Looking for a delicious twist on traditional pizza? This BBQ chicken pizza recipe is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender pieces of chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, fresh red onions, and melted cheese atop a crispy crust. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this pizza is simple to make and utterly delectable. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this tasty dish!
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pizza dough
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Olive oil for brushing
Servings and Cooking Time
This BBQ chicken pizza recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of BBQ chicken pizza contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fat: 12g
(Note: values are based on a single serving.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
3. Transfer the dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet.
4. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil to prevent sogginess.
5. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated.
6. Spread the barbecue chicken mixture evenly over the pizza dough.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
8. Add thinly sliced red onions for a bit of crunch and flavor.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
10. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing.
Alternative Ingredients
For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat pizza dough. You can also substitute grilled chicken for the shredded chicken and use a low-sugar barbecue sauce to reduce calories.
Serving and Pairings
This BBQ chicken pizza pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or coleslaw. For drinks, serve it with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This pizza can also be frozen for up to a month; just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overload on the barbecue sauce; too much can make the pizza soggy.
– Avoid using cold dough; let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
– If using a baking sheet, ensure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking.
– Pre-bake the crust for a few minutes if you like a crispier base.
– Make sure to slice the onions thinly for even cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor.
– Use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
– Add jalapeños for a spicy kick if you enjoy heat.
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for a few hours before using.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can enhance the flavor and texture of your pizza.
What type of barbecue sauce is best?
A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce works best for this recipe. Choose one that you enjoy!
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower crust as a substitute for regular dough.
Can I add vegetables to this pizza?
Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when the pizza is done?
The pizza is ready when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Conclusion
This BBQ chicken pizza recipe is an easy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress friends and family alike. With its combination of savory chicken, tangy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a delightful meal for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Transfer the dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
- Mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a bowl.
- Spread the barbecue chicken mixture evenly over the pizza dough.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Add thinly sliced red onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing.
