completely for a milder version.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You'll also need to substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari to make it completely vegetarian.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make the flatbread soggy.
- → What can I serve with this Thai chicken flatbread?
This dish works well with a simple side salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. A cucumber salad with a lime dressing would also complement the Thai flavors nicely.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
Yes, the peanut sauce chicken mixture and the coconut crema can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the flatbreads just before serving.