BBQ Chicken Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Crowd-Pleaser

BBQ Chicken Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Crowd-Pleaser

Key Info:

Prep Time: 10-20 minutes

Cook Time: 10-20 minutes

Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Servings: 3-4

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

Dietary: Standard (Adaptable to GF/Vegetarian)

Equipment Needed:

• Oven
• Pizza pan or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients:

Pizza Dough

• 1 pizza dough (12-14″ size)

For Chicken Topping:

• 1-1.5 cups cooked chicken (breast/thigh)
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper (optional)

Cheese Blend:

• 1.5-2 cups mozzarella cheese
• 1/2-1 cup smoked gouda
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro
• Green onions
• Jalapeño slices

Pro Tips:

• Always toss chicken in BBQ sauce before topping
• Layer cheese under and over chicken
• Pre-bake crust for extra crispiness

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425-450°F
2. Roll out pizza dough on pan
3. Spread thin BBQ sauce layer, leaving 1″ border
4. Sprinkle first cheese layer
5. Add BBQ-coated chicken evenly
6. Top with red onion slices
7. Add remaining cheese
8. Bake 10-15 minutes until cheese bubbles
9. Garnish with cilantro
10. Slice and serve immediately

Crucial Tips:

• Avoid overloading with sauce
• Ensure chicken reaches 165°F
• Use thin crust for crispiest result

Storage:

• Refrigerate 3 days
• Reheat in oven at 350°F
• Can freeze individual slices

Variations:

• Swap cheeses
• Add vegetables
• Try ranch drizzle
• Make gluten-free version

Nutrition Highlight:

Per slice: 220-320 calories

High protein

Good calcium source

Cooking Notes:

• Homemade dough recommended
• Can adapt for grill cooking
• Great for meal prep