This BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza is a fun twist on a classic dish. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a tangy BBQ sauce, it’s loaded with flavor on a crispy crust!
Who can resist bacon, am I right? I like to add extra toppings, like peppers or onions, to make it even more colorful. Perfect for pizza night with friends! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for quick prep, but homemade gives you that fresh taste. If you’re gluten-free, try almond or cauliflower pizza crusts!
Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken is super handy. If you’re vegetarian, swap it for grilled mushrooms or smoked jackfruit for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand—sweet, smoky, or spicy! You can make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices if you’re looking for a fresher flavor.
Bacon: Turkey bacon works fine as a lighter option. For a vegetarian substitute, try crispy roasted chickpeas or tempeh bacon for added crunch!
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, use parsley or even green onions for a different taste.
How Do You Make the Perfect Pizza Crust?
Getting that pizza crust just right can be a bit tricky but rewarding! Here are some simple steps for a great crust every time:
- Start with a lightly floured surface to roll out your dough. This prevents sticking and keeps the shape.
- Don’t rush! Allow the dough to rest for about 15 minutes before rolling, letting it relax for easier stretching.
- Roll it out evenly for a consistent bake; too thick in some spots will lead to uneven cooking.
- Brush olive oil on the crust before baking. It adds flavor and helps it crisp up nicely.
With these tips, your pizza crust will come out deliciously golden and crispy! Enjoy making your BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza!
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 bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for brushing the crust)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole cooking adventure will take about 30 minutes! You’ll need 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and roll out the dough, and then just 15-20 minutes for baking. It’s quick, easy, and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza stone to prevent sticking. This will make it easier when you’re ready to transfer your delicious pizza!
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough until it’s big enough to fit your baking sheet or pizza stone. Don’t worry if it’s not a perfect circle; just make sure it’s even in thickness. Once rolled out, transfer the dough to your prepared surface.
3. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it with half of your chosen BBQ sauce. Make sure the chicken is well coated so every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Layer the BBQ Sauce:
Spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the pizza dough. This sauce will be the base that ties all your toppings together, so make it nice and even!
5. Add the Toppings:
Now, evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over the sauce. Top it off with the crumbled bacon and thinly sliced red onions. This combination is going to be a winner!
6. Cheese Time:
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the pizza. If you’re a cheese lover, go ahead and add the optional cheddar cheese on top as well!
7. Final Touches:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the crust for that perfect golden brown finish. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
8. Bake It Up:
Pop your pizza in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust turns a lovely golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with some chopped cilantro or parsley before slicing it up. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken from the rotisserie and mix it with the BBQ sauce as directed. This will save you from cooking the chicken from scratch!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Pizza?
To reheat your BBQ chicken bacon pizza, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid to help melt the cheese evenly without burning the crust.
Can I Substitute the Bacon with Another Meat or Make It Vegetarian?
Yes! If you want a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. For a vegetarian version, try adding extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap the chicken for grilled tofu marinated in BBQ sauce!
How Should I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent sogginess. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating!
