The aroma of grilled summer BBQ chicken pizza wafts through the air, making your stomach growl in anticipation. The charred crust, topped with smoky barbecue chicken, melted cheese, and fresh herbs, promises a flavor explosion that beckons you closer.
This dish isn’t just about eating; it’s about sharing memories and laughter around the grill. Imagine a sunny afternoon with friends gathered around, each bite sparking joy and delicious conversations. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or an impromptu weeknight dinner, this pizza elevates any occasion into a flavorful celebration.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends
- The blend of smoky barbecue flavor and melty cheese creates a taste sensation everyone will love
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it catches the eye at any gathering
- This recipe is versatile enough for customization; swap ingredients based on what you have at home!
Ingredients for Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 2-3 chicken breasts, depending on how many pizzas you’re planning to make.
Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess; homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough makes life easier, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough adds an extra touch.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole-milk mozzarella for that gooey meltiness that pizza dreams are made of.
For Toppings:
Sliced Red Onion: Use thin slices to add a sweet crunch that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro lends a fresh burst of flavor that brightens up the entire dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza
Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, usually about 6-8 minutes per side.
Create BBQ Bliss: Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce until well-coated. This is where the magic happens!
Roll Out Your Dough: While your chicken cools off, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Aim for about half an inch thick for that perfect crispy base—no one likes soggy pizza!
Assemble the Pizza: Preheat your grill again while spreading a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the rolled-out dough. Top generously with shredded mozzarella followed by the saucy chicken mixture. Sprinkle sliced red onions on top to add zing.
Grill It Up: Carefully place your assembled pizza onto the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown while keeping an eye to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove your pizza from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top before slicing into glorious wedges. Enjoy each bite bursting with smoky goodness!
There you have it—a delightful journey into making grilled summer BBQ chicken pizza! Now go ahead and treat yourself to this delicious creation that brings sunshine straight to your plate!
You Must Know
- This delicious Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza offers more than just flavor; it makes summer evenings unforgettable
- You can easily customize the toppings based on what you love
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it a showstopper at any gathering, perfect for grilling under the stars
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. Grill it until cooked through, then prepare your pizza dough while the chicken cools. Once ready, assemble your pizza with sauce, cheese, and grilled chicken before tossing it on the grill for that perfect char.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the grilled chicken for shrimp or veggies if you want a twist. Try different sauces like pesto or white garlic sauce instead of traditional BBQ. Add jalapeños or fresh herbs for an extra kick of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled summer BBQ chicken pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining that delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a crispy crust, preheat your grill thoroughly before cooking the pizza
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact
- If using store-bought dough, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before shaping
You know that moment when you take a bite of pizza and the world just fades away? I had this experience at my buddy’s summer barbecue last year when I unveiled my grilled summer BBQ chicken pizza. Everyone went wild! It was a hit, and they asked me to share the recipe right there and then!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza?
To make Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza, gather the following ingredients: pizza dough, cooked chicken breast, your favorite barbecue sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, red onion slices, and fresh cilantro. You can also add toppings like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor. Ensure your chicken is seasoned well before grilling to enhance its taste. This recipe allows for flexibility, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How long should I grill the pizza?
Grilling the Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Place the pizza directly on the grill grates and keep an eye on it. The bottom will crisp up while the cheese melts. Rotate it occasionally for even cooking and ensure that no side burns. Once the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, your pizza is ready to enjoy.
Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought barbecue sauce when making Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza. Many brands offer delicious options that can save you time in the kitchen. However, if you prefer a homemade touch, consider making your own barbecue sauce using simple ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Homemade sauces allow you to control the flavor profile and sweetness according to your taste.
Is Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza suitable for meal prep?
Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza is quite suitable for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Additionally, you can make the pizza dough ahead of time and freeze it until you’re ready to use it. When preparing multiple pizzas at once, simply assemble all toppings beforehand and then grill them when needed for a quick meal option throughout the week.
Conclusion for Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza:
In summary, Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza offers a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any summer gathering or family dinner. With simple ingredients like grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and barbecue sauce, this recipe is both easy and customizable. Grill your pizza to achieve a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this pizza is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 slices 1x
Description
Grilled Summer BBQ Chicken Pizza is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any summer gathering. With smoky barbecue chicken, gooey mozzarella, and fresh toppings on a perfectly charred crust, this pizza promises to impress your friends and family. Quick to prepare and customizable, it transforms any meal into a festive occasion—ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from grill, shred, and mix with barbecue sauce.
- Roll out pizza dough to about ½ inch thick on a floured surface.
- Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the dough. Top with shredded mozzarella and the shredded chicken mixture, followed by sliced red onions.
- Place the assembled pizza on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pizza)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
