BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on the classic pie! It features tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese all on a crispy crust. Yum!
It’s perfect for sharing with friends, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love pizza? I like to add a sprinkle of cilantro on top for a fresh kick. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Crust: A pre-made crust is super convenient, but you can also use homemade dough. If gluten-free is your goal, look for gluten-free crust options readily available in stores.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken works great here. You can also use turkey or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, try grilled or sautéed mushrooms.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce or try different kinds like smoky, spicy, or sweet. If you’re avoiding sugar, a sugar-free variety or making your own could be fun.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to mix in cheddar for extra flavor or vegan cheese if you prefer a plant-based option.
Onions: Red onions add a nice bite, but if you want something milder, go for green onions or even sautéed white onions for a sweeter touch.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Pizza Crust?
The crust is the foundation of your BBQ Chicken Pizza, so it’s worth taking some time to get it right. Here are tips to ensure it cooks perfectly:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to get a crisp base. If using a pizza stone, allow it to heat up for at least 30 minutes.
- Brush the edges of the crust with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a crispy outer layer.
- If you prefer a crunchier base, bake the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings. This is called par-baking.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (12-inch)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing crust)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Pizza takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have a delicious pizza ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is important for ensuring your pizza crust gets nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it with 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce. Make sure the chicken is well coated so every bite is flavorful!
3. Prep the Pizza Crust:
Lightly brush the edges of your pizza crust with olive oil. This will help it become golden and crunchy while baking.
4. Add Barbecue Sauce Base:
Using the remaining barbecue sauce, spread a thin layer evenly over the pizza crust. This will be the delicious base for your toppings!
5. Distribute the Chicken:
Evenly place the BBQ chicken mixture over the barbecue sauce-covered crust, ensuring you cover the surface well.
6. Add Vegetables:
Scatter the thinly sliced red onions and optional pineapple chunks across the pizza. The onions add a nice crunch, while the pineapple gives a hint of sweetness.
7. Sprinkle Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pizza. This will create that lovely, gooey layer of cheese when it bakes!
8. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Drizzle with Extra Sauce:
Once your pizza is out of the oven, drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce on top for an additional burst of flavor.
10. Garnish:
Finish off your pizza by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro on top. This adds a lovely fresh taste!
11. Slice and Serve:
Slice your BBQ Chicken Pizza and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite with family and friends!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with barbecue sauce before adding it to your pizza.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make your BBQ Chicken Pizza gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pizza crust. Many stores offer delicious gluten-free options that work well with this recipe!
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can use a mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices to create a quick homemade sauce. Alternatively, a teriyaki or sweet chili sauce can also offer a tasty twist!
Can I Prepare This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pizza up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven directly from the fridge. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if the pizza is cold.
