BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavor explosion that marries smoky, tangy barbecue sauce with the comforting embrace of melted cheese and tender chicken. Imagine biting into a crispy crust topped with juicy chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and a sprinkle of cilantro that makes your taste buds dance like they’re at a summer festival. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made BBQ Chicken Pizza for my family. We were gathered around the kitchen island, and the aroma wafting from the oven was enough to draw everyone in like moths to a flame. The excitement built until we each pulled a slice, and laughter filled the air as we tried to avoid the cheesy strings that seemed to cling to each slice. What better way to celebrate a cozy night in or impress friends at your next gathering?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This BBQ Chicken Pizza offers an easy preparation method, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings
- The flavor profile combines sweet, smoky, and savory elements for a delightful bite
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Plus, you can customize toppings based on your preferences or dietary needs
Friends rave about this pizza’s irresistible flavors every time I serve it at parties.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust according to how many people you’re feeding.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand; the sweeter varieties work best for that classic BBQ flavor.
Pizza Dough: You can buy pre-made dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that gooey texture we all love.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced; it adds crunch and sweetness when caramelized.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the flavors; feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, allow it to rest according to package instructions before stretching it out into your desired shape.
Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking them in a skillet over medium heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side.
Sauce It Up: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and toss it with approximately 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce until evenly coated. This step is essential for maximum flavor!
Roll Out Your Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it onto a baking sheet or pizza stone lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Assemble Your Pizza: Spread another 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce on top of the dough as your base. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce followed by shredded chicken and thinly sliced red onions.
Bake It Up: Place the pizza in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese bubbles enticingly. The smell will have everyone wandering into the kitchen!
Garnish & Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before slicing into pieces—enjoy this masterpiece while hot!
You Must Know
- BBQ Chicken Pizza is a crowd-pleaser that combines sweet and smoky flavors
- The crispy crust and gooey cheese make it irresistible
- This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in front of the TV
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F. Cook the chicken first, then roll out the dough while preparing toppings for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different meats like pulled pork or add veggies such as bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly crispy crust, pre-bake your pizza dough for five minutes before adding toppings
- Always let your chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy
- Use barbecue sauce sparingly; too much can make the pizza soggy
The first time I made BBQ Chicken Pizza, my friends declared it the best pizza ever! Their delighted faces were priceless, and now it’s our go-to dish for game nights.
FAQ
What type of barbecue sauce works best for BBQ Chicken Pizza?
Use a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce to enhance flavors without overpowering them.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and still delivers delicious results.
How can I make my pizza spicier?
Add jalapeños or spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick that will excite your taste buds!

BBQ Chicken Pizza
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 slices 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a deliciously bold dish that combines smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese on a crispy crust. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively party with friends. With vibrant colors and customizable toppings, this pizza is sure to impress your taste buds and guests alike!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus 1/4 cup for the base)
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Allow store-bought pizza dough to rest if using.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Shred the cooked chicken and toss with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce until well-coated.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to approximately 12 inches in diameter; transfer to a lined baking sheet.
- Spread 1/4 cup barbecue sauce on the dough, then layer with mozzarella cheese, shredded chicken, and red onions.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese bubbles. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg