This homemade BBQ chicken pizza features a golden crispy crust, smoky-sweet barbecue sauce, tender shredded chicken, sharp red onion, and melted mozzarella, all topped with fresh cilantro. It is a delicious, easy-to-make alternative to takeout that blends Italian tradition with bold American flavors.
Now, let me tell you something. The first time I saw barbecue sauce on pizza, I nearly dropped my wooden spoon. In my house, pizza was sacred. My mamma taught me to make dough by hand, sauce from simmered tomatoes, and toppings that honored our roots. But one Sunday, my grandson brought home a slice from a neighborhood spot, and I could not resist a bite. It was different, yes, but it still had that magic. The crispy base, the rich toppings, the joy of sharing a warm slice around the table.
So I rolled up my sleeves, gave it my own touch, and here it is a recipe that respects tradition while embracing something new.
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Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza: A Sensational Twist on a Time-Honored Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 large pizza (4 servings) 1x
Description
This homemade BBQ chicken pizza is a sweet and smoky twist on a classic. Featuring crispy crust, tangy barbecue sauce, juicy chicken, and melty mozzarella, it is a crowd-pleaser for any pizza night.
Ingredients
Dough for one large pizza
1 and 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus 2–3 tablespoons for the chicken
1/4 large red onion, very thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a pizza stone inside if using. Shape the dough on parchment paper and pre-bake for 6 minutes.
2. Spread barbecue sauce over the crust, leaving a border. Add 1 cup of mozzarella.
3. Toss chicken with a few tablespoons of barbecue sauce and spread over the pizza. Add red onion and remaining mozzarella.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
You can make this pizza ahead by pre-baking the crust and adding toppings, then refrigerating it for up to 24 hours.
Use fully cooked chicken only. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.
Try variations such as bacon, pineapple, jalapeños, or smoked gouda for added flavor.
To reheat, use a skillet or air fryer for a crisp crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Traditional Pizza Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 307
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: homemade BBQ chicken pizza, barbecue pizza, chicken pizza, pizza night
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Restaurant-quality at home
Inspired by the classic California Pizza Kitchen version, this homemade BBQ chicken pizza delivers that signature flavor using ingredients you can find in any local market. - Quick and easy to prepare
With store-bought dough and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights. - Perfectly balanced flavors
The sweetness of the barbecue sauce, the smokiness of the chicken, the sharp bite of red onion, and the creaminess of mozzarella create a flavor profile that satisfies every craving. - Customizable to your taste
You can add bacon, jalapeños, pineapple, or smoked gouda. This pizza is easy to adjust for different palates or occasions. - A crowd-pleaser for any occasion
Whether it is pizza night with family or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is always a hit. Everyone reaches for seconds.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together to create rich, satisfying flavor. Here is what you will need:
For the Dough:
- Dough for one large pizza
(You can use store-bought dough or your favorite homemade recipe. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.)
For the Toppings:
- 1 and 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
(Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds a lovely smoky flavor.) - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
(Use whole milk mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.) - 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, plus 2 to 3 tablespoons for the chicken
(A thick, sweet, and smoky variety such as Sweet Baby Ray’s works beautifully.) - 1/4 large red onion, very thinly sliced
(For that sharp contrast and bit of crunch.) - Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
(Adds a fresh and slightly citrusy finish. Add just before serving.)
How to Make Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
Making this pizza at home is simpler than you might expect. Each step brings you closer to a golden crust, bubbling cheese, and that smoky-sweet finish everyone loves.
1. Preheat and prep the crust
Place a pizza stone in your oven if you have one. Preheat to 450°F (232°C). Roll or stretch the dough onto a piece of parchment paper to form your crust. For a crispier base, pre-bake the crust on the parchment for 6 minutes directly on the oven rack or preheated stone.
2. Sauce the base and layer the cheese
Remove the crust from the oven. Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce across the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle one cup of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
3. Prepare the chicken
In a small bowl, toss the shredded chicken with 2 to 3 tablespoons of barbecue sauce. This helps the chicken stay juicy and adds extra flavor to every bite.
4. Add toppings
Evenly scatter the sauced chicken over the cheese. Add the thinly sliced red onion, then top with the remaining one cup of mozzarella.
5. Bake until golden and bubbly
Carefully slide the pizza (still on the parchment) onto your pizza stone or oven rack. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest for a minute. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro just before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy every bite.
Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
Serving Suggestions:
This homemade BBQ chicken pizza is best enjoyed hot from the oven, when the cheese is melty and the crust is crisp. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with ranch dressing, a crunchy coleslaw, or even a simple corn on the cob for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Leftovers:
If you have slices left over, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat:
To bring back the crispness, skip the microwave. Instead, reheat slices in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F until the cheese is remelted and the crust is warm.
Helpful Notes for Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza
Make-ahead tips:
You can prepare this pizza up to one day in advance. Pre-bake the crust and assemble all the toppings, then cover the pizza tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add 5 to 7 extra minutes in the oven.
Do not use raw chicken:
The pizza bakes quickly, so be sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it. Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works beautifully.
Barbecue sauce matters:
The flavor of your pizza will depend heavily on the sauce you choose. Go for a thicker, sweeter sauce with a bit of smoke. Avoid anything too watery or vinegar-forward unless that is your personal preference.
Variations to try:
- Add crispy cooked bacon for extra depth
- Sprinkle on smoked gouda for a richer cheese blend
- Try sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Add pineapple tidbits if you enjoy a sweet-savory balance
A note from Nonna Lucia:
This recipe may not come from the hills of Tuscany, but it carries the same love and spirit. Good food is not only about tradition but also about joy at the table.
Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza Questions with Surprising Tips
What is the best cheese for homemade BBQ chicken pizza?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for its creamy melt and mild flavor. For more depth, try adding smoked gouda, which enhances the smoky barbecue notes. Monterey Jack is another smooth-melting option that pairs well with the sauce.
Can I use a different kind of barbecue sauce?
Yes. While a traditional sweet and smoky sauce is popular, you can experiment with other styles. Carolina-style mustard-based sauces or a spicier Kansas City blend both bring unique twists to the pizza.
What toppings go well with homemade BBQ chicken pizza?
This pizza is very flexible. Popular additions include:
Cooked bacon for extra richness
Pineapple for a sweet contrast
Sliced jalapeños for heat
Sweet corn for texture and subtle sweetness
Smoked cheeses for added depth
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use a gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust. Be sure to check that your barbecue sauce and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free as well.
Is this homemade BBQ chicken pizza freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the fully assembled, unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. When ready to eat, bake it directly from frozen, adding 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Homemade BBQ chicken pizza may not be a traditional recipe from the old country, but it has earned its place at our table. With its crispy crust, smoky-sweet sauce, and melty cheese, it brings a comforting, flavorful twist to pizza night that even the most loyal marinara lovers will enjoy.
If you are looking for more creative pizza ideas, try our Air Fryer Cheeseburger Pizza or keep things classic with our Easy Margherita Pizza. Both are simple, delicious, and full of Nonna-approved flavor.
Have you made this recipe? I would love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment or share your photos with us on Facebook or Pinterest. Your kitchen stories are what keep ours going.
Now go feed someone you love and save a little slice for yourself too.
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