Easy BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe: Quick 35-Minute Family Dinner Delight

Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe – A Family Favorite

Looking for the ultimate bbq chicken pizza recipe that will have your family asking for seconds? This homemade version delivers all the smoky-sweet flavors you love, with tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and a perfect blend of cheeses. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Pizza

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite toppings
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet-savory flavor combination
• Perfect for leftovers: Great way to use up leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken

Ingredients for the Best BBQ Chicken Pizza

• 1 (12-inch) pre-baked pizza crust
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
• 1 cup Colby-Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza at Home

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer a crispier crust, heat to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the pre-baked pizza crust on a pizza pan or baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix the diced chicken with 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
4. Spread the remaining 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the pizza crust, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edge for a crust.
5. Sprinkle half of the Colby-Jack cheese over the sauce.
6. Distribute the barbecue chicken evenly across the pizza.
7. Add the sliced red onions and pepperoncini peppers.
8. Sprinkle with garlic powder and red pepper flakes if using.
9. Top with the remaining cheese.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
12. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Pizza

• For the chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly, or grill your own for extra smoky flavor.
• Sauce selection: Choose a barbecue sauce with a flavor profile you love—sweet, spicy, or smoky will all work beautifully.
• Cheese options: While Colby-Jack is recommended, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend.
• Crust hack: Brush the outer edge of your crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt before baking for extra flavor.

Customize Your BBQ Chicken Pizza

One of the best things about making pizza at home is the ability to customize! Here are some delicious variations to try:

Topping Variations

• Southwest style: Add black beans, corn, and avocado after baking
• Hawaiian twist: Include pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory combination
• Bacon lover’s: Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top for extra smokiness
• Veggie packed: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes

Crust Options

• Store-bought thin crust for a crispier texture
• Homemade whole wheat crust for a healthier twist
• Cauliflower crust for a low-carb alternative

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This BBQ chicken pizza pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some ranch dressing for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside:

• Garden salad with light vinaigrette
• Garlic breadsticks
• Roasted vegetables
• Cold beer or lemonade

Storage tip: Leftover pizza will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes for best results, or use an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore the crispy texture.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1/8 of pizza):

• Calories: 385 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 58mg
• Sodium: 1666mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 9g

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Pizza

Can I make this BBQ chicken pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble just before baking. Alternatively, you can fully bake the pizza, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for pizza?

For the most flavorful chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then grill or bake until just cooked through. Alternatively, a store-bought rotisserie chicken provides great flavor and convenience.

Can I freeze this pizza?

Yes! Bake the pizza, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven until hot and crispy.

How can I make this healthier?

Use a whole wheat or cauliflower crust, reduce the cheese by half, load up on vegetables, and choose a lower-sugar barbecue sauce.

Next time you’re craving pizza with a twist, give this delicious bbq chicken pizza recipe a try. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese creates a flavor experience that’s sure to become a new family favorite!