This BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza is a fun twist on your regular pizza! Topped with juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and a tangy BBQ sauce, it’s super tasty and satisfying!
Who knew pizza could get even better? I love that smoky flavor from the bacon paired with the sweet BBQ sauce! Perfect for a Friday night or game day feast! 🍕🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for quick prep, or make your own. If you’re gluten-free, many stores offer gluten-free pizza dough as well. I often whip up a quick homemade version if I have the time; it’s really rewarding!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. If you don’t have chicken, leftover turkey or even canned chicken works. You can also use cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce – smoky, sweet, or spicy will all work great. If you’re looking for healthier options, check for low-sugar varieties. I often like to mix two types of BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
Bacon: While crispy bacon adds great flavor, turkey bacon or pancetta can be a tasty alternative. For a vegetarian option, you can use chopped green olives for a salty kick!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture, but you can swap in provolone or Monterey Jack. If you’re dairy-free, try non-dairy cheese alternatives that melt well. I like a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a bit of extra flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pizza Crust?
The crust is the heart of the pizza, and getting it just right is essential! Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure your oven is really hot before you bake — 475°F (245°C) is great for a crispy crust.
- When rolling out the dough, use flour on your surface to prevent sticking. Aim for about a 12-14 inch round for a standard pizza size.
- Don’t skip brushing the crust with olive oil! It adds flavor and helps it brown nicely.
- Watch it closely when baking. It should take around 15-20 minutes, but every oven can vary. Look for that golden-brown color and bubbling cheese.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for brushing the crust)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes before enjoying your tasty creation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). This will ensure your pizza bakes to perfection, with a nice crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough until it’s the right size for your pizza pan or baking sheet. Once rolled out, transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it to fit the edges.
3. Season the Crust:
Lightly brush the outer crust with olive oil. Then, sprinkle a little salt and pepper over it for flavor. This will make your crust extra tasty!
4. Mix the BBQ Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it with half of the BBQ sauce. Stir well to make sure all the chicken is coated with the delicious sauce.
5. Spread the Sauce:
Take the remaining BBQ sauce and spread it evenly over the rolled-out pizza dough. This will be the base for all your tasty toppings.
6. Add the Chicken:
Evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over the BBQ sauce on the pizza base. Make sure to cover it nicely so every slice has that yummy chicken!
7. Top with Bacon:
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the chicken layer. Can’t go wrong with bacon, right?
8. Add the Vegetables and Cheese:
Now, scatter the thinly sliced red onion on top, followed by a generous handful of mozzarella cheese. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle that on too for even more flavor.
9. Bake the Pizza:
Place your assembled pizza in the hot oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is all bubbly and melted.
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take your pizza out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top to add a burst of color and freshness.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza and serve hot. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time saver. Just shred the meat and mix it with the BBQ sauce as stated in the recipe. It adds flavor and saves you the cooking time!
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you can use a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for a quick substitute. Alternatively, try using a tangy sauce like buffalo sauce for a spicy kick or a homemade mixture of honey, soy sauce, and vinegar for a unique flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza?
To store leftovers, let the pizza cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Pizza?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Additional vegetables like bell peppers, jalapeños, or mushrooms work well. You can also add other types of cheese or switch up the proteins if you’d like. Just be mindful not to overload it, as it can affect cooking time!
