This BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on the classic! It features a crispy crust topped with juicy chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melty cheese. It’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Making this pizza is a blast! I like to get the kids involved in topping it. Plus, the leftover slices are perfect for a quick lunch—because who doesn’t love pizza any time of day? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Crust: You can use a pre-made pizza crust for convenience or make your own if you have time. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust, which is a fun twist!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s quick and tasty. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce! I love a smoky or spicy one, but honey BBQ works great for a milder taste. Just check the sugar content if you’re watching your intake!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for pizza, but you can mix things up with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese alternatives.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley makes a great substitute for that fresh touch, or just leave it off entirely!
How Do You Get a Crispy Pizza Crust?
A crispy crust is essential for a fantastic pizza! Here are some tips to achieve the perfect texture:
- Preheat your oven properly according to the crust instructions, ensuring it’s nice and hot before baking.
- Brush olive oil on the crust to create a barrier, which helps keep it from getting soggy.
- If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. This ensures the crust starts cooking immediately upon contact.
- Avoid overloading the toppings, which can weigh down the crust. Less is more for that crispy finish!
How to Make Amazing BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Pizza takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total time of around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy meals are always a win!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven based on the instructions for the pizza crust you are using. Typically, this is around 475°F (245°C) to get it nice and hot for a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, take your shredded chicken and pour the BBQ sauce over it. Stir well until the chicken is completely coated with the sauce. Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
3. Roll Out the Crust:
If you’re using a pre-made pizza crust, simply roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Then, place it on a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy clean-up!
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, brush a light layer of olive oil over the surface of the crust. This little step helps keep it crispy!
5. Add the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the pizza crust. Make sure it’s well-distributed so every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Top with Red Onions:
Evenly scatter your sliced red onions over the chicken. This adds a nice crunch and a lovely flavor to the pizza!
7. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, making sure to cover the chicken and onions well. If you want to kick it up a notch, add some shredded cheddar cheese, too!
8. Bake the Pizza:
Pop the pizza into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the crust is crispy.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take the pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
10. Slice and Serve:
Use a pizza cutter to slice your pizza into wedges. Serve it hot, and enjoy your Amazing BBQ Chicken Pizza with family and friends!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred the chicken off the bones and mix with BBQ sauce as directed. It will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup with a dash of worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and some honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Adjust the ingredients to your taste for a homemade BBQ sauce!
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
To store any leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for best results, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Pizza?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with toppings like bell peppers, jalapeños, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just ensure any additional toppings are cooked or prepped ahead of time so they warm through in the oven.
