BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a savory and flavorful variation on the classic pizza, combining the smoky, tangy goodness of barbecue sauce with tender chicken, crispy crust, and melty cheese. Whether you’re making it at home with your family or serving it at a party, BBQ Chicken Pizza is sure to be a hit. It’s a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir to dissolve. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder (if using). Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 7–8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this process.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. You can also let it rise in the fridge overnight if you’re making it ahead of time.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), or higher if your oven allows it. Place your pizza stone in the oven while it heats up.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Shred the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then shred it using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken with ½ cup of BBQ sauce until fully coated.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Dough

1. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch round (or desired size) pizza. If you want a thicker crust, roll it out to a smaller size.
2. Transfer to the Pizza Stone: If you’re using a pizza stone, dust a pizza peel with cornmeal to prevent sticking. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto the pizza peel. If using a baking sheet, place the dough on the sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Brush the Dough: Lightly brush the pizza dough with olive oil to create a barrier and help achieve a crispy crust. Spread ½ cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
2. Add Chicken and Toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded BBQ chicken over the pizza. If using, scatter thinly sliced red onion and corn kernels on top.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the pizza. Add crumbled blue cheese if using.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake: Slide the pizza (on the pizza peel or baking sheet) onto the preheated pizza stone or into the oven. Bake for about 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
2. Optional Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Tips for Success

1. High-Quality BBQ Sauce: Use a BBQ sauce that you love because the sauce will be the defining flavor of the pizza. Choose a smoky, tangy, or sweet variety based on your preferences.
2. Use a Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, it will help you achieve a crispier crust. Preheat it in the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza.
3. Shredded vs. Sliced Chicken: Shredded chicken helps distribute the BBQ sauce evenly, but if you prefer, you can slice the chicken thinly after cooking.
4. Caramelized Onions: For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions before adding them to the pizza. This will add a sweet richness to the dish.
5. Pizza Dough Options: You can buy pre-made pizza dough from the store to save time, or make a gluten-free pizza crust if you have dietary preferences or restrictions.
6. Thickness of Crust: If you prefer a thicker crust, allow the dough to rise longer or double the dough recipe for more volume.

BBQ Chicken Pizza Variations

While BBQ Chicken Pizza is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your taste.

1. Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza: Mix your BBQ sauce with some buffalo sauce to give the pizza a spicy kick. The combination of heat and sweet works wonderfully.
2. Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza: For an added smoky flavor, cook the chicken on the grill instead of on the stovetop. The grill marks will add an extra depth of flavor to the pizza.
3. Vegetarian BBQ Pizza: Instead of chicken, top the pizza with roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Drizzle with BBQ sauce for a satisfying vegetarian option.
4. BBQ Chicken and Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to your pizza for extra crunch and flavor. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce and chicken.

Common Troubleshooting

1. The Crust is Too Soft: If the crust is soft or doughy, try baking it for a few more minutes. If you’re using a thick dough, it might need additional baking time to crisp up.
2. The Cheese Isn’t Melting: Ensure that your oven is preheated adequately and that you’re using mozzarella with a good melt. You can also add a bit more cheese to encourage it to melt better.
3. The BBQ Sauce is Too Watery: If your BBQ sauce is too thin, try simmering it in a saucepan for a few minutes to reduce and thicken it before spreading it on the pizza.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Options

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pizza dough in advance. Once the dough has risen, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using it. This will allow the dough to develop more flavor.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Assemble the pizza, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides:

1. Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza.
2. Garlic Bread: Serve with some crispy, garlicky bread to complement the flavors of the pizza.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy and creamy coleslaw can help cut through the smokiness of the BBQ chicken and add some crunch to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make BBQ Chicken Pizza without a pizza stone?

• Yes! You can use a baking sheet instead. Preheat it in the oven before placing the pizza on it for a crispier crust.

What if I don’t have time to make pizza dough from scratch?

• You can always use store-bought dough, which will save time while still resulting in a delicious pizza.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Pizza gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Use gluten-free pizza dough or a cauliflower crust as a substitute for regular flour-based dough.

