This BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on a classic favorite! It’s topped with tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese that melts beautifully.
The best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings! I love adding red onions for a little crunch and cilantro for a fresh kick. Pizza night just got better! 🍕
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or make your own if you prefer. If you’re gluten-free, look for a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower crust as a substitute.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here for a quick meal. Alternatively, you can use leftover grilled or baked chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-sugar or organic BBQ sauces are available. Sweet chili sauce can also be a tasty alternative!
Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar is perfect for this dish, but feel free to experiment with gouda or pepper jack for a little extra flavor. Dairy-free cheese substitutes are available for those with lactose intolerance.
Red Onion: If red onions are too strong for your taste, consider using green onions for a milder flavor. You could also use caramelized onions for a sweeter touch.
How Can I Get My Pizza Dough Just Right?
Getting the dough to stretch out evenly can be a bit tricky. Here are a few tips to help you out:
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling; this helps it relax.
- Lightly flour your surface and your hands to avoid sticking.
- Stretch it gently with your fingers and use a rolling pin if needed. Remember to keep pushing from the center outwards to maintain an even thickness.
If it springs back, just let it rest for a few minutes and try again! This will help you achieve a lovely round pizza base.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about a 12-inch diameter)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and cheddar works well)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the crust)
- Optional: salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Pizza takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 12-15 minutes to bake, making the total time about 35 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun pizza night with family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well, which will help give you a crispier crust.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and mix it with 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce until it’s well coated. This will give the chicken that flavorful BBQ taste that we all love!
3. Shape the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out or stretch the pizza dough into a circle that’s about 12 inches in diameter. Keep it about 1/4 inch thick for a lovely, chewy crust.
4. Transfer to the Baking Surface:
Carefully move the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal, or place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you don’t have a pizza stone. This will make it easier to transfer your pizza to the oven.
5. Prep the Crust:
Using a brush, lightly coat the edges of the crust with olive oil. This helps it bake up golden and crispy.
6. Layer the Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the pizza base, leaving about an inch around the edges for the crust. Don’t overdo it on the sauce to prevent a soggy pizza!
7. Add the Chicken:
Now, evenly distribute the BBQ chicken over the sauce. Make sure to spread it out so every slice gets a nice portion of chicken!
8. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken for that melty goodness. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar will give you great flavor and texture.
9. Top with Onions:
Scatter the thin slices of red onion on top of the cheese. This will add a nice crunch and a tasty bite!
10. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is nicely melted and bubbly.
11. Add Finishing Touches:
When the pizza is done, remove it from the oven. Drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce around the edges for a beautiful finish. Then, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top to add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
12. Slice and Enjoy:
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it up. This will make it easier to cut and eat! Serve it to your family or friends and enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza.
Have fun customizing this pizza to your liking, and enjoy every bite of its savory deliciousness!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. You can find it in most grocery stores, usually in the refrigerated section. Just follow the instructions on the package for best results.
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
To store leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!
Can I Use Different Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with toppings. You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a twist. Just keep in mind that some toppings might require pre-cooking, especially if they have a high moisture content.
How Do I Prevent the Crust from Getting Soggy?
To avoid a soggy crust, be sure to use a thin layer of barbecue sauce and avoid overloading with toppings. Pre-baking the crust for 5 minutes before adding the toppings can also help firm things up!
