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.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.