Barbecue Chicken Pizza

Name: Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Highlighted under: Hearty Food | Big Meals

I absolutely love making Barbecue Chicken Pizza at home! The combination of smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese never fails to impress. Every time I bake this pizza, the aroma fills my kitchen, and it brings everyone rushing to the table. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner. Plus, you can tailor toppings to your taste! I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you.

Created by

The Chefmatttastes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-18T16:35:35.619Z

When I first tried Barbecue Chicken Pizza, I was instantly hooked on the unique flavor profile. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the chicken perfectly, and the cheese adds a wonderful creaminess that ties everything together. A secret trick I learned is to pre-cook the chicken slightly; it ensures it stays tender and juicy when the pizza bakes.

I've experimented with different toppings over time, but I always return to the classic combination of red onions and cilantro for a fresh crunch. This pizza is not just delicious; it also makes for a fun family cooking night that everyone can enjoy!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Smoky barbecue flavor with tender chicken bites
Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or casual gatherings
Customizable toppings to suit everyone’s taste

Perfecting the Dough

The pizza dough serves as the foundation of this Barbecue Chicken Pizza, influencing both its texture and flavor. When rolling out the dough, consider keeping it slightly thicker along the edges to create a sturdy crust that can hold up to the toppings. If you have time, let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes after kneading; this relaxes the gluten, resulting in a softer, more pliable base. Flour your surface generously to prevent sticking, and don't be afraid to use your hands to shape it if you're aiming for a more rustic look.

Dough temperature plays a crucial role in how it bakes. If your kitchen is warm, the dough may rise too quickly, leading to a chewy crust. For a consistent bake, make sure your dough is chilled before using. If you bought pre-made dough, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling; this helps achieve an even cook throughout.

Choosing Quality Toppings

The choice of barbecue sauce can make or break your pizza. A smoky, rich sauce will add depth, while a sweeter sauce will provide a contrasting flavor profile. If you're looking to create a spicier version, consider adding some hot sauce to the barbecue mix or using a chipotle-flavored sauce for a kick. When it comes to chicken, leftovers work perfectly, but ensure your chicken is shredded uniformly to ensure even distribution on the pizza.

Don't forget about the importance of cheese! Mozzarella is a staple for its meltability and stretch, but blending it with a little cheddar can enhance the flavor profile. Cheese should be spread evenly to avoid areas of excess melt or dryness. For added flavor, try mixing in some crumbled feta or even dollops of cream cheese on top for a twist.

Ingredients

Pizza Dough

1 pound pizza dough

Barbecue Chicken Topping

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

Prepare the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape.

Add Barbecue Sauce

Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Top with Chicken and Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded chicken on top of the sauce followed by the mozzarella cheese and red onions.

Bake the Pizza

Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, slice, and serve hot!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pizza, store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the pizza to cool to room temperature before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, as this prevents moisture from making the crust soggy. Alternatively, placing it in an airtight container works well. Barbecue Chicken Pizza can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating is key to enjoying your leftover pizza. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the crust chewy rather than crunchy.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your pizza toppings! Adding grilled bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness or jalapeños for some heat can elevate your Barbecue Chicken Pizza to the next level. You can even switch out the chicken for pulled pork or smoked tofu for a vegetarian option, ensuring you still capture that smoky flavor you love.

Experiment with different cheeses beyond mozzarella. A blend of gouda and smoked cheddar can lend a rich, smoky flavor that complements the barbecue sauce. For a tangy twist, consider adding dollops of goat cheese or ricotta before baking, giving your pizza a delightful creaminess and flavor contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and will work perfectly for this recipe.

→ What type of barbecue sauce is best?

Choose a sauce that you enjoy; sweet or tangy varieties complement the chicken well.

→ Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza up to the baking point, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be frozen for up to 2 months.