This BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect combination of smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, red onions, and gooey cheese—all baked on a golden, crispy crust.
It’s an easy weeknight favorite that tastes just like your favorite pizzeria’s version!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Pizza
Bold Flavor Combo: Sweet BBQ sauce meets melty cheese and savory chicken
Better than Takeout: Quick, easy, and fresh at home
Customizable: Add bacon, pineapple, or different cheeses
Family Favorite: Kid-friendly and party-ready
Prep-Friendly: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped
Mozzarella Cheese: Classic pizza melt
Smoked Gouda or Cheddar: Adds depth and creaminess
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a fresh crunch
Fresh Cilantro: Optional for garnish
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use Room-Temperature Dough: Easier to stretch without tearing
Preheat Your Oven with a Pizza Stone or Steel: For a crispy bottom
Use Parchment Paper: To easily transfer the pizza
Don’t Overload with Sauce: Too much = soggy crust
Add Cilantro After Baking: Keeps it fresh and vibrant
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 475°F.
If using a pizza stone or steel, place it inside while the oven heats.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12–14 inch circle on parchment paper.
Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
Add chicken, red onions, and the remaining cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Slide the pizza (with parchment) onto the hot stone or bake on a tray for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Slice and serve hot!
What to Serve It With
Side Caesar salad
Garlic knots or breadsticks
Roasted corn on the cob
Coleslaw or a creamy pasta salad
Iced tea or sparkling lemonade
Variations / Substitutions
Use Flatbread or Naan: For mini pizzas
Swap Chicken for Turkey or Pulled Pork
Add Bacon or Jalapeños: For more flavor
Pineapple Topping: For a sweet and tangy twist
Dairy-Free Cheese: Make it vegan-friendly
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Use oven or skillet to keep crust crispy
Freezer: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely—leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate unbaked pizza up to 1 day ahead.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use one you love—smoky, sweet, or spicy depending on your preference.
Can I grill this pizza?
Yes, grill over indirect heat with a pizza stone for crispy results.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Definitely—let it rest at room temp before shaping.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Pizza is everything you want in a homemade pizza—bold flavor, gooey cheese, crisp crust, and loads of personality.
It’s the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile (and maybe a second slice!).
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 475°F with pizza stone if using.
- Roll/stretch dough into 12–14 inch circle on parchment.
- Spread BBQ sauce. Add half the cheese, then chicken, onions, and rest of cheese.
- Bake 12–15 mins until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with cilantro, slice, and serve hot.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- For extra heat, mix a bit of hot sauce or chipotle into the BBQ sauce.
- No gouda? Use all mozzarella or swap with Monterey Jack.
