This Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza is perfect for summer days! It features a crispy crust topped with juicy BBQ chicken, zesty sauce, and melted cheese. Yum!
I love how fun and easy it is to make on the grill. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy time outside while munching on a delicious slice. Gather some friends for a pizza party! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: I recommend using store-bought dough for convenience. If you want a homemade touch, make your own! You could also use naan or pita bread for a quicker option.
Chicken: Grilled chicken adds a lovely smoky flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time or substitute shredded tofu for a vegetarian version.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce works best. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a sugar-free version or even a homemade sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives sweetness and crunch, but canned or frozen corn works too. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn before using.
Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, mixing it up with pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese can give a nice kick. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get the Best Grill Marks and Texture on My Pizza?
Grilling pizza can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get perfect grill marks and a crisp texture! First, ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the dough. This helps create immediate sear marks.
- Brush the dough with oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t open the grill too often; let the lid stay down for even cooking.
- When flipping, work quickly to add toppings while the crust is still hot.
Give the pizza a little extra time on the grill if you want a crispier base, but watch carefully to prevent burning!
Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza for Summer
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, enough for a 12-inch pizza)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (grilled preferred)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (approximately from 1 ear of corn)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced pickled red onions
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for brushing dough
- Ranch or garlic aioli sauce (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Do You Need?
This delicious pizza takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to grill. So, in just 20 minutes, you’ll have a tasty BBQ chicken pizza ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (around 450°F / 230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the pizza from sticking.
2. Prep the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Brush one side of the dough with olive oil to help with grilling.
3. Grill the Pizza Base:
Place the oiled side of the dough down onto the grill. Close the lid and grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and bubbles forming on the top side.
4. Flip the Crust:
Carefully flip the pizza base using tongs or a spatula. Quickly brush the grilled side with olive oil to keep it from drying out.
5. Add Toppings:
Spread half of the barbecue sauce on the grilled side of the dough. Next, layer the grilled chicken, corn kernels, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses evenly over the sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some green onion slices on top!
6. Grill the Topped Pizza:
Close the grill lid again and cook for another 4-6 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
7. Finish and Garnish:
Carefully take the pizza off the grill. Drizzle the remaining barbecue sauce and optional ranch or garlic aioli over the top. Scatter pickled red onions, chopped green onions, and cilantro leaves for a fresh, flavorful touch.
8. Serve:
Slice into squares or wedges and serve warm—it’s perfect for summer gatherings! Enjoy your smoky, cheesy, and tangy BBQ chicken pizza right off the grill!
FAQ for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred or chop it before adding it to your pizza.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can bake the pizza in the oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. You can also use a pizza stone in the oven for a better crust texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 30-60 seconds.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your pizza with additional toppings like bell peppers, jalapeños, or pineapple for a sweet twist. Just remember to keep the total amount of toppings balanced to ensure even cooking.
