This BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on your regular pizza night! With tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and melted cheese, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love tossing on extra toppings like red onions and cilantro for that extra kick! It’s a hit at parties—just be ready to guard the last slice! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: I love using pre-made pizza dough for its convenience. You could also use store-bought flatbreads or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s already cooked and very flavorful. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try substituting with grilled veggies or tofu!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce for this recipe. If you want a healthier version, try a low-sugar or homemade sauce. Honey mustard sauce can also be a tasty alternative.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic here, but I’ve also experimented with provolone or pepper jack for added flavor. Dairy-free cheese works well if you need a vegan option.
Cilantro: If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can swap in parsley or even arugula for a peppery twist. It’s all about your taste!
How Can I Get the Perfect Crust?
Getting the crust right is key to a great pizza experience. To achieve a crispy, golden crust, here are some helpful tips:
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature, like 475°F (245°C), and make sure your pizza stone is hot before placing the pizza on it.
- Dust the pizza peel with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking and help it slide onto the stone easily.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings. A well-balanced amount helps the crust cook properly!
- Brushing the edges with olive oil gives a beautiful golden color and adds flavor.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (about 12 inches in diameter)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing the crust)
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Pizza takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your homemade pizza in less than 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven so it can heat up nicely while you prepare your pizza.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
On a clean surface dusted with flour or cornmeal, take your pizza dough and roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make sure it’s flat and ready for toppings!
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel or a baking sheet. Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border for the crust. Next, toss your cooked chicken in a little extra barbecue sauce and spread it over the sauce-covered dough.
4. Add Cheese and Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. Then, add the sliced red onion on top for some crunch and flavor. If you’d like, brush the edges of the crust with olive oil for a nice golden finish.
5. Bake the Pizza:
Transfer the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once your pizza is done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few moments. If you like, drizzle a bit of extra barbecue sauce over the top for that extra flavor bomb. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the pizza before slicing into delicious pieces!
Enjoy your scrumptious BBQ Chicken Pizza with its smoky sauce, tender chicken, melted cheese, and a fresh kick from the red onion and cilantro! Happy eating! 🍕
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop the meat and toss it in some barbecue sauce before adding it to your pizza!
What If I Don’t Have a Pizza Stone?
No worries! If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Just preheat the baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes to help the crust get crispy.
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
Place any leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Add More Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative—bell peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños make great additions. Just be careful not to overload your pizza too much so it cooks evenly.
