Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza is the ultimate fusion of comfort food and bold, smoky barbecue flavor. This irresistible homemade pizza combines a golden, crispy crust with tangy BBQ sauce, tender pieces of chicken, gooey melted cheese, and zesty red onions. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet.

Ideal for casual dinners, movie nights, or when you’re simply craving a creative twist on classic pizza, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re a barbecue fan or a pizza purist looking to shake things up, this mouthwatering mash-up delivers satisfaction in every bite.

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Why This BBQ Chicken Pizza Will Be Your New Favorite

There are so many reasons to love this flavorful recipe—it’s a quick, delicious solution for weeknight meals, and the savory blend of textures and spices makes every slice totally crave-worthy.

• Layered with bold flavors – The tangy kick of barbecue sauce complements melty cheese and smoky chicken, creating a satisfying flavor combo.
• Completely customizable – You can add your favorite toppings or try different cheese blends for a pizza that suits your palate.
• Great use for leftovers – Got extra rotisserie chicken or baked chicken breasts? This pizza is the perfect way to repurpose them.
• Quick and easy – It takes less than 30 minutes to make from start to finish, especially if you use store-bought dough.
• Crowd-pleaser – Whether it’s a family meal, game day, or casual get-together, everyone will be reaching for a second slice.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce (plus more for optional drizzling)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, either shredded or chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for added richness and flavor)
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Olive oil (for brushing the crust)
• Cornmeal or all-purpose flour (for dusting your baking surface)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Oven and Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating for an ultra-crispy crust. On a lightly floured surface (or cornmeal-dusted parchment), roll your dough out into a 12-inch round or your desired shape.

2. Add the Base Flavors

Transfer your dough to a baking sheet or preheated stone. Lightly brush olive oil around the outer edge of the crust. This helps it crisp up and achieve a beautiful golden hue. Then, spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about ½ inch border to form the crust.

3. Top It Off

Toss your cooked chicken with a tablespoon or two of barbecue sauce for extra flavor before scattering it over the pizza. Follow with a generous layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then evenly distribute the thinly sliced red onions.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is fully melted, and the edges have puffed up.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly for easier slicing. If you like, drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce over the top and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

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Serving Suggestions & Timings

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe makes one large pizza—perfect for sharing with family or friends. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some seasoned sweet potato fries for a hearty, satisfying meal.

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Variations to Try

🔥 Spice It Up

Add a handful of sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot honey before baking for an extra kick.

🍍 Add a Sweet Twist

Toss on some pineapple chunks for a tropical BBQ chicken pizza with a sweet and savory combo.

🧀 Mix Up the Cheese

While mozzarella and cheddar are a classic pair, you can substitute or mix in smoked gouda, provolone, or even Monterey Jack for deeper, richer flavor.

🍄 Go Vegetarian

Skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms, grilled zucchini, or bell peppers to create a satisfying plant-based version.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover slices (which is rare with a pizza this good), store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Oven: Place the slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.
• Stovetop: Heat in a covered skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to restore its texture without drying out the toppings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What’s the best chicken to use?

Any cooked chicken works well. Rotisserie chicken is especially convenient and flavorful, but grilled or baked chicken breast or thigh meat will also work great.

❓ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes! Store-bought dough is a time-saver and works perfectly. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.

❓ What kind of barbecue sauce should I choose?

That depends on your taste preferences. Go for sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy—whatever you love. Just make sure it’s a thick, flavorful sauce that will hold up during baking.

❓ Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the dough and toppings ahead, then assemble just before baking. If needed, refrigerate the prepared pizza for up to a few hours before cooking.

❓ What other cheeses can I try?

Try adding smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a touch of blue cheese if you want something bold and unique.

❓ Is this pizza freezer-friendly?

Yes. Assemble the pizza (uncooked), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook it straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

❓ How can I get a crispy crust?

Preheat your baking surface (stone, steel, or sheet pan) before baking. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with sauce or toppings which can make the dough soggy.

❓ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free pizza dough from the store or your favorite homemade version.

❓ What can I use instead of red onions?

Try white or yellow onions for a milder flavor, or shallots for a touch of sweetness.

❓ Can I grill this pizza?

Definitely! Grill the pizza over indirect heat for a beautifully smoky crust and flavor. Use a pizza stone or a grill-safe pan for best results.

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Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Pizza is more than just a pizza—it’s a flavor-packed masterpiece that delivers the smoky, cheesy, tangy satisfaction you didn’t know you were missing. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, sparks conversation, and disappears from the plate in record time.

With its customizable ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious. Give it a try this week and elevate your homemade pizza nights to a whole new level.