Step 1: Make the Pizza Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. (If using quick-rise yeast, you can skip this step and mix directly with the flour.)
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
   • (If using quick-rise yeast, let it rest for just 30 minutes before rolling out.)

Step 2: Prepare the Nashville Hot Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken thigh pieces in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk.
   • Let soak for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for extra tenderness and flavor.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
   • Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
   • Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure an even, thick coating.
3. Fry Until Crispy:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry the coated chicken bites in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
   • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Hot Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Toss the fried chicken bites in the hot glaze until fully coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set the oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to preheat.
2. Prepare the Dough & Sauce:
   • Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to two 10-12 inch rounds.
   • Spread a generous layer of Best Ever Homemade Ranch Dressing over each dough round.
3. Layer the Toppings:
   • Sprinkle each pizza with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
   • Evenly distribute the Nashville hot chicken over the cheese.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • Transfer the pizzas onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
   • Bake at 450°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan, Basil & Crust Enhancements

1. Brush the Crust:
   • As soon as the pizzas come out of the oven, brush the crust edges with garlic butter or garlic oil for extra flavor.
2. Lightly Dust with Granulated Garlic:
   • While still hot, lightly dust the pizza with granulated garlic to enhance the overall flavor.
3. Add Parmesan & Basil:
   • Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.
4. Optional Additions:
   • If desired, add chopped dill pickles and pickled jalapeños for an extra tangy kick.
5. Make the Spicy Honey Ranch Drizzle:
   • Mix ranch dressing, honey, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
   • Drizzle over the pizzas before serving.

Step 5: Slice & Serve

Cut into slices and enjoy! The crispy, spicy chicken, creamy ranch, melty cheese, fresh basil, parmesan, garlic-kissed crust, and a drizzle of spicy honey ranch create the ultimate balance of bold flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Nashville Hot Chicken Pickle Pizza takes everything great about Nashville hot chicken and transforms it into an irresistible pizza experience. The heat from Frank’s RedHot, the creaminess of homemade ranch, the fresh parmesan and basil, and the garlicky crust make every bite unforgettable.

For the best results, don’t forget to use my Best Ever Homemade Ranch Dressing for the base and drizzle—it makes all the difference.