Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delicious fusion of smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese all atop a crispy pizza crust. This flavorful pizza is a crowd-pleaser, combining the savory goodness of BBQ chicken with the comfort of pizza. Whether for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, it’s a perfect choice to satisfy your cravings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
red onion (thinly sliced)
mozzarella cheese (shredded)
cheddar cheese (shredded)
cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
olive oil (for brushing the crust)

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness and shape.

Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.

Brush the pizza crust lightly with olive oil and bake for 5-7 minutes to slightly crisp the base.

While the crust is baking, toss the cooked chicken in BBQ sauce until fully coated.

Once the pizza crust is pre-baked, remove it from the oven and spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on the base.

Top with the BBQ chicken, red onion slices, and a generous sprinkle of both mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 2 servings (1 pizza).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15-17 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

Add bacon bits or sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
Top with fresh pineapple for a sweet contrast to the BBQ.
Use a different cheese like gouda or blue cheese for a unique twist.
For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños on top.

storage/reheating

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pizza crust?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly fine for a quick and easy meal.

Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even leftover chicken works great.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer at 475°F (245°C) for about 15-18 minutes.

What type of BBQ sauce is best?
A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce works well for this pizza, but you can use a tangy or spicy sauce depending on your preference.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.

How do I get a crispy pizza crust?
Pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings, and ensure your oven is fully preheated.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that combines the tanginess of BBQ sauce with the cheesy goodness of pizza. With tender chicken, smoky sauce, and a crispy crust, it’s an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy it with friends, family, or just for yourself!