This Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza is perfect for summer cookouts! With juicy chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a tasty treat that everyone will love.
Making it is fun too! Just grill the chicken, toss it on dough, and bake it with your favorite toppings. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering! 🌞🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook evenly on the grill. You can also use thighs for a juicier flavor or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just shred it up and add it to the pizza!
Barbecue Sauce: The barbecue sauce adds that tangy sweetness. Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade varieties. If you’re looking for something lighter, try substituting with a homemade vinaigrette or a spicy sauce for a kick.
Pizza Dough: A pre-made pizza dough saves time, but you could also use pita bread, naan, or even a cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is sweet and delicious, but frozen corn works nicely too. If corn isn’t available, diced bell peppers can be a great substitute to add color and crunch.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the pizza, but if you’re not a fan, consider using chopped basil or parsley instead for a different herbaceous touch.
How Do I Perfectly Grill the Chicken for My Pizza?
Grilling chicken for pizza is a simple process, but there are a few tricks to make it perfectly cooked and flavorful. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high; this helps achieve great grill marks.
- Season your chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Adding barbecue sauce before grilling gives it extra taste.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy! Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution on the pizza.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken that adds a lovely flavor to your BBQ chicken pizza!
Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (about 12 inches)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup pickled red onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or chives
- 1/4 cup ranch or creamy dressing (optional, for drizzling)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza is quick to make! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing everything and around 15-20 minutes cooking, including grilling the chicken and pizza. Total time required is about 30-35 minutes, perfect for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper, then brush them lightly with about 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
While the chicken is grilling, lightly brush both sides of the pizza dough with olive oil. When the chicken is ready, place the dough onto the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until you get nice grill marks and the crust starts to cook through. After grilling, remove the pizza dough and place it on a flat work surface to add your toppings.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread half of the remaining barbecue sauce evenly over the grilled pizza dough. Evenly distribute the chopped grilled chicken pieces over the top, followed by the corn kernels. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously on top of everything.
4. Final Cooking:
Return the pizza to the grill over indirect heat if possible, or transfer it to a preheated oven set to 425°F (220°C). Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the pizza from heat. Drizzle with any remaining barbecue sauce and your ranch or creamy dressing if desired. Garnish with pickled red onions, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro or chives. Slice the pizza and serve warm, and enjoy your fresh grilled BBQ chicken pizza perfect for summer gatherings!
FAQ for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for pre-cooked options!
Can I Substitute the Barbecue Sauce?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce. You can also experiment with homemade BBQ sauce or try other sauces like buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Just ensure it complements the flavors of the pizza!
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it for a minute or two until warmed through.
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the grilled chicken and assemble the pizza without baking it. Cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply grill or bake as instructed. This is a great way to save time on busy days!
