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.

Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza The Ultimate Easy Recipe

Name: Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza: A Sensational Twist on a Time-Honored Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American Italian
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

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

Scale

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