If you’re looking for a pizza that brings the flavors of the barbecue right to your table, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect choice. With smoky, sweet barbecue sauce, juicy grilled chicken, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will surely impress. Let’s dive into the details of making this delectable dish!
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pizza crust
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Olive oil (for brushing)
– Optional: jalapeños for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (1/4 of the pizza) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Brush the pizza crust lightly with olive oil.
- Spread barbecue sauce evenly over the crust.
- Layer the shredded chicken over the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add red onion slices evenly across the pizza.
- Optional: Add jalapeños for extra spice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. Additionally, use a gluten-free pizza crust for a gluten-free option. For a vegan version, replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegan cheese.
Serving and Pairings
This BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs well with a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or a light pasta side. A cold beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can freeze the pizza before baking; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much sauce can make the pizza soggy.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Overcooking the pizza can lead to burnt edges.
- Forgetting to let the pizza cool before slicing can make it messy.
- Skipping the olive oil can result in a dry crust.
Helpful Tips
- Try different BBQ sauces for unique flavors.
- Let the chicken marinate in BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken on the pizza?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe. Raw chicken may not cook thoroughly in the time it takes to bake the pizza.
What type of barbecue sauce is best?
The best barbecue sauce depends on your taste preferences. A smoky sauce works well, but feel free to experiment with sweet or spicy varieties.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is this pizza gluten-free?
The recipe as written is not gluten-free. However, you can easily substitute a gluten-free pizza crust.
What toppings can I add?
Feel free to add toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple to customize your pizza.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy the delightful taste of barbecue on a crispy crust, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!

BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Olive oil for brushing
- Optional: jalapeños for heat
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Brush the pizza crust lightly with olive oil.
- Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the crust.
- Layer the shredded chicken over the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add red onion slices evenly across the pizza.
- Optional: Add jalapeños for extra spice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.