There is something undeniably comforting about the combination of smoky barbecue sauce, melted cheese, and tender chicken. While traditional pizza has its place in our hearts, the BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza offers a lighter, crispier, and much faster alternative that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Whether you are hosting a casual game night, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving something gourmet without the delivery fee, this recipe is a total game-changer.
The beauty of a flatbread pizza lies in its simplicity. You do not need to spend hours proofing dough or dealing with a flour-covered kitchen. By using pre-made flatbread or naan as your canvas, you shift the focus to the quality of your toppings and the harmony of flavors. In this guide, we will dive deep into how to craft the perfect BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza that rivals your favorite bistro.
What Exactly is BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza?
At its core, a BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is a modern twist on the classic Italian pizza. Instead of a thick, doughy crust and a traditional tomato-based marinara, this version utilizes a thin, often unleavened bread base topped with tangy barbecue sauce. The protein of choice is cooked chicken—usually shredded or diced—which acts as a mild, savory sponge for the bold flavors of the sauce.
The texture is what truly sets it apart. Because the base is thinner than a standard pizza crust, it bakes up incredibly quickly, achieving a satisfying crunch that provides a sturdy foundation for the gooey mozzarella and sharp red onions. It is a fusion dish that brings together the best of American backyard grilling and Mediterranean bread-making traditions.
The Fascinating Origin of BBQ Chicken Pizza
While flatbreads have been a staple in human diets for thousands of years—from Middle Eastern pita to Indian naan—the concept of putting barbecue sauce and chicken on a pizza is a relatively recent culinary innovation. Most food historians credit the birth of BBQ chicken pizza to the legendary chef Ed LaDou.
In the early nineteen eighties, LaDou was experimenting with unconventional toppings at the famous Prego restaurant in San Francisco. He eventually caught the attention of the founders of California Pizza Kitchen. It was there that the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza was officially put on the map, forever changing how Americans viewed pizza toppings. By swapping the red sauce for barbecue sauce and adding cilantro and red onions, a new classic was born. Today, the BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is the lighter, home-cook-friendly evolution of that California classic.
Essential Ingredients for Your Flatbread Masterpiece
To achieve the best results, you want to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Because there are only a few components, each one needs to shine. Here is what you will need for two generous servings:
Two Large Flatbreads or Naan: These serve as your crust. Naan is particularly good because its slightly buttery