Chicago Thin Crust Pizza – Crispy, Flavorful, and Lightly Indulgent

This Chicago Thin Crust Pizza offers all the bold flavors of a classic pizza with a delightfully crisp and thin crust that’s lighter than the traditional deep-dish style. Loaded with fresh toppings, a rich tomato sauce, and just the right amount of cheese, it’s the perfect balance of satisfying and smart. Whether for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together, this pizza delivers big taste without weighing you down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Thin Crust – A light, crunchy base that holds toppings without getting soggy.
Rich Tomato Sauce – Fresh and flavorful, packed with herbs and spices.
Balanced Cheese – Just enough cheese for creamy, melty goodness without excess.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under an hour, perfect for homemade pizza nights.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1¼ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
• ½ tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅔ cup warm water
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the toppings:

• ½ cup no-sugar-added tomato sauce
• 1 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sliced bell peppers
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• ¼ cup sliced red onion
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.

3. Roll Out the Dough
Roll the dough thinly on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone.

4. Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, then arrange bell peppers, mushrooms, and onion on top. Sprinkle with dried oregano.

5. Bake the Pizza
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Protein: 14g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 5g

Tips for Success

Roll Thin but Handle Carefully – Thin crust can tear easily; dust with flour and roll gently.
Customize Toppings – Swap or add your favorite veggies or lean proteins.
Use a Pizza Stone – For an extra crispy crust, preheat a pizza stone in the oven.

Why This Recipe Works

Using whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, while a thin crust means less dough and fewer calories. Fresh vegetables and a light hand with cheese keep the pizza flavorful yet balanced. This recipe offers a healthier take on a Chicago favorite without sacrificing any taste.

This Chicago Thin Crust Pizza is a delicious, lighter way to enjoy a classic pizza night. Crispy, flavorful, and loaded with fresh toppings, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.