This Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect summer treat! With tasty grilled chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese all on a crispy crust, it’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to pizza? I love topping mine with red onions and cilantro for an extra zing. It’s great for backyard gatherings with friends! 🍕😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling, but you can substitute with thighs for more flavor or even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred it before adding!
Barbecue sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce. For a healthier twist, try a low-sugar version. If you want more spice, mix in a bit of hot sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
Pizza dough: Pre-made dough saves time but feel free to make your own! If gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower crust as a substitute.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a must for that classic stretch! Gouda adds a nice smokiness, but if you can’t find it, try smoked provolone or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.
Red onion: If red onion isn’t your favorite, yellow onions are milder and sweeter. You can also use green onions for a fresher taste!
How Can I Grill the Perfect Pizza Crust?
Grilling pizza can feel tricky, but it’s all about temperature management and timing. Start with a clean grill, and make sure it’s preheated well. Heat makes a crispy crust!
- Dust your pizza peel with cornmeal or flour. This prevents sticking when you transfer the dough.
- Cook the dough for 2-3 minutes on one side until firm and marked. Don’t forget to check the bottom often to avoid burning.
- When you flip it, be quick! Work fast to assemble the toppings so it doesn’t cool too much.
With these tips, you’ll have a perfect grilled pizza every time! Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade, about 12-inch size)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded smoked gouda cheese (optional for smoky flavor)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cornmeal or flour, for dusting the grill and surface
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes for cooking, so expect a total of about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for summer cookouts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Marinate the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Next, toss the chicken in ½ cup of barbecue sauce, making sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes to soak up those delicious flavors.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and the juices run clear. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes, and then slice it into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Grill for Pizza:
Now it’s time to get the grill ready for the pizza! Clean the grates if needed, and then reduce the heat to medium. Lightly dust a clean pizza peel or baking sheet with cornmeal or flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a roughly 12-inch circle, making sure it’s even and not too thick.
5. Cook the Crust on the Grill:
Place the rolled-out dough directly onto the grill grates. Grill it for about 2-3 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the dough feels firm. Keep a close eye on the bottom to ensure it doesn’t burn!
6. Flip the Crust:
Using tongs or a pizza peel, carefully flip the dough over to the uncooked side. This is where you’ll add all the delicious toppings!
7. Assemble the Pizza:
Quickly spread the remaining ½ cup of barbecue sauce over the grilled side of the dough. Sprinkle it with the shredded mozzarella and smoked gouda cheeses, then add the grilled chicken slices and red onion slices for that yummy crunch.
8. Finish Grilling:
Close the grill lid and let everything cook for about 4-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and melted, and the crust is perfectly cooked.
9. Add Fresh Garnish and Serve:
When your pizza is ready, carefully remove it from the grill. Drizzle more barbecue sauce on top if you’d like and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for freshness. Slice it up and enjoy right away!
Dig into your delicious and smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza—it’s a summer favorite that everyone will love! 🍕✨
FAQ for Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Grilling My Own Chicken?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it to the pizza in place of grilled chicken for a quick and easy option!
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Pizza?
Leftover grilled BBQ chicken pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it for a quick warm-up.
Can I Make This Pizza on a Regular Oven Instead of a Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the assembled pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
What Are Some Good Toppings to Add?
If you’d like to mix things up, consider adding toppings like jalapeños for some heat, sliced bell peppers for crunch, or a drizzle of ranch dressing after baking for extra flavor!
