Name: Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 recipe homemade pizza dough (or 1 lb. store-bought pizza dough); 1 Tablespoon (15ml) olive oil, divided; 1 Tablespoon (8g) cornmeal; 1/3 cup + 2 Tablespoons (130g) barbecue sauce; 1 cup chopped or shredded cooked chicken (about one 8-ounce breast); 2/3 cup (70g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 2/3 cup (70g) shredded smoked gouda cheese; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for topping (or use basil)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with melty cheese and tender chicken, Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza is your perfect match. With a chewy, golden crust, heaps of cheese, savory chicken, and the sparkle of fresh herbs on top, this dish delivers a pizzeria-level experience right from your own oven. Whether you use homemade dough or pick up a ball from the store, you’ll love how accessible—and flat-out delicious—this Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe is, easily becoming a new favorite for weeknights or gatherings alike.

Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet high-impact ingredients is the first step to pizza success. Every component in Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza brings its own bit of magic—whether it’s that unmistakable smokiness, a creamy cheese pull, or a hint of crunch on the crust. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy tips to make each ingredient sing.

Pizza Dough: Homemade or store-bought, this is your canvas—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy stretching.
Olive Oil: Adds richness to the crust and helps achieve that lovely golden color.
Cornmeal: Sprinkled on the pan, it creates a crunchy, flavorful foundation and keeps the dough from sticking.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite kind—smoky, spicy, or sweet—for a flavorful base and to toss with the chicken.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie, grilled, or baked chicken breast all work beautifully; shred or chop for even coverage.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides that classic gooey, stretchy melt everyone craves on pizza.
Smoked Gouda Cheese: Infuses extra smoky richness and pairs perfectly with barbecue flavors.
Red Onion: Sliced thin for a burst of tangy crunch and a gorgeous pop of color.
Fresh Cilantro (or Basil): A sprinkle on top adds fresh, herbal brightness to every bite.

How to Make Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by prepping your pizza dough—if you’re using homemade, get it ready according to your recipe through its initial rise, or let a store-bought ball come to room temperature. This makes stretching a breeze and prevents tearing. Grease your pan with half the olive oil, then sprinkle with cornmeal for that signature crunch and non-stick magic.

Step 2: Shape the Pizza

Punch down the dough to deflate any air bubbles. Divide if you’re working with a large batch—freeze half for a future pizza night. On a floured surface, gently stretch and flatten the dough into a 12-inch circle, aiming for about half an inch of thickness. Pinch up the edges to form a classic pizza rim; if the dough feels stubborn and keeps springing back, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, covered, and try again. Once shaped, lightly cover and let it rest while you get your toppings ready.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

Push gentle dents into the dough with your fingertips to prevent bubbling while baking. Brush the surface with the remaining olive oil for flavor and color. Spread a generous layer of barbecue sauce evenly across the dough. Toss your cooked chicken with a little more barbecue sauce, then distribute it over the pie, making sure every slice will get some chicken. Sprinkle both cheeses evenly so you get a melty, bubbly finish, and top with plenty of thinly sliced red onion.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your pizza to the oven—if you’re using a preheated pizza stone, carefully slide it on, or bake right on your prepared sheet or pizza pan. Bake at 475°F for 14 to 15 minutes, watching for that beautiful golden-brown edge and bubbly, browned cheese. When it’s done, pull it from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh cilantro or basil for a blast of color and freshness.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Let your homemade BBQ chicken pizza rest for a minute, then slice it into wedges while the cheese is still deliciously gooey. Serve hot, enjoy the smiles, and soak up the crowd-pleasing, saucy-cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza

Garnishes

For an extra pop, scatter more fresh cilantro or basil on top after baking. A drizzle of extra barbecue sauce or a few sliced green onions can bring even more flair and freshness to each crispy slice.

Side Dishes

Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza pairs perfectly with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, crunchy coleslaw, or even oven-roasted potato wedges. Looking for something lighter? Go with a cucumber-tomato salad to balance the rich barbecue flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it festive by serving your pizza on a wooden board, add ramekins of ranch dressing or spicy honey for dipping, or slice into smaller pieces for an appetizer platter at your next get-together. Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza also makes a great “pizza night” centerpiece for family and friends to gather around!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your pizza fresh, cover leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 4 to 5 days for best flavor and texture. The cheese might firm up a bit, but a quick reheat brings everything back to life.

Freezing

If you want BBQ chicken pizza ready for future cravings, freeze individual slices or the entire pizza after baking but before garnishing. Wrap well in plastic then foil, or use a freezer bag. Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza can be frozen for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat leftover pizza in a hot oven (around 400°F) on a baking sheet or directly on the rack for 5 to 8 minutes. You can also use a skillet over medium-low heat to revive the crust. Microwaving is quick but will soften the crust—so the oven is your best friend for that freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and smoked gouda are recommended for that perfect blend of melt and smoky flavor, you can swap in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even fontina for a custom twist. Just be sure to pair with at least one cheese that melts beautifully.

Is there a way to make this pizza spicy?

For a kick, mix a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes into your barbecue sauce, or add sliced jalapeños as a topping. A smoky chipotle BBQ sauce is another delicious option for turning up the heat.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for pizza?

Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken keeps it simple, but if you’d like to cook your own, grilling or roasting a chicken breast with a sprinkle of salt and pepper brings added flavor. Make sure it’s shredded or chopped for easy, even distribution over your pizza.

Can I make a gluten-free version of Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza?

Yes, just substitute a gluten-free pizza dough for the base! Many stores offer excellent ready-to-bake gluten-free doughs, so you can enjoy every smoky, cheesy bite without worry.

Is it possible to make this pizza vegetarian?

Certainly! Swap the chicken for roasted mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, or even BBQ-marinated jackfruit for a meatless take that still packs in tons of flavor and satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Making Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza at home is honestly a joyful, flavorful experience you’ll want to repeat again and again. With its irresistible blend of gooey cheese, tangy sauce, and crunchy crust, it’s a definite crowd-pleaser for pizza lovers of any age. Give it a try—you might just find yourself skipping takeout and looking forward to your own pizza nights!

Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 15 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 1 12-inch pizza 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy the delicious flavors of barbecue chicken on a homemade pizza crust with this easy and satisfying Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends and family.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Dough:

1/2 recipe homemade pizza dough (or 1 lb. store-bought pizza dough)
1 Tablespoon (15ml) olive oil, divided
1 Tablespoon (8g) cornmeal

Toppings:

1/3 cup + 2 Tablespoons (130g) barbecue sauce
1 cup chopped or shredded cooked chicken (about one 8-ounce breast)
2/3 cup (70g) shredded mozzarella cheese
2/3 cup (70g) shredded smoked gouda cheese
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 Tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for topping (or use basil)

Instructions

Dough: Prepare pizza dough through step 3. Preheat oven to 475°F (246°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or pizza pan with olive oil and cornmeal.
Shape the dough: Divide and shape the dough into a 12-inch circle. Create a lip around the edges.
Top the pizza: Brush olive oil on the dough. Spread BBQ sauce, chicken, cheeses, and red onion on top.
Bake: Bake for 14–15 minutes until golden brown. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.