BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delicious fusion of classic pizza and the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue. This popular recipe features a crispy crust topped with savory BBQ sauce, tender chicken, melted cheese, and red onions, all finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s packed with bold, satisfying flavors from BBQ sauce and gooey cheese
• Super easy to customize with your favorite toppings
• A great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken
• Comes together quickly for a delicious homemade meal
• It’s a fun twist on traditional pizza that everyone will enjoy

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 breast, shredded or chopped
• Barbecue sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
• Olive oil
• Cornmeal or flour for dusting

directions

1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
3. Brush the crust with olive oil, then spread a layer of barbecue sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Toss chicken with a little BBQ sauce and scatter it evenly over the pizza.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top, followed by red onion slices.
6. Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, slice, and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes before baking
• Sweeter twist: Include pineapple chunks for a Hawaiian BBQ spin
• Cheese blend: Try adding smoked gouda or cheddar for more flavor
• Meat swap: Use pulled pork or bacon instead of chicken
• Veggie version: Replace meat with mushrooms or grilled veggies

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

What’s the best chicken to use for BBQ Chicken Pizza?

Rotisserie chicken works great, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh will do.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether sweet, smoky, or spicy—to suit your taste.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the toppings ahead and assemble just before baking for the freshest result.

What other cheeses go well on this pizza?

Smoked gouda, cheddar, or even provolone all add unique flavors that complement the BBQ sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pizza with toppings. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

How do I make the crust crispy?

Bake the pizza on a preheated stone or baking steel, or use a perforated pizza pan.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute with your favorite gluten-free pizza dough.

What if I don’t have red onions?

You can use yellow or white onions, or even shallots for a milder flavor.

Can I grill this pizza instead of baking?

Absolutely—grilling adds a great smoky flavor. Use indirect heat and grill until the crust is done and cheese melted.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that brings together the best of both barbecue and pizza worlds. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just craving something different, this recipe hits all the right notes. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and tangy goodness.

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