Perfect for Entertaining and Meal Prep

This pizza is also perfect for entertaining. Whether you are making a large pizza or several individual-sized ones, it’s easy to prepare and great for sharing. Additionally, you can make this pizza ahead of time, freeze it, and have it ready for a quick meal whenever you need it. It also reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Creating the Ultimate BBQ Chicken Pizza

With so many ways to customize BBQ Chicken Pizza, you can create the perfect version for any taste preference or dietary need. For example, you can opt for a thin crust or a thick, chewy crust depending on your preference. The toppings can vary from adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick, to swapping the cheese for something different like smoked gouda or feta.

For those who love a kick of spice, adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a few slices of fresh chili can provide the heat needed to balance the sweet BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with the type of BBQ sauce you use. A smoky, tangy sauce will give your pizza a deep flavor, while a sweeter, more vinegary BBQ sauce will bring out different notes in the chicken and cheese.

Additional Tips for the Ultimate Pizza Experience

1. Toppings and Garnishes:
   • BBQ Chicken Pizza is a blank canvas for creative toppings. Consider adding pineapple for a sweet and savory twist, or sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
   • If you’re using red onions, caramelizing them beforehand will bring out their natural sweetness and complement the BBQ sauce beautifully.
   • Consider drizzling a little extra BBQ sauce over the top after baking for an added burst of flavor.
2. The Right Cheese:
   • While mozzarella is the most commonly used cheese for BBQ Chicken Pizza, feel free to mix it up. A combination of mozzarella and cheddar adds a sharp, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ sauce.
   • Experiment with smoked cheese like smoked gouda or blue cheese for added depth of flavor.
3. Herbs for Freshness:
   • Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza. Sprinkle them on top just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
4. Cooking Tip:
   • Ensure that your oven is preheated properly before placing the pizza inside. The high heat (475°F or more) will help the pizza cook quickly and evenly, ensuring a crisp crust and melted cheese.

BBQ Chicken Pizza for Every Dietary Need

BBQ Chicken Pizza can be made to cater to various dietary restrictions and preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the regular pizza dough for a gluten-free version. You can buy pre-made gluten-free pizza crust or make your own with gluten-free flour.
• Dairy-Free: If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can use non-dairy cheese alternatives such as almond-based cheese or cashew cheese. You can also skip the cheese entirely for a lighter pizza.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and load the pizza with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives, and make sure to use a vegetarian BBQ sauce.
• Low-Carb/Keto: For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can use a cauliflower crust or fathead dough (a dough made with mozzarella, almond flour, and egg), which will lower the carb content significantly while still delivering the pizza experience.

Serving BBQ Chicken Pizza to Guests

When serving BBQ Chicken Pizza at a gathering or for dinner, consider pairing it with the following sides and beverages:

1. Side Salads: A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the pizza. You can add avocado, crumbled feta, or nuts for extra flavor.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or roasted sweet potatoes can be great additions to the meal, providing a healthy and flavorful contrast to the pizza.
3. Drinks: Pair your BBQ Chicken Pizza with a cold drink like iced tea, lemon-lime soda, or even a light beer like a pilsner. A glass of white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay) also complements the flavors well.

Conclusion: The Perfect Comfort Food

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of barbecue and pizza. With the right combination of savory chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, melted cheese, and a crispy crust, this pizza will become a new favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore different variations, BBQ Chicken Pizza is sure to satisfy every craving. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings!

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, having a casual family meal, or preparing a quick weeknight dinner. The beauty of BBQ Chicken Pizza lies in its versatility. You can customize it with different cheeses, vegetables, or even proteins based on what you have in your pantry or what you’re in the mood for. It’s an incredibly adaptable recipe that lets you add your personal touch, making it feel like your own unique creation.

Not only is it delicious, but BBQ Chicken Pizza also packs a flavorful punch with the combination of smoky, sweet BBQ sauce and savory chicken, balanced with the creaminess of melted cheese. The textures—from the crispy crust to the tender chicken—add complexity to every bite, making it an incredibly satisfying dish.

