Description
This BBQ Chicken Pizza features tender shredded chicken in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with melted mozzarella, red onions, and corn. It’s a quick and delicious option for weeknight dinners or gatherings, with customizable toppings and crust options for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- If using raw chicken, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce. Mix well and set aside.
- If using a pre-made pizza crust, follow the package instructions for any pre-baking requirements. If making homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pre-bake the crust for about 5-7 minutes if desired.
- Brush the crust lightly with olive oil.
- Spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken.
- Scatter the thinly sliced red onions and corn kernels over the cheese.
- Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
- Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. Cover edges with aluminum foil if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top of the pizza.
- Slice the pizza into wedges or squares.
- Serve hot, with extra BBQ sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Feel free to add other toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to customize your pizza.
- For a healthier option, use a whole wheat pizza crust or a cauliflower crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes