BBQ Chicken Pizza is a mouthwatering fusion of tangy barbecue sauce, tender grilled chicken, and melty cheese, all sitting atop a perfectly crispy crust. This crowd-pleaser is a great way to switch up your usual pizza night and add a smoky, savory twist to your meal. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using store-bought ingredients, this recipe is easy, quick, and sure to be a hit with the entire family.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making BBQ Chicken Pizza at home. We’ll cover everything from selecting the best ingredients to perfecting your pizza-making technique. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade pizza that rivals any restaurant version!
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza is a Must-Try
1. Incredible Flavor Combination
The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, combined with juicy chicken and gooey cheese, creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion
This pizza is great for family dinners, game nights, or weekend gatherings.
3. Customizable Toppings
You can add vegetables, swap out cheeses, or experiment with different barbecue sauces to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Pizza
For the Pizza Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Toppings
- 1 cup cooked, shredded or grilled chicken
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
- Toss the cooked chicken with half of the barbecue sauce to coat it evenly.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
- Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the remaining barbecue sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- Distribute the barbecue chicken and red onion slices on top.
- Season with garlic powder and black pepper.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Pizza
1. Use a Pizza Stone
A pizza stone helps create a crispier crust by evenly distributing heat.
2. Choose a High-Quality BBQ Sauce
The barbecue sauce is the main flavor driver of this pizza, so opt for a high-quality, flavorful brand.
3. Don’t Overload the Pizza
Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Keep it balanced for the best texture.
4. Experiment with Cheeses
Try adding smoked Gouda or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
5. Add a Drizzle of Extra BBQ Sauce
For extra flavor, drizzle some additional barbecue sauce over the baked pizza before serving.
Variations of BBQ Chicken Pizza
1. Spicy BBQ Chicken Pizza
Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza
Top with pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory combination.
3. Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Pizza
Use a cauliflower crust instead of traditional dough for a low-carb option.
4. Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza
Mix buffalo sauce with the barbecue sauce for an extra tangy flavor.
5. Vegetarian BBQ Pizza
Swap chicken for grilled mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a meat-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your BBQ Chicken Pizza with:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic knots or breadsticks
- A refreshing lemonade or iced tea
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Storing and Reheating BBQ Chicken Pizza
How to Store
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 5-7 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat on medium for a crispy crust.
- Microwave: Use for quick reheating, but the crust may not be as crispy.
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fantastic homemade option that brings bold flavors and easy preparation together in one delicious dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a party, or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless customization options, you can make it your own and enjoy a perfect slice every time.
So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of smoky, cheesy perfection with this homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe!
