BBQ chicken pizza – It is the ultimate comfort food with sweet, tangy, smoky flavors with a savory twist. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish combines the best of tender, flavorful chicken with gooey cheese, zesty barbecue sauce, and a crisp crust. Perfect for family dinners or game nights.
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Is a Must-Try
BBQ chicken pizza has gained popularity for its unique flavor profile. Unlike traditional pizzas, the tomato sauce is swapped for a rich barbecue sauce, creating a sweet and smoky base that pairs beautifully with grilled or shredded chicken. Topped with melty mozzarella, red onions for a bit of crunch, and cilantro for a fresh kick, this pizza strikes the perfect balance of flavors.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Choose the Right Barbecue Sauce
- The barbecue sauce sets the tone for your pizza. Go for a high-quality sauce with a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness. Experiment with flavors like honey BBQ, spicy chipotle, or even bourbon-infused sauces for a gourmet twist.
- Pre-Cook Your Chicken
- For the best texture and flavor, use cooked chicken. Grilled, rotisserie, or leftover shredded chicken all work great. Toss the chicken in a bit of barbecue sauce before adding it to the pizza to lock in moisture and flavor.
- Par-Bake the Crust
- For a crispy crust, par-bake your pizza dough for 5–7 minutes before adding toppings. This ensures the base stays firm and doesn’t get soggy under the sauce and cheese.
- Layer Thoughtfully
- Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce first, then add your chicken and cheese. Save delicate toppings like cilantro for after baking to preserve their freshness.
Creative Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Swap out traditional pizza dough for a gluten-free alternative or cauliflower crust. These options are widely available in stores or easy to make at home.
- Vegan BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Use plant-based chicken substitutes and vegan mozzarella. Add roasted vegetables like peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Pizza
- For heat lovers, add jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha to your pizza. Spicy barbecue sauce also works wonders.
- Pineapple Twist
- Love Hawaiian pizza? Add diced pineapple to your BBQ chicken pizza for a tropical sweetness that complements the smoky sauce.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Pizza
This pizza is best served hot, fresh out of the oven, with melted cheese and bubbling toppings. Pair it with:
- Side Salads: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness of the pizza.
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch, blue cheese, or garlic butter add an extra layer of indulgence.
- Beverages: BBQ chicken pizza pairs wonderfully with cold beer, sparkling water, or a chilled glass of rosé.
Storing and Reheating BBQ Chicken Pizza
- How to Store
- Let the pizza cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container or wrap them in aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tips
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet and heat for 10–12 minutes.
- Skillet: For a crispy crust, reheat on a stovetop skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, then cover to melt the cheese.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds to avoid fogginess.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make BBQ chicken pizza ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the crust and toppings in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. Alternatively, bake the pizza, cool it, and store it for reheating later.
2. What’s the best cheese for BBQ chicken pizza?
Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness, but you can mix it with smoked gouda or cheddar for a more complex flavor.
3. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes! Store-bought dough works great and saves time. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
4. What toppings can I add?
In addition to chicken, red onions, and cilantro, you can add bacon, bell peppers, or even avocado slices post-baking for extra flavor.
5. Can I freeze BBQ chicken pizza?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ chicken pizza - This is the ultimate comfort food with sweet, tangy, smoky flavors with a savory twist. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish combines the best of tender, flavorful chicken with gooey cheese, zesty barbecue sauce, and a crisp crust. Perfect for family dinners or game nights.
Ingredients
- 1/2 recipe homemade pizza dough (or 1 lb. store-bought dough)
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp cornmeal
- 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (about 8 oz)
- 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2/3 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Use your favorite homemade or store-bought pizza dough. If frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed. Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C) and, if using, preheat a pizza stone.
- Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Lightly oil a pizza pan and sprinkle it with cornmeal for a flavorful, crispy crust. Create a rim by pinching the edges of the dough. Rest the dough briefly if it’s difficult to stretch.
- Poke a few dents into the dough with your fingers to prevent bubbling. Brush olive oil over the surface.
- Spread BBQ sauce evenly on top, then toss the chicken with extra sauce and scatter it over the pizza. Top with mozzarella, smoked gouda, and red onions.
- Bake for 14–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Sprinkle fresh cilantro (or basil) on top for a fresh finish.
- Slice and serve hot. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Information
Yield
1 PizzaServing Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 984Total Fat 64gSaturated Fat 26gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 33gCholesterol 247mgSodium 1486mgCarbohydrates 36gFiber 2gSugar 16gProtein 66g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken pizza is a deliciously versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Experiment with different toppings, sauces, and crusts to create your signature version of this classic dish. With the tips and tricks outlined here, you’re well on your way to serving a BBQ chicken pizza that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
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