Mini Pizza Bites

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough (Skip if Using Store-Bought)

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until the dough starts forming.
  3. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Let it rest for 10 minutes while preparing toppings.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or a baking tray.

Step 3: Shape the Mini Pizza Bases

  1. If using homemade dough, roll it out to ¼-inch thickness and use a small cup or cookie cutter to cut out circles.
  2. Place the circles in the mini muffin tin, pressing lightly to form small cups. If using a baking tray, just lay them flat.

Step 4: Assemble the Mini Pizza Bites

  1. Spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each dough base.
  2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
  3. Add cooked chicken (or beef), bell peppers, onions, and olives on top.
  4. Season with oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the muffin tin or baking tray in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  2. Check the crust—it should be lightly crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
  2. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for added richness.
  3. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic butter.

Notes

Common Troubleshooting Tips:

  • If the dough is too sticky: Sprinkle in a little extra flour and knead for another minute.
  • If the edges brown too quickly: Lower the oven temperature slightly or bake on the middle rack.
  • If the cheese burns: Cover with foil halfway through baking.
  • If the crust is too soft: Bake for an extra 2-3 minutes to crisp it up.

Kitchen Efficiency Tips:

  • Pre-cook the chicken or beef in advance to save time.
  • Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but if grating your own, it melts better.
  • Chop vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick assembly.

Substituting Kitchen Tools:

  • No muffin tin? Just lay the dough circles flat on a baking sheet and bake like mini pizzas.
  • No rolling pin? Use a clean glass bottle to roll out the dough.
  • No cookie cutter? A small glass or jar lid works just as well.

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