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a classic dish that is both comforting and bold, offering a satisfying combination of crispy crust, tender chicken, melted cheese, and a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce. Whether you choose to make it from scratch or use store-bought dough and ingredients, this pizza is sure to become a family favorite.

The recipe is adaptable to suit many tastes and dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, weeknight meals, and even meal prepping. As you experiment with different toppings, sauces, and crusts, you can put your personal stamp on this dish while still keeping the essence of what makes BBQ Chicken Pizza so delicious.

So go ahead, preheat your oven, prepare your toppings, and get ready to enjoy the perfect slice of BBQ Chicken Pizza that brings people together around the table for good food and great conversation!

Yield: 8 Slices

BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe

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BBQ Chicken Pizza is a savory and flavorful variation on the classic pizza, combining the smoky, tangy goodness of barbecue sauce with tender chicken, crispy crust, and melty cheese. Whether you're making it at home with your family or serving it at a party, BBQ Chicken Pizza is sure to be a hit. It’s a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (fresh, chopped, for garnish)
• Olive oil (for brushing the crust)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Dough:
   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you're using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
   Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness (about 12 inches in diameter for each pizza).
   
2. Prepare the Chicken and Toppings:
   In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce until well-coated.
   Slice the red onion thinly for topping.
   
3. Assemble the Pizzas:
   Place the rolled-out pizza dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
   Brush the edges of the pizza dough with a little olive oil.
   Spread 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce evenly over each pizza dough, leaving a border around the edges.
   Evenly distribute the BBQ-coated chicken, red onions, and cheeses over the sauce.
   
4. Bake the Pizza:
   Place the pizza(s) into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
   
5. Garnish and Serve:
   After baking, remove the pizza from the oven. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce, and sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top.
   Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

• Dough Tips:
  Homemade Dough: If making your own dough, allow for the rising time (about 1 hour) after mixing and kneading. You can refrigerate the dough overnight for a slower rise, which will develop more flavor.
  Store-bought Dough: If short on time, use pre-made pizza dough from the store. Simply roll it out and follow the remaining steps. Some stores even sell pre-baked pizza crusts for an even quicker option.
  
• Chicken:
  Shredded Chicken: For the BBQ chicken topping, cook the chicken breasts (or thighs) and shred them using two forks once cooled. Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce to coat evenly.
  Pre-cooked Chicken: If you’re in a hurry, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, saving even more time in preparation.
  
• BBQ Sauce:
  Store-bought BBQ Sauce: While using your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce is perfectly fine, you can experiment with different varieties (sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy).
  Homemade BBQ Sauce: For a more personalized touch, consider making your own BBQ sauce from scratch (recipe provided above).
  
• Cheese:
  The classic combo of mozzarella and cheddar cheese works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as smoked gouda, provolone, or even a bit of blue cheese for a tangy contrast.
  Cheese alternatives: If you need a dairy-free version, there are plenty of plant-based cheese options available.
  
• Crust Thickness:
  You can adjust the thickness of the crust by rolling the dough thinner or thicker, depending on your preference. A thinner crust will give you a crispier pizza, while a thicker crust will have a more substantial, chewy texture.
  
• Vegetable Additions:
  For extra flavor, consider adding thinly sliced red onions, bell peppers, or corn kernels to your BBQ chicken pizza. These ingredients pair perfectly with the smoky BBQ sauce and provide additional texture and flavor.
  
• Make-Ahead Tips:
  Dough: If you're making the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it rest and come to room temperature before rolling it out.
  Assembled Pizza: You can assemble the pizza and freeze it before baking. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
  
• Customizing Toppings:
  BBQ Chicken Pizza is very customizable. You can add jalapeños for heat, pineapple for a sweet contrast, or avocado after baking for a creamy touch.
  Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note when sprinkled on top just before serving.
  
• Gluten-Free Options:
  If you are following a gluten-free diet, substitute the regular pizza dough for gluten-free pizza crust. You can find many good options at stores, or you can make your own gluten-free dough at home.
  
• Serving Suggestions:
  BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens or a tangy coleslaw complements the rich, smoky flavors of the pizza.
  For drinks, consider serving the pizza with a light beer, a cold soda, or even a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.