If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts crave-worthy and remarkably easy, this BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is the answer to all your pizza night dreams. Think of tender barbecue-sauced chicken nestled atop toasty flatbread, bubbling cheeses melding together, red onions lending a little pop, and a final touch of fresh cilantro to finish it off. Each bite is layered with sweet, savory, tangy flavors, all on a crispy, pillowy base. Whether you’re sharing with friends or whipping up a quick family meal, this is one seriously irresistible shortcut to pizza bliss!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what makes this BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza so special—the ingredients! Every element here was picked for maximum flavor and ease, so even on your busiest night, you’ll get the balance of melty, saucy, crisp, and bright that pizza dreams are made of.
- Flatbreads or naan: The sturdy foundation that gets perfectly crisp in the oven and holds all that deliciousness.
- Cooked shredded chicken: A great way to use up leftovers; rotisserie chicken works especially well for convenience and flavor.
- Barbecue sauce: Sweet, tangy, and smoky—this helps anchor every bite with bold, mouthwatering taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts like a dream and offers stretchy, gooey, cheesy comfort.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a touch of sharpness and gorgeous golden color on top.
- Thinly sliced red onion: A little crunch and gentle bite balances the sauces and cheeses brilliantly.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Just a sprinkle lifts everything, giving a fresh, herby finish to the pizza.
- Olive oil for brushing: Helps the flatbread crisp up beautifully and brings together every flavor before baking.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F—getting the oven nice and hot is key for a crisp, golden flatbread base. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to make sure your pizza lifts off perfectly once baked.
Step 2: Brush and Build the Base
Lay your flatbreads or naan on the prepared sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil. This little swipe makes such a difference: it helps the edges get delightfully crisp and golden, and sets the stage for all the toppings to shine.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Chicken Mixture
In a small bowl, toss your cooked shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until every piece is evenly coated. This ensures every bite pops with flavor and gives that signature BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza zing.
Step 4: Pile on the Toppings
Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over each flatbread. Sprinkle on the mozzarella and cheddar, letting them tumble together in cheesy ribbons. Nestle red onion slices over the top for that irresistible twist of flavor and color.
Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection
Pop your topped flatbreads into the hot oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and tinged with gold, and the flatbread edges are crisp and irresistible.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Remove your masterpiece from the oven and, if you like things saucy, give it an extra barbecue sauce drizzle. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro—fresh, green, and just what your BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza needs. Slice and enjoy while it’s warm and the cheese is still gooey.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Garnishes
For a flavor and texture boost, try a handful of fresh cilantro or even sliced green onions on top. If you love a kick of heat, a few rings of jalapeño or a dusting of red pepper flakes transform every bite into something special.
Side Dishes
This pizza is absolutely satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a spicy slaw for a pop of contrast. Add a side of potato wedges or sweet corn for a true backyard barbecue feel at the dinner table.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza into thin strips for appetizer-style finger food at your next gathering, or cut into quarters to serve alongside a trio of homemade dipping sauces. For a fun twist, assemble individual flatbreads and set out various toppings so everyone can make their own custom creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza keeps like a champ. Let it cool completely, then wrap slices tightly or transfer to an airtight container before popping them in the fridge. It stays fresh and tasty for up to three days—perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
If you want to save some for even longer, you can freeze your flatbread pizza after baking. Place cooled slices on a tray to freeze individually, then bundle them up in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is to use your oven or toaster oven: bake slices at 350°F for a few minutes until hot and the crust is crisp again. The microwave will work in a pinch but may soften the crust, so the oven is the top choice for that original bubbly, toasty finish.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought flatbread or do I need to make my own?
Absolutely, store-bought flatbreads or naan work beautifully for BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza. They deliver just the right blend of chew and crunch, and keep the recipe quick and easy.
What’s the best kind of barbecue sauce to use?
Go with your favorite! A sweet and smoky sauce pairs especially well, but feel free to experiment with spicier varieties or even homemade sauce if you want to give it a personal signature note.
Can I grill this pizza instead of baking?
Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smokiness to BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza. Place the assembled flatbreads directly on preheated grill grates and cook with the lid closed until the cheese is melty and the crust is crisp, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
What other toppings can I add?
The possibilities are endless! Try chopped bacon, sliced jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or even a little smoked gouda cheese for an extra flavor punch. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! You can have the chicken pre-cooked, veggies prepped, and even the flatbreads assembled ahead of time. When ready to eat, simply bake as directed and enjoy fresh, hot pizza in minutes.
Final Thoughts
Bursting with flavor and endlessly customizable, this BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s unfussy, fun to make, and sure to bring big smiles to your table—give it a try and watch everyone reach for seconds!
Print
BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 flatbreads (about 4 servings)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is a delicious twist on traditional pizza, featuring tender shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey melted cheese on a crispy flatbread crust. It’s a quick and easy dinner option the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Flatbreads:
- 2 flatbreads or naan
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the flatbreads: Brush each flatbread with a little olive oil.
- Coat chicken with barbecue sauce: In a small bowl, toss the cooked chicken with the barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble the pizzas: Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet and evenly distribute the BBQ chicken over each one. Sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then top with sliced red onions.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the flatbread are crisp.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra barbecue sauce if desired, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- For a smoky kick, add chopped jalapeños or smoked gouda.
- This recipe also works well on the grill.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ flatbread
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
