Introduction

BBQ chicken pizza is a delightful and flavorful twist on traditional pizza, combining the smoky, sweet taste of barbecue sauce with tender chicken and melty cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, juicy chicken, and fresh toppings creates a dish that satisfies everyone’s cravings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pizza dough (1 pound)
– Cooked chicken breast, shredded (2 cups)
– BBQ sauce (1/2 cup)
– Red onion, thinly sliced (1/2 medium)
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 1/2 cups)
– Cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup)
– Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil (for drizzling)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)

Prep Time

Preparation time for this BBQ chicken pizza is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all ingredients and preparing them for assembly.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the pizza is about 15-20 minutes. This brings the total time to around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. The recipe yields one large pizza, which can serve 4 to 6 people, depending on slice sizes.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and grill them for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Shred the chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken using two forks.

Mix BBQ sauce

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

Prepare the pizza crust

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Stretch or roll out your pizza dough to fit your pizza stone or baking sheet.

Add toppings

Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on the pizza crust. Evenly distribute the sauced chicken over the crust, and then sprinkle red onion slices and cheese on top.

Bake the pizza

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.

Garnish and serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.

Notes

Chicken options

You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option; just shred it and mix it with BBQ sauce.

BBQ sauce

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a more personalized flavor.

Vegetarian option

Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian pizza.

Storage

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Cook techniques

Grilling the Chicken

Cooking the chicken on a grill adds a smoky flavor and gets nice char marks. Ensure that the grill is preheated and the chicken is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Making the BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ sauce can elevate the pizza’s flavor. Combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to create a tangy and sweet sauce that complements the chicken well.

Stretching the Pizza Dough

To properly stretch the pizza dough, use your hands to gently push down from the center outward while rotating the dough. Avoid using a rolling pin as it can make the dough dense.

Layering Ingredients

Layer the pizza with a base of BBQ sauce, followed by grilled chicken, cheese, and your choice of toppings. This ensures even cooking and balanced flavors.

Baking the Pizza

Bake the pizza on a hot pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet to achieve a crispy crust. Baking at a high temperature (around 475°F) works best for achieving that desirable crust.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce if you’re short on time or prefer a specific flavor.

What type of cheese works best for BBQ chicken pizza?

A combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese is popular, but you can also experiment with others like gouda or feta for different flavors.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with other meats like pulled pork or beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftover pizza?

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Can I make the pizza dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the pizza dough ahead of time. Allow it to rise, then wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Conclusion

This BBQ chicken pizza is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with tender chicken and melted cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, offering a delightful twist on traditional pizza that everyone will love.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Try substituting barbecue sauce with spicy buffalo sauce for a zesty kick, topped with blue cheese crumbles and celery.

Pesto Chicken Pizza

Use pesto sauce as the base, adding grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh, herby flavor.

Vegetarian BBQ Pizza

Replace chicken with a mix of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini, all drizzled with BBQ sauce.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza

Combine traditional BBQ chicken with pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory experience, finished with cilantro.

BBQ Chicken Flatbread

For a lighter option, use flatbread instead of pizza dough and top it with BBQ chicken, cheese, and green onions for a quick snack.

Loaded BBQ Chicken Nachos

Instead of pizza, layer tortilla chips with BBQ chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and avocado for a delicious party platter.