Smoky, tangy, and irresistibly cheesy, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite. Juicy, seasoned chicken, a rich barbecue sauce base, gooey melted cheese, and a crisp, golden crust come together to create a perfect bite every time. Finished with red onions, fresh cilantro, and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce, this pizza is a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
What Makes This Pizza Special
BBQ Chicken Pizza is the ultimate comfort food with a bold and satisfying flavor profile. The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce replaces the traditional tomato base, giving every slice a unique and mouthwatering taste. The chicken is tender and flavorful, complemented by the crunch of red onions and the fresh pop of cilantro. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend get-together, or game night, this pizza is always a hit!
A Slice of Comfort
Picture pulling this pizza fresh from the oven, the cheese bubbling and the BBQ sauce caramelizing slightly on the edges. As you take a bite, the crispy crust, melty cheese, and smoky chicken create the perfect harmony of flavors. It’s the kind of pizza that makes you savor every slice, turning any meal into a special occasion.
Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or enjoying a solo pizza night, BBQ Chicken Pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This pizza is great for a fun dinner, a laid-back weekend meal, or even a party appetizer. It’s easy to make and always a favorite at gatherings. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings to make it your own!
Ingredient Notes
Olive Oil: Brushed onto the crust for a golden, crispy texture and added flavor during baking.
Yellow Cornmeal: Sprinkled on the pizza stone or baking sheet to prevent sticking while giving the crust a slight crunch.
Pizza Dough: The foundation of the pizza, providing a chewy, flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the toppings.
BBQ Sauce: Acts as the pizza’s sauce, delivering a smoky, tangy-sweet flavor that complements the chicken.
Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and flavorful protein option, perfectly tender and infused with BBQ sauce.
Shredded Smoked Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the BBQ theme.
Shredded Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese: Provides creaminess and a melty texture that ties the toppings together.
Diced Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the dish.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro Leaves: A fresh, herbal garnish that adds a burst of color and a hint of brightness to the pizza.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs perfectly with:
A crisp side salad with ranch or balsamic dressing for a fresh contrast.
Garlic knots or breadsticks for extra indulgence.
A light coleslaw with a tangy dressing to complement the smoky flavors.
A cold drink like lemonade, iced tea, or a craft beer to balance the richness.
Tips for Pizza Perfection
Use a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet: This ensures a crispy, evenly cooked crust.
Don’t overload the toppings: A balanced ratio of sauce, chicken, and cheese keeps the pizza from getting soggy.
Customize your cheese blend: A mix of mozzarella, smoked gouda, and cheddar adds extra depth.
Drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top: This enhances the smoky-sweet flavor in every bite.
A Pizza That Steals the Show
BBQ Chicken Pizza is proof that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. With its sweet, smoky, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that brings people together, turning any gathering into a celebration. Whether homemade or store-bought dough, this pizza is always a winner—one bite, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for so many!
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough homemade or store-bought
- ¼ cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 cups leftover shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup shredded smoked cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 10 Tbsp BBQ sauce such as Stubb’s Original BBQ Sauce
- 3 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and get your baking sheet or pizza pan ready by giving it a light coat of olive oil.
- Sprinkle some cornmeal over your work surface, then roll out your pizza dough into a nice 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough onto your prepared baking sheet or pizza pan.
- Using a small ladle (or the back of a spoon), spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges for that perfect crust.
- Now it’s time to pile on the toppings! Add the chicken, both kinds of cheese, and sliced onion. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Pop your pizza into the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is beautifully melted.
- Serve it hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with friends!
