Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza: A Tangy and Savory Crowd-Pleaser

Ultimate Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza

Creating the perfect bbq pizza at home is easier than you might think! This mouthwatering recipe combines tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese for a restaurant-quality pizza night experience without leaving your kitchen.

Why This BBQ Pizza Recipe Works

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce with savory chicken and cheese. This homemade version lets you control the quality of ingredients while creating a pizza that rivals your favorite restaurant. The contrast between the tangy sauce, spicy peppers, and cooling cilantro creates perfect flavor harmony in every bite.

Equipment You’ll Need for Perfect BBQ Pizza

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin (if making homemade dough)
• Mixing bowls
• Pizza cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons

BBQ Pizza Ingredients

• 1 (12-inch) pre-baked pizza crust (or homemade pizza dough)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand), divided
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
• 2 cups Colby-Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Cheese Options: Mozzarella, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend work great
• Protein Alternatives: Use rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or go vegetarian with roasted cauliflower
• Heat Level: Adjust spice by adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes
• Veggie Additions: Bell peppers, corn, or pineapple make excellent additions
• Sauce Varieties: Try mixing BBQ sauce with ranch or buffalo sauce for unique flavor profiles

How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the diced chicken with 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce until well coated.
3. If using a pre-baked crust, place it on a baking sheet. For homemade dough, roll it out to a 12-inch circle on a floured surface and transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
4. Brush the outer edge of the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder for extra flavor.
5. Spread the remaining barbecue sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
6. Distribute the barbecue chicken evenly over the sauce.
7. Sprinkle the sliced red onion and pepperoncini peppers over the chicken.
8. Evenly cover the pizza with shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
11. Allow the pizza to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Pizza Every Time

• Pre-cook the chicken thoroughly before adding to your pizza to ensure food safety.
• Don’t overload toppings or your pizza may become soggy and difficult to cook through.
• Experiment with different BBQ sauces – honey BBQ, spicy, or smoky varieties all create unique flavor profiles.
• For extra crispy crust, pre-bake your crust for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings.
• Let the pizza rest before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent toppings from sliding off.

What to Serve with BBQ Pizza

This flavorful pizza pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Fresh garden salad with ranch dressing
• Crispy garlic bread sticks
• Coleslaw for a traditional BBQ companion
• Buffalo wings for a complete pizza night experience
• Cold craft beer or lemonade for refreshing beverage options

Storing and Reheating Leftover BBQ Pizza

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep them tasting great:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until hot. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the crust soggy.

Nutrition Information

FAQs About BBQ Pizza

Can I make BBQ pizza without chicken?

Absolutely! BBQ pizza works wonderfully with other proteins like pulled pork, bacon, or plant-based alternatives. You can also make it vegetarian with extra veggies like bell peppers, corn, and caramelized onions.

What’s the best cheese for BBQ pizza?

While this recipe uses Colby-Jack, mozzarella, cheddar, Gouda, or a blend of these cheeses also pair beautifully with barbecue flavors. For a more gourmet pizza, try adding small dollops of cream cheese or goat cheese.

Can I grill my BBQ pizza instead of baking it?

Definitely! Grilling adds an extra smoky dimension that complements the barbecue flavors. Preheat your grill to medium-high, lightly oil the grates, and cook the crust for 2-3 minutes per side before adding toppings. Then return to the grill with the lid closed until cheese melts.

How can I make my own pizza dough for BBQ pizza?

A basic pizza dough recipe combines 3 cups flour, 1 package of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup warm water, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix, knead for 10 minutes, let rise for an hour, then roll out for your pizza.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pizza Recipe

This bbq pizza recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings while maintaining that classic barbecue character. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or enjoying family pizza night, this recipe is sure to become a regular request in your household. The combination of crispy crust, smoky sauce, and melty cheese creates a pizza experience that satisfies every craving!

Recipe inspired by Allrecipes BBQ Chicken Pizza