This BBQ Chicken Pizza brings together smoky flavors, tender chicken, and a perfectly crisp crust for a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.
Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber from onions and jalapeños, it’s a nutritious twist on a comfort food favorite.
With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this pizza is a quick, satisfying choice for weeknights or meal-prep, offering both flavor and wholesome nourishment.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Equipment
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 Skillet (medium size)
- 1 Pizza Pan or Baking Sheet
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 chicken breast boneless, skinless, about ⅔ lb
- ½ tablespoon cooking oil
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough 14–16-inch size
- 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
Instructions
- Season the chicken breast: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until well combined. Place the chicken breast on a plate and sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides, pressing it gently into the surface so it adheres. This coating helps lock in flavor and enhances the taste once cooked.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet: Set a medium skillet over medium heat and let it warm for about a minute. Add the cooking oil and swirl to coat the pan. Place the seasoned chicken breast into the skillet and cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. Flip and cook the other side for another 5–7 minutes, or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest and chop the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean cutting board and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute so the meat stays moist instead of drying out. Once rested, chop the chicken into small bite-sized cubes. Place the pieces in a bowl, add ¼ cup of barbecue sauce, and stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated and glossy.
- Prepare the pizza base: Preheat the oven to 450°F. While the oven heats, place your pizza dough or crust onto a pizza pan or baking sheet. If using fresh dough, gently stretch or roll it into a 14–16 inch circle. Spread ½ cup of barbecue sauce evenly across the surface, leaving a thin border around the edge for the crust. Spread the sauce thinly enough to avoid sogginess but generously enough to flavor each bite.
- Layer the toppings: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the sauced crust. Scatter the barbecue chicken pieces across the surface, spacing them so each slice will be well topped. Add the sliced jalapeños for a touch of heat, if using, and finish with thinly sliced red onions to add sweetness and crunch.
- Bake the pizza: Place the pizza on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely, is bubbling, and is lightly browned in spots, and the crust has turned golden and crisp. Keep a close watch during the final minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Slice and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before cutting—this helps the toppings set and prevents the cheese from sliding. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into 8 even slices. Serve hot and enjoy the smoky, cheesy, tangy flavors of homemade BBQ chicken pizza.
Notes
- You can use homemade, store-bought, or alternative pizza crusts such as gluten-free or cauliflower.
- Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well as a shortcut.
- Monterey Jack cheese can be swapped with mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend for extra flavor.
- Adjust jalapeños to control heat, or skip them for a milder version.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces—smoky, sweet, spicy, or fruity.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Results
The secret to achieving a flavorful BBQ chicken pizza lies in seasoning the chicken before cooking rather than relying solely on the barbecue sauce.
A simple rub of smoked paprika, garlic, and pepper enhances the meat’s natural taste and gives it depth.
Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking is equally important, as this step keeps it juicy and tender once sliced.
When spreading sauce over the dough, use just enough to coat the surface without oversaturating—this prevents a soggy crust.
Finally, bake the pizza on the middle rack of a preheated oven to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the crust crisps up beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
BBQ chicken pizza is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can create a balanced meal.
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce.
For a refreshing touch, consider serving it with coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
If you’re entertaining, complement the smoky flavors with a light appetizer such as grilled corn or stuffed peppers.
When it comes to beverages, sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or even a chilled lager pairs wonderfully with the pizza’s smoky and slightly sweet notes.
Storage Tips for Freshness
If you have leftovers, allow the pizza to cool completely before storing.
Place slices in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to maintain crispness—instead, warm slices in a skillet over medium heat or in a 375°F oven until heated through.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer bag.
Frozen pizza can last up to 2 months, and reheating directly from frozen in the oven helps preserve the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of cooking fresh?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken works perfectly. Rotisserie chicken, grilled leftovers, or even canned chicken can be seasoned and mixed with barbecue sauce for a quick shortcut.
2. What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Any style can be used depending on your taste. Smoky sauces add depth, sweet sauces create balance, and spicy or pineapple-infused versions add an exciting twist.
3. Can I substitute the cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely. While Monterey Jack melts beautifully, mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses also work well. Using smoked cheese can enhance the barbecue flavor even more.
4. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
The key is to spread a thin, even layer of sauce and avoid overloading the toppings. Pre-baking the dough for a few minutes before adding sauce can also help create a sturdier base.
5. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pizza crust. Store-bought versions, cauliflower bases, or even chickpea flour crusts all pair nicely with the toppings.
