BBQ Chicken Pizza
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Introduction
Looking for a delicious homemade pizza recipe that combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors? This BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect solution for satisfying your pizza cravings. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and is sure to become a favorite for pizza night at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pizza Dough:
Use your favorite store-bought or homemade pizza dough.
BBQ Sauce:
About 1/4 to 1/3 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce.
Cooked Chicken:
1/2 to 2/3 cup of cooked and shredded or diced chicken.
Cheese:
1 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
Red Onion:
Thin slices of red onion for a tangy crunch.
Fresh Cilantro:
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish.
Prep Time
This BBQ Chicken Pizza can be prepped in under 10 minutes. Start by preheating your oven and preparing a pizza pan or baking sheet. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, shred or dice it into small pieces, and if necessary, warm it up with a bit of BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: The pizza should bake for about 10 minutes in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Total Time: From start to finish, this recipe will take approximately 20 minutes, making it a great option for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Yield: This recipe creates a single 12-inch pizza, serving about 2-4 people depending on appetite and the sides you pair it with.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Pizza Dough
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and ensure your oven rack is positioned in the middle.
2. If using refrigerated dough, let it rest at room temperature for around 30 minutes to make it easier to work with. Prepare your pizza pan or baking sheet by lightly greasing it or dusting it with flour/cornmeal.
3. Stretch or roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle or desired shape and place it onto the prepared pan.
Prepare the Chicken
1. Cook chicken on the stovetop or bake it until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Dice or shred the chicken into small pieces once cooled slightly.
2. Toss the cooked chicken with about 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce to coat thoroughly and set aside.
Assemble the Pizza
1. Spread 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over your pizza dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the edges for the crust.
2. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the BBQ sauce.
3. Evenly distribute the prepared chicken over the cheese layer.
4. Add thinly sliced red onion and additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, if desired.
Bake the Pizza
1. Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
Final Touches
1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Slice and serve immediately.
Notes
On Chicken Preparation
You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time. Simply shred the chicken and toss it in BBQ sauce.
On BBQ Sauce
Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor. Sweet, smoky, or spicy BBQ sauces work well.
On Pizza Crust
Store-bought pizza dough is convenient, but you can also use homemade dough or a pre-baked crust for quicker prep.
On Baking
For a crisper crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or steel instead of a traditional pan.
On Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
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Cook Techniques
Pre-bake the Pizza Crust
Pre-baking the pizza crust ensures a firm and crispy base that holds up well to toppings. This step should not be skipped for best results.
Prepare BBQ Chicken
Toss cooked and shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. This allows the flavors to meld seamlessly before adding to the pizza.
Layer Toppings Strategically
Layer the toppings in the following order: barbecue sauce, cheese, BBQ chicken, and additional toppings. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures.
Use a Hot Oven
Bake the pizza in a hot oven to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping. High heat is key to a perfect crust and melted toppings.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works great for this recipe and saves time. Ensure it is pre-baked according to the instructions.
What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?
Use your favorite barbecue sauce. If you prefer a smoky or sweet barbecue flavor, choose a sauce that matches your taste.
Can I make this pizza on a grill?
Yes, you can grill this pizza instead of baking. Pre-cook the crust slightly and then finish cooking on the grill until the cheese melts and crust crisps.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly. Mozzarella works best, but you can mix it with cheddar, provolone, or your preferred cheese for a unique flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or on a skillet for best results.
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Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delightful combination of bold flavors and a unique twist that is sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this homemade pizza will elevate your culinary game with its smoky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza
Combine the rich and savory flavors of pepperoni and sausage for a classic twist on pizza night. Add your favorite veggies like onions and bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Swap out BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and pair it with chopped chicken breast and ranch or blue cheese dressing for a spicy and tangy pizza option.
Vegetarian Delight Pizza
Create a pizza packed with fresh vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, olives, and artichokes. Use mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil for a lighter yet flavorful choice.
Hawaiian Pizza
Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of pineapple and ham. Add some crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor and crunch on a classic favorite.
White Garlic Chicken Pizza
Swap out red sauce for a creamy garlic white sauce, topped with chicken, spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a gourmet dinner at home.
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