🍕 Barbecue Chicken Pizza Recipe: A Sweet, Smoky Twist on a Classic
There’s something magical about a pizza that breaks the rules. And for me, that rebel pie is always the barbecue chicken pizza. It’s bold. It’s saucy. It’s a little sweet, a little smoky, and totally irresistible.
This barbecue chicken pizza recipe is the one I’ve honed over years of experimentation. I started making it back when I had leftover grilled chicken and no marinara in sight. One swipe of BBQ sauce later, I was hooked. And now? It’s one of the most requested pizzas in my house.
With tender shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, zingy red onion, and a crispy crust kissed by char, this pizza is the definition of crave-worthy.
Whether you’re throwing a party, using up leftovers, or just craving something out of the ordinary, this pie delivers.
Let’s get into it.
🧲 Ingredients for Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought) | 1 ball (about 12 oz) |
| Cooked chicken (shredded) | 1 to 1.5 cups |
| Barbecue sauce | 1/2 cup + extra for drizzle |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | 1/4 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 to 1.5 cups |
| Smoked Gouda (optional) | 1/2 cup, shredded |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh cilantro (for topping) | A small handful, chopped |
| Cornmeal or flour (for dusting) | As needed |
Tip: Use a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce. I love hickory-style or homemade bourbon BBQ for extra depth.
🌟 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Crank your oven to 475°F (245°C) and if you’ve got a pizza stone or steel, throw it in there to preheat. You want that surface screaming hot.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
- Lightly flour your surface and roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch round.
- Place it on parchment or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.
Step 3: Layer the Sauce and Chicken
- Spread 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edge.
- Toss the shredded chicken with a bit of BBQ sauce and scatter it across the base.
Step 4: Cheese It Up
- Sprinkle on the mozzarella first, then follow with smoked Gouda if you’re using it.
- Add the red onion slices evenly across the top.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
- Slide your pizza onto the hot stone or place the baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly with a few golden spots.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness
- Drizzle with a little extra BBQ sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro.
Slice. Serve. Watch it disappear.
💪 Tips & Tricks for the Best BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Use rotisserie chicken. It’s quick, tender, and perfect for this recipe.
- Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that prevent perfect meltiness.
- Preheat the oven fully. A screaming hot oven makes the crust puff and crisp beautifully.
- Don’t overload. Too much sauce or cheese can make the center soggy. Keep it balanced.
- Try grilled dough. In summer, grill the crust first, then add toppings and finish under the broiler.
🎓 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, especially if you’re short on time. Just make sure to prebake it if the package recommends.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for pizza?
Go for something thick and tangy with a little sweetness. I love Kansas City-style or homemade bourbon BBQ sauce.
Is smoked Gouda necessary?
No, but it adds an extra smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the barbecue theme.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Par-bake the crust with sauce and toppings for 5 minutes, then refrigerate. Finish baking just before serving.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Use a skillet or toaster oven to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving—it softens everything.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Pizza That Plays By Its Own Rules
This barbecue chicken pizza recipe is what happens when comfort food gets a little rebellious. It breaks from tradition, but it still respects the essentials: bold flavor, crave-worthy texture, and that soul-satisfying experience only good pizza delivers.
I love how versatile this pie is. Switch up the cheese, throw on some jalapeños, go heavy on the onions or light on the sauce—make it yours.
One thing’s for sure: once you make this, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your pizza night rotation.
See Also: Veggie Pizza Recipe with Crescent Rolls – Easy, Colorful & Crowd-Pleasing!
Vinit Hirave is a passionate content writer for Pizzetteria Brunetti. A true pizza enthusiast, Vinit’s love for authentic flavors goes beyond the keyboard—he has hands-on experience working in a pizza shop, giving him a deep understanding of what makes a perfect slice. Through his writing, he shares stories, tips, and insights that reflect both his industry knowledge and his genuine affection for the art of pizza-making.