BBQ Chicken Pizza: Tangy, Smoky, and Savory

Photo bygrandma magic recipes

If you’re a fan of both BBQ and pizza, then you’re in for a treat with this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Pizza. It’s a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this pizza is a winner. With a balance of juicy chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, melty cheese, and a hint of smokiness from optional smoked gouda, this pizza is a real crowd-pleaser.

The BBQ Chicken Pizza You’ve Been Waiting For

There’s something special about BBQ Chicken Pizza that just works. The combination of tender chicken soaked in tangy barbecue sauce, paired with gooey mozzarella cheese, creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat. Add some crisp red onions for a little bite and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness, and you’ve got a pizza that’s not only delicious but packed with layers of flavors.

This BBQ Chicken Pizza is perfect for anyone who loves big, bold tastes. The barbecue sauce brings a nice sweet and tangy kick, while the smoked gouda, if you choose to include it, adds a rich, smoky depth that makes the pizza even more irresistible. It's the perfect pizza for anyone looking to break away from the standard pizza toppings and try something with a little extra zing.

How to Make the Best BBQ Chicken Pizza

To make this pizza, you’ll need some basic ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Using pre-made pizza dough makes the process super quick and easy, but if you prefer homemade, that works just as well.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
• 1/4 cup shredded smoked gouda (optional, for extra smokiness)
• Olive oil (for brushing the crust)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prep the chicken: Toss your cooked chicken with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce until it's well coated, ensuring each piece is packed with flavor.
3. Assemble the pizza: Place your pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce evenly across the crust, creating the perfect base for your pizza.
4. Add the toppings: Start by sprinkling half of your mozzarella cheese over the BBQ sauce. Then layer on the BBQ chicken, sliced red onions, and, if you’re using it, the smoked gouda for that extra burst of smokiness. Finish by topping it off with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. The crust should be perfectly crispy.
6. Finish with cilantro: Once your pizza is out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. This step is optional, but it adds a great zesty touch.
7. Slice and enjoy: Now your BBQ Chicken Pizza is ready to serve. Cut it into slices and get ready to indulge in the delicious, smoky, tangy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Pizza

What sets this BBQ Chicken Pizza apart is how easy it is to make while delivering such complex and rich flavors. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or someone who’s just looking for a quick dinner solution, this pizza is simple enough to make any night of the week. The combination of barbecue sauce, melty cheese, and juicy chicken is satisfying, and the optional smoked gouda takes it up a notch with its subtle smokiness.

This recipe also leaves room for customization—whether you like to add extra toppings, experiment with different barbecue sauces, or keep things simple with just a handful of ingredients, this pizza is versatile enough to adapt to your tastes.

One bite, and you’ll see why BBQ Chicken Pizza is a favorite for pizza lovers everywhere. Whether it's the bold flavor of the barbecue sauce or the gooey melted cheese that grabs your attention, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes.

Sources:

1. Serious Eats BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
2. The Kitchn BBQ Chicken Pizza
3. Food Network's BBQ Chicken Pizza
4. Bon Appétit Pizza Tips
5. Simply Recipes BBQ Chicken Pizza