Description
Remember that first time you had BBQ chicken pizza and your mind was completely blown? Sweet, tangy BBQ sauce instead of boring tomato sauce, tender chunks of chicken, caramelized onions, and that perfect cheese pull that makes you question every pizza choice you’ve ever made? Well, now you can make that magic at home, and honestly, it’s going to be better than any delivery joint. This isn’t some sad frozen pizza situation — this is crispy-crust, smoky-sweet, restaurant-quality pizza that’ll have your neighbors “accidentally” dropping by around dinner time. My pizza-snob brother-in-law tried this and immediately demanded the recipe. When someone who judges pizza for a living asks for your recipe, you know you’ve nailed it.
Ingredients
For the Dough (or cheat and buy it):
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought is totally fine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Cornmeal for dusting (optional but fancy)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pizza Magic:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Finishing Touch:
- Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
- More cilantro
- Red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat)
- Ranch for dipping (don’t judge)
Instructions
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcook it — it’s going back in the oven.
Toss with 2 tbsp BBQ sauce and set aside to cool slightly.
In the same pan (why dirty more dishes?), add sliced red onions.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden.
Add minced garlic for the last minute. Set aside.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (or as hot as it’ll go).
If using a pizza stone, put it in while preheating. If using a baking sheet, lightly oil it.
Roll out your dough on a floured surface. Don’t stress about perfect circles — rustic is totally in.
Brush the dough with olive oil (this prevents soggy bottom syndrome).
Spread BBQ sauce evenly, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
Sprinkle on half the mozzarella (gotta have that cheese foundation).
Add the BBQ chicken pieces and caramelized onions.
Top with remaining mozzarella and all the cheddar.
Slide onto your pizza stone or baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly with those gorgeous brown spots.
Let it cool for 3-4 minutes (hardest part of the whole recipe).
Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce in a pretty pattern.
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and red pepper flakes.
Slice and prepare for the compliments.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad to balance all that cheesy goodness.
Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping (yes, it’s a thing).
Perfect with ice-cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Cut into smaller squares for the ultimate party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Protein: ~28g