This BBQ Chicken Pizza combines the bold flavors of juicy BBQ chicken, creamy mozzarella, and a touch of smoked gouda for extra depth. Quick to make, it's a savory option for pizza night.
If you’re a fan of both BBQ and pizza, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is the ultimate treat! With juicy BBQ-coated chicken, melty mozzarella, and a hint of smokiness from gouda, it’s a delicious fusion of flavors perfect for pizza night.
INGREDIENTS
- Pizza crust: 1 pre-made crust or homemade for a fresh base.
- BBQ sauce: 1/2 cup of your favorite brand, adding tangy flavor to the pizza.
- Cooked chicken: 1 cup, shredded or cubed, for a hearty topping.
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded, for a melty, creamy layer.
- Red onion: 1/2 cup, thinly sliced, adding a bit of sharpness.
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional) for a bright, zesty touch.
- Smoked gouda: 1/4 cup, shredded (optional), for added smokiness.
- Olive oil: For brushing the crust, creating a crispy finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a crispy crust.
- Step 2: Prep the Chicken
- Toss the cooked, shredded or cubed chicken in 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce until it’s evenly coated for full flavor.
- Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Base
- Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup BBQ sauce evenly over the crust as the base layer of flavor.
- Step 4: Add Cheese and Toppings
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the BBQ sauce. Add the BBQ-coated chicken, red onions, and smoked gouda (if using). Finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a nice, even melt.
- Step 5: Bake the Pizza
- Bake the assembled pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor, if desired. Slice and serve hot.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this BBQ Chicken Pizza hot, right out of the oven, for the best melted cheese and smoky flavor combination.
- If you’re hosting a party, slice the pizza into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet to keep the crust crispy.
Helpful Notes
- For extra heat, drizzle a bit of spicy BBQ sauce on top or add sliced jalapeños before baking.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, use smoked gouda or smoked mozzarella as part of the cheese topping.
- Homemade crust can add a unique touch, but store-bought crust keeps it quick and easy for busy nights.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests brushing the crust with olive oil for added crispiness and flavor.
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using a pizza stone if available to achieve a perfectly crispy base.
- For an added twist, Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests finishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil, to complement the BBQ flavors.