Delicious homemade BBQ Chicken pizza recipe

BBQ pizza has become a beloved fusion of two classic favorites, combining the smoky flavors of barbecue with the irresistible appeal of pizza. This mouthwatering creation has gained popularity for its unique taste and versatility, offering a delicious twist on traditional pizza toppings. With its tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and a medley of complementary ingredients, BBQ chicken pizza has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of food enthusiasts everywhere.

This article guides readers through the process of making a delectable homemade BBQ chicken pizza from scratch. It covers everything from preparing the pizza dough to creating the perfect BBQ chicken topping. Readers will learn how to assemble and bake their pizza to perfection, using tools like a pizza stone for that ideal crispy crust. The article also offers serving suggestions and customization ideas, allowing pizza lovers to experiment with additional toppings such as red onions, cilantro, or a drizzle of ranch dressing to create their own signature BBQ pizza masterpiece.

Preparing the Pizza Dough

Homemade vs Store-bought Options

While store-bought pizza dough offers convenience, homemade dough often yields superior results. Making pizza dough from scratch requires just six basic ingredients and provides a perfect balance of crisp edges and a fluffy, chewy interior. The process is straightforward, making it ideal for beginners new to baking with yeast. Homemade dough also freezes well, allowing for future use.

For those short on time, store-bought options are available. However, it’s crucial to ensure frozen dough is fully thawed before use. Some pizzerias sell their dough, which can be a good alternative to mass-produced options. Store-bought dough may require additional shaping and resting to achieve the desired texture.

Rolling and Shaping the Dough

To prepare homemade dough, start by punching it down to release air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, gently flatten the dough into a disk. Transfer it to a prepared pan and stretch it into a 12-inch circle, about 1/2-inch thick. If the dough shrinks back, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before continuing.

Once shaped, lift the edges to create a lip around the rim. Use your fingers to make dents in the surface, preventing bubbling during baking. Brush the dough with olive oil for added flavor and crispiness.

For those using store-bought dough, divide and shape it into rounds, placing them in lightly oiled containers. This step helps the dough maintain a circular shape and provides space for rising without spreading too much.

When ready to shape, transfer the dough to a well-floured surface. Use your hands to press it out from the center, rotating as you go. For a thinner crust, pick up the dough and drape it over your knuckles, gently stretching it to the desired size.

Remember, patience is key when working with pizza dough. If it resists stretching, allow it to rest for a few minutes before continuing. This technique results in a more pliable dough and a better-textured crust.

Creating the BBQ Chicken Topping

Cooking and Seasoning the Chicken

To create a flavorful BBQ chicken topping, one can start with a fresh chicken breast or opt for pre-cooked alternatives. For those using a raw chicken breast, seasoning is key. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This spice mixture should be applied generously to both sides of the chicken breast.

Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breast in the skillet. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before chopping it into small pieces.

For those short on time, pre-cooked chicken options are available. A rotisserie chicken can be easily shredded and used as a convenient alternative. Canned chicken breast is another time-saving option; simply drain the chicken before use.

Mixing with BBQ Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked and chopped, it’s time to mix it with BBQ sauce. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that signature barbecue flavor and preventing it from drying out during baking. Add approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce to the chopped chicken, depending on personal preference and the amount of chicken used.

Gently stir the chicken and sauce together, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. For those who enjoy extra sauce, additional BBQ sauce can be served on the side for dipping.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding sliced red onion and jalapeño to the pizza along with the BBQ chicken. These additional toppings complement the smoky-sweet flavor of the barbecue sauce and add a pleasant kick to the overall taste.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza

Layering the Toppings

To assemble the BBQ chicken pizza, one should start by preheating the oven to 475°F (246°C). While the oven heats up, it’s time to layer the toppings on the prepared pizza dough. First, a thin layer of BBQ sauce should be spread over the crust. About 1/3 cup of sauce is typically sufficient, but more can be added for those who prefer extra sauce.

Next, a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese should be added. For a more complex flavor profile, one can also include smoked gouda cheese, which pairs well with the sweet BBQ sauce. Following the cheese, thinly sliced red onions should be scattered across the pizza to add a sharp, zesty flavor to each bite.

The star of the pizza, the BBQ chicken, comes next. One cup of chopped cooked chicken, tossed in a little BBQ sauce, should be evenly distributed over the pizza. This step helps prevent the chicken from drying out during baking. Finally, another layer of cheese can be added on top of the chicken for extra gooeyness.

Baking Temperature and Time

With the toppings in place, the pizza is ready for baking. The oven should have been preheating for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure it reaches the proper temperature. The pizza should be baked at 475°F (246°C) for approximately 14-15 minutes, or until the crust turns a golden brown color and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For those who prefer a crispier crust, pre-baking the pizza dough for about 6 minutes before adding the toppings can be beneficial. In this case, after adding the toppings, the pizza should be baked at 450°F for 10-15 minutes.

Once the pizza is done, it should be removed from the oven. For a finishing touch, fresh cilantro can be sprinkled over the hot pizza. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. If cilantro isn’t to one’s liking, it can be omitted or replaced with fresh basil.

Serving and Customization Ideas

Garnishes and Extra Toppings

To elevate the BBQ chicken pizza experience, one can experiment with various garnishes and extra toppings. A popular choice is to sprinkle fresh cilantro over the hot pizza after removing it from the oven. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. For those who aren’t fans of cilantro, fresh basil can be used as an alternative.

Additional toppings can be added to customize the pizza further. Cooked and crumbled bacon brings a smoky, salty flavor that pairs well with the BBQ chicken. Sliced jalapeños, either pickled or fresh, can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat. Pickled red onions offer a tangy contrast to the sweet BBQ sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing beverages with BBQ chicken pizza, wine enthusiasts have several options. A simple Pinot Noir, with its fine tannins and fruit-forward light body, can bring out the best in each bite without overpowering the chicken. Malbec or Merlot are also excellent choices, as their sweetness balances well with the barbecue sauce.

For those who prefer white wine, a Chardonnay can be a great match. Its creamy notes complement the richness of the pizza. Alternatively, a sweeter white like Riesling can balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce while providing enough acidity to cut through the richness.

For a complete meal, one can serve the BBQ chicken pizza alongside a simple arugula and lemon salad. This light, refreshing side dish provides a nice contrast to the hearty pizza.

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling homemade jalapeño ranch over the pizza for a delicious, spicy kick. This can be especially appealing for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal.