Indulge in the delightful flavors of BBQ chicken pizza, a perfect fusion of smoky, sweet, and savory. This recipe brings together tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese on a crispy crust. It’s an ideal dish for gatherings, family dinners, or a casual night in. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this irresistible pizza that is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pizza crust
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– Olive oil (for brushing)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one slice of pizza.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out the pre-made pizza crust on a floured surface.
3. Transfer the crust to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
4. Brush the crust lightly with olive oil.
5. Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border.
6. Mix shredded chicken with a bit of BBQ sauce.
7. Distribute the chicken mixture over the sauce.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
9. Add thin slices of red onion for extra flavor.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and crust is golden.
11. Remove from oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, slice, and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza crust. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
BBQ chicken pizza pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or coleslaw. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a light dipping sauce on the side for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This pizza can also be frozen; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overloading the pizza with toppings; it may not cook evenly.
– Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking.
– Don’t skip the olive oil on the crust for a crispy texture.
– Use a pizza stone for better heat distribution.
– Let the pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing to avoid a messy cut.
– Experiment with sauce amounts to find your preferred flavor level.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Experiment with different BBQ sauces for unique taste combinations.
– Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
– Try drizzling ranch dressing on top before serving.
– Always taste your sauce before applying it to the pizza.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ sauce saves time and can be just as delicious as homemade. Choose your favorite brand for the best results.
What type of cheese is best for BBQ chicken pizza?
Mozzarella is the traditional choice, but adding cheddar or gouda can enhance the flavor. A mix of cheeses works well too!
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is BBQ chicken pizza spicy?
It depends on the BBQ sauce used. Sweet sauces are mild, while those labeled as spicy will add heat. Adjust based on your taste preference.
How can I make this pizza healthier?
Opt for a whole wheat crust, use less cheese, and add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Conclusion
BBQ chicken pizza is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a fun twist on traditional pizza. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for a meal that will satisfy both family and friends alike!
BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out the pre-made pizza crust on a floured surface.
- Transfer the crust to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Brush the crust lightly with olive oil.
- Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border.
- Mix shredded chicken with a bit of BBQ sauce.
- Distribute the chicken mixture over the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Add thin slices of red onion for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and crust is golden.
- Remove from oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, slice, and serve.
