Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When I think about BBQ recipes that truly stand out, BBQ Chicken Pizza always comes to mind. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
The combination of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melted cheese on a crispy crust creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite toppings!
Whether you’re hosting a game night or a family dinner, BBQ Chicken Pizza never fails to impress. Trust me; once you make it, you’ll want to enjoy it again and again!
Ingredients of BBQ Chicken Pizza
When it comes to making BBQ Chicken Pizza, having the right ingredients is the first step to success. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the delicious combination of flavors. You’ll be working with juicy chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melty cheese, all layered on a crispy crust. Trust me, once you gather all these ingredients, the anticipation of that first bite will have you drooling.
So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering pizza.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Pizza:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 1/4 cups barbecue sauce
- 1 prepared pizza crust
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dry basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup four-cheese Mexican blend cheese or 1 cup pizza cheese
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
Now, as you gather these ingredients, think about any personal touches you might want to add. Maybe you love a little kick—if that’s the case, some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes could bring that heat you crave.
Or perhaps you’re a veggie lover? Toss on some bell peppers or fresh cilantro after baking for that extra pop of flavor. The great thing about BBQ Chicken Pizza is its flexibility; it can easily adapt to fit your taste buds.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza
Making BBQ Chicken Pizza isn’t just a cooking task; it’s an experience that can fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with anticipation.
To kick things off, you’ll want to prepare your homemade pizza sauce. Grab that can of diced tomatoes (15 ounces) and mix it up in a medium bowl with 1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of dry basil. This blend is going to be your flavor base, so stir it well and set it aside.
Now, in a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in 2 tablespoons of diced garlic and about a third of that diced onion (let’s say around a third of a medium onion). Cook until it’s fragrant and the onions are soft, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Ah, the smell of sautéing garlic is like a warm hug, isn’t it?
Once that’s done, mix it into your tomato concoction and give it a good stir. That’s your pizza sauce, and trust me, it’s going to make your pizza sing.
Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the chicken. Take those 2 large chicken breasts and dice them into medium-sized squares. You want them to cook evenly and be easy to bite into later.
In the same saucepan (because who wants to wash extra dishes?), cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s thoroughly cooked—about 7-10 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 1/4 cups of BBQ sauce. Feel free to lick a spoon (just don’t tell anyone) because this mixture is seriously good.
Now, it’s time to assemble that pizza. Grab your prepared pizza crust and spread the pizza sauce evenly over it, leaving a little room at the edges for that crispy crust. Then, scatter that delicious BBQ chicken and the remaining diced onion over the sauce.
Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of four-cheese Mexican blend cheese (or your preferred pizza cheese) generously on top. It’s okay if it looks a little cheesy—who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Now comes the best part: baking. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and slide that pizza in. You’ll want to keep an eye on it for about 12 to 15 minutes. The goal here is for the cheese to melt beautifully and bubble up, creating that golden, gooey layer we all dream about.
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set a bit, and trust me, no one wants to burn their mouth on molten cheese.
Slice it up and prepare for the compliments. You did it! You’ve made a BBQ Chicken Pizza that not only tastes amazing but also brings everyone together. So, dig in and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your BBQ Chicken Pizza, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate your creation.
For a twist, try swapping chicken for pulled pork or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different cheeses; a sharp cheddar adds a nice kick.
Instead of classic BBQ sauce, a spicy chipotle or tangy honey BBQ can change the flavor profile entirely.
Add toppings like red onions, jalapeños, or even pineapple for a sweet-savory combo.
Don’t hesitate to get creative—your pizza will thank you!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that enhance its flavors.
I love serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The crunch and brightness of the veggies perfectly balance the pizza’s richness.
Another favorite is coleslaw; its creamy texture adds a delightful contrast.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread complements the pizza nicely.
For a revitalizing drink, I’ve found that a cold lemonade or iced tea can be the perfect accompaniment.
Each of these sides elevates the BBQ Chicken Pizza experience, making it even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your BBQ Chicken Pizza, keep in mind a few tips that can elevate the dish.
First, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for extra flavor before cooking. If you like a kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
For a crispy crust, pre-bake the pizza crust for a few minutes before adding toppings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses; a smoked cheese can add depth.
Finally, let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes after baking—this helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy your delicious creation!