If you love bold flavors and crave a pizza that hits all the right notes, this amazing BBQ chicken pizza is for you. Combining smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and a crispy homemade crust, it makes for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this BBQ chicken pizza recipe will quickly become a favorite. You’ll enjoy the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen
- Homemade dough for a crispy, chewy crust
- Balanced smoky and sweet BBQ chicken flavor
- Quick prep and baking time, perfect for weeknights
- Customizable toppings to suit your taste
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ chicken pizza from scratch, including the dough, sauce, and toppings.
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or diced bell peppers
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour dough rising)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
How to Make Amazing BBQ Chicken Pizza
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F and lightly flour a baking sheet or pizza stone. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Spread 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top with shredded chicken coated in the remaining barbecue sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese and sliced red onions evenly on top.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle chopped cilantro and optional jalapeños or bell peppers as desired. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use warm water to activate the yeast properly for a good dough rise.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings to avoid a soggy crust.
- Preheat your oven fully for a crispier crust.
- Let the pizza rest a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to set.
- Feel free to swap mozzarella for smoked gouda for a richer BBQ flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover BBQ chicken pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat refrigerated slices in a 375°F oven on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works well. Just follow package instructions for thawing and rolling out before adding toppings.
What’s the best barbecue sauce for this pizza?
Go for a tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce that complements the chicken without overpowering the cheese. You can use your favorite brand or a homemade sauce.
Can I use chicken other than breast?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked thighs work great and add extra juiciness and flavor to the pizza.
How do I make this pizza spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or use a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat to your liking.
