BBQ Chicken Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavorful twist on traditional pizza, combining smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, melty cheese, and crisp red onions on a golden crust. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.

ingredients

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

pizza dough
cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
mozzarella cheese (shredded)
red onion (thinly sliced)
fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
olive oil
salt and pepper
cornmeal or flour (for dusting)

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.

Transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal or flour.

Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the dough and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Spread a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the surface, leaving a small border.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the cooked chicken and sliced red onions.

Carefully slide the pizza (with parchment) onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before topping with fresh cilantro.

Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields one 12-inch pizza, serving 2-4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use smoked gouda or cheddar cheese for added depth of flavor.
Add cooked bacon or sliced jalapeños for extra kick.
Try a whole wheat or cauliflower crust for a healthier base.
Swap red onions for caramelized onions for a sweeter profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds.
For a crispier crust, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

What kind of barbecue sauce works best?
A smoky or slightly sweet barbecue sauce pairs well with the other toppings, but feel free to use your favorite.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.

Is fresh or pre-shredded cheese better?
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a more natural flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prep all the toppings and dough in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Preheat your baking surface and avoid overloading with sauce or toppings to keep the crust crisp.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a deliciously bold and satisfying alternative to classic pizza, bringing together smoky, cheesy, and tangy elements in every bite. It’s easy to make at home and customizable to your taste, making it a surefire hit for pizza night or entertaining.

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