How to make BBQ chicken pizza | Complete Guide 2025

When you combine the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with juicy grilled chicken, melted cheese, and a crispy crust, you’re not just making dinner you’re creating a BBQ chicken pizza masterpiece. Loved by foodies and families alike, this pizza offers the perfect fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to make BBQ chicken pizza at home from ingredients to baking tips, plus a few pro tricks to take it to the next level.

What Is BBQ Chicken Pizza?

BBQ chicken pizza is a flavorful twist on traditional pizza. Instead of using marinara sauce, it uses a rich barbecue sauce base, topped with grilled or shredded chicken, red onions, mozzarella, and often a sprinkle of cilantro or smoked gouda for an extra kick.
This pizza gained popularity thanks to California style pizza restaurants and has since become a favorite in homes and pizzerias worldwide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a simple and delicious list of ingredients for the best BBQ chicken pizza:

• 1 pre-made or homemade pizza crust
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast (grilled or shredded)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Olive oil (for brushing crust)
• Smoked gouda or cheddar (optional for flavor boost)

Step by Step Recipe: How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly brush your pizza crust with olive oil to get that golden crispy edge.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 3: Layer the Toppings

Distribute the cooked chicken evenly, followed by red onion slices. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese (and smoked gouda if using).

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and slice into wedges. Serve hot!

Tips for the Best Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and juicy flavor.
• Try different BBQ sauces like honey BBQ, smoky chipotle, or spicy Korean for variety.
• Don’t overload toppings balance is key to a crisp, evenly baked pizza.
• Add a drizzle of ranch or sriracha for an extra flavor punch.

Nutritional Info (Approximate Per Slice)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• (May vary depending on crust and sauce used)

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Pizza

Whether it’s for a weekend movie night, a casual get together, or a solo treat, BBQ chicken pizza delivers big on taste and satisfaction. It’s an easy recipe that packs gourmet flavor without the fuss.

Final Thoughts

Homemade BBQ chicken pizza is a crowd pleaser and a personal favorite for pizza lovers who want something a little different. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen.

The BEST BBQ Chicken Pizza

Recipe by Erick RolfsanCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This has become a Friday night tradition in our home! We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Ingredients

• 1 pizza dough (not frozen)

• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce, more if needed

• 1-2 cups shredded chicken

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup red onion slices

• Roasted red tomatoes

Directions

• Preheat oven to 425°F. 
• Roll out the pizza dough if needed. Lightly brush oil on a pizza stone or large baking sheet, then place dough onto stone or pan. 
• Place 1/4 cup BBQ sauce on the pizza dough with a spoon. Mix the remaining BBQ sauce together with the chicken. 
• Sprinkle cheese over the dough and then add the chicken, onions and roasted red tomatoes.
• Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and top with fresh cilantro.