BBQ Chicken Pizza

If you’re craving a mouthwatering dinner that combines the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue with the melty, cheesy goodness of pizza, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is your go-to recipe. Using a pre-made pizza crust makes this meal both quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender shredded chicken tossed in a flavorful BBQ sauce, complemented by sharp red onions and fresh cilantro, every bite bursts with deliciousness. Plus, it’s customizable, so feel free to add colorful bell peppers for a little extra crunch and sweetness.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This BBQ Chicken Pizza is a winner because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. No need to fuss with homemade dough—grab a pre-made crust and you’re halfway there. The combination of BBQ sauce and chicken is a classic that never gets old, and the addition of fresh red onions and cilantro lifts the whole dish with brightness and crunch. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or serving it at a party, this pizza is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought or from a local bakery)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (ensure it’s alcohol-free)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional, for added crunch and color)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or pizza stone – for baking the pizza evenly
• Mixing bowl – to toss the chicken with BBQ sauce and spices
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing onions, bell peppers, and chopping cilantro
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot trays
• Spatula or tongs – to spread toppings gently

Stepwise Method: BBQ Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help crisp up the crust nicely while melting the cheese to perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until every piece is well coated in the sauce. This step infuses the chicken with rich, smoky flavors that are the heart of the pizza.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Place the pre-made pizza crust on your baking sheet or pizza stone. Evenly spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the crust, making sure to leave a small border around the edges for the crust to crisp. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken layer.

Next, add the thinly sliced red onions and bell peppers if you’re using them. These add a nice crunch and a pop of color. Finish by sprinkling the chopped cilantro on top for freshness.

Step 4: Bake

Slide the pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The crust should be crispy but not burnt.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your BBQ Chicken Pizza from the oven carefully. Let it rest for a minute or two before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect bite of smoky, cheesy, and fresh flavors.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Swap shredded mozzarella for smoked gouda or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
• Use rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep.
• Replace red onions with pickled red onions for a tangier bite.
• If you don’t have fresh cilantro, sprinkle dried parsley or basil instead.
• Try adding sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

What I Learned Testing

• Using a pre-made crust drastically cuts down prep time without sacrificing taste.
• Coating the chicken thoroughly in BBQ sauce ensures every bite is flavorful and moist.
• The optional bell peppers add a great texture contrast, but the pizza is delicious without them too.
• Thinly slicing the onions prevents overpowering bites and allows them to soften perfectly during baking.
• Fresh cilantro sprinkled on after baking adds a lovely fresh note that balances the smoky BBQ flavors.

Save It for Later

If you want to make this BBQ Chicken Pizza again (and trust me, you will), save this recipe in your favorites or bookmark this page. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both quick and crowd-pleasing. You can even prep the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days, making assembly and baking even faster. Also, if you enjoy experimenting with sauces, don’t miss out on trying a Cherry Bourbon Bbq Sauce For Ribs on your next pizza night for a fruity twist!

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen pre-made pizza crust?

Absolutely! Just thaw the crust according to package instructions before assembling your pizza. This will ensure an even bake and prevent sogginess.

What type of BBQ sauce works best for this pizza?

Choose a BBQ sauce that you love the taste of and make sure it’s alcohol-free. Sweet and smoky sauces tend to complement the chicken well, but feel free to experiment with tangier or spicier varieties.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and load up on veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. You can also add plant-based BBQ “chicken” alternatives if you like.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet for best texture rather than the microwave.

Similar Recipes

• Honey Bbq Chicken And Rice – a comforting, saucy chicken dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Cherry Bourbon Bbq Sauce For Ribs – a unique BBQ sauce recipe you can use to amp up your pizza or ribs.

Make It Tonight

Ready to satisfy those cravings? This BBQ Chicken Pizza is a simple, flavorful option that comes together quickly with minimal prep. Grab your pre-made crust, toss the chicken with BBQ sauce, layer on the cheese and veggies, and bake. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously smoky, cheesy pizza that’s perfect for dinner tonight. Pair it with a fresh green salad or your favorite side, and enjoy!

With its unbeatable combination of smoky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melty mozzarella, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, it’s an easy recipe that delivers big on flavor every time.

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