HE ROLE OF BLUE CHEESE IN THE RECIPE
Blue cheese plays a dual role in this recipe, serving both as a topping and as a base for the homemade sauce. Its sharp, tangy profile complements the spicy buffalo sauce, creating a balance of flavors. In the sauce, it’s combined with heavy cream and mayonnaise, resulting in a creamy, flavorful complement that contrasts the spice and heat of the chicken. The additional crumbles on top add a burst of flavor and texture, making the blue cheese an indispensable component of this unique pizza.
INGREDIENTS:
CHICKEN:
- 6-8 chicken thighs, trimmed
- Avocado oil (for binder)
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
CHEESES AND HERBS:
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheese
- 1 1/2 cups blue cheese (plus additional for topping)
- 3 tablespoons chives, chopped
BLUE CHEESE SAUCE:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
ADDITIONAL:
- 1 frozen cheese pizza (I used Home Run Inn)
- Buffalo sauce (quantity as needed)
INSTRUCTIONS:
STEP 1: SEASONING THE CHICKEN
Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Begin by trimming 6-8 chicken thighs to remove excess fat. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and better flavor absorption. Once trimmed, coat the thighs lightly with avocado oil, which acts as a binder for the seasoning. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of black pepper, 1 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Apply this seasoning blend generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. The cayenne pepper adds the signature buffalo kick, while the garlic and onion powders bring a depth of flavor. Place the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This resting period allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.