BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe for Game Night Fun

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of BBQ chicken pizza wafting through the kitchen. Imagine a crispy crust, perfectly charred, topped with tender pieces of barbecue chicken, gooey cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance.

I remember the first time I made BBQ chicken pizza for my friends during our weekly game night. Picture this: laughter filling the air, everyone fighting over the last slice, and me trying to keep a straight face while I secretly knew I had outdone myself. The combination of smoky barbecue sauce and savory chicken brought us all together, making it a night to remember. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving comfort food on a lazy Sunday, this BBQ chicken pizza will surely steal the show.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Pizza

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these thighs hold up well against the bold BBQ sauce.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that personal touch.
• Pizza Dough: Store-bought works like a charm; just roll it out and you’re good to go!
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This classic cheese melts beautifully and adds that gooey goodness we all love.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for some crunch and sweetness; it’s an essential topping for balance.
• Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a pop of freshness at the end—don’t skip it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in there as well—trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sear those boneless chicken thighs until they’re browned on both sides (about five minutes per side). They don’t have to be fully cooked yet since they’ll finish in the oven.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken using two forks or by hand. Toss it all in a bowl with your favorite barbecue sauce. Go heavy on that sauce—nobody wants dry pizza!

Step 4: Roll Out Your Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into your desired shape (round or rectangular) and transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza

Spread more barbecue sauce over the dough as if you were painting a masterpiece! Add the shredded chicken mixture evenly across the surface. Top generously with mozzarella cheese and scatter red onion slices on top.

Step 6: Bake and Garnish

Slide that beauty into your hot oven for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese bubbles like it’s having its own little party. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything before slicing.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce for that final touch of pizzazz!

There you have it—a delicious BBQ chicken pizza that not only fills bellies but also fills hearts with joy. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying solo while binge-watching your latest obsession, this dish is guaranteed to elevate any occasion. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling or baking the chicken first for that smoky flavor. While it cooks, prepare the pizza dough and preheat your oven. Assemble the pizza with sauce, cheese, and toppings before sliding it into the oven for crispy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out BBQ sauce for ranch or pesto if you’re feeling adventurous. Add jalapeños for a kick or throw on some fresh veggies like bell peppers or red onions for extra crunch and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover BBQ chicken pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the crust stays crispy.

I remember the first time I made BBQ chicken pizza; my friends devoured it within minutes! They were raving about it all night long, and it felt amazing to impress them with something so simple yet delicious.

FAQs

What are the key ingredients for BBQ chicken pizza?

To make BBQ chicken pizza, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Start with a pizza crust, either homemade or store-bought. For the sauce, use barbecue sauce as a base. Chicken, preferably cooked and shredded, plays a crucial role. Add toppings like red onions, mozzarella cheese, and cilantro for extra flavor. Feel free to customize with bell peppers or other vegetables to suit your taste.

How long does it take to cook BBQ chicken pizza?

Cooking BBQ chicken pizza typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven. If you’re using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for best results. Ensure that your oven is set to a high temperature—around 475°F (245°C). Keep an eye on the pizza; it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Can I grill my BBQ chicken pizza instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling BBQ chicken pizza can add a delightful smoky flavor! Preheat your grill to medium heat and use a pizza stone or place the dough directly on the grill grates. Cook each side for about 3-5 minutes before adding toppings. Close the lid to melt the cheese and finish cooking. Just remember to watch it closely to prevent burning.

What is a good side dish for BBQ chicken pizza?

When enjoying BBQ chicken pizza, consider pairing it with refreshing sides like a simple green salad or coleslaw. The crunch of fresh vegetables balances out the rich flavors of the pizza beautifully. Alternatively, garlic bread complements the dish well by adding more texture and flavor without overpowering your main meal.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for bbq chicken pizza

In summary, BBQ chicken pizza combines flavorful ingredients like tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese atop a crispy crust. Cooking options include baking or grilling, each offering its unique taste experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget your favorite sides for an enhanced meal experience! Enjoy your delicious creation!

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BBQ Chicken Pizza

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in this BBQ chicken pizza featuring tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese atop a crispy crust. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust:

• 1 lb pizza dough

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

For the Filling:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

For the Crust:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone inside if you have one.
2. 2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired shape and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.

For the Filling:

1. 3. In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sear the boneless chicken thighs until browned (about 5 minutes per side).
2. 4. Once slightly cooled, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with barbecue sauce in a bowl.
3. 5. Spread additional barbecue sauce over the prepared crust.
4. 6. Evenly distribute the shredded chicken mixture on top of the sauce.
5. 7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over everything, followed by red onion slices.

For Garnish:

1. 8. Bake in the hot oven for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
2. 9. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, slice, and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 55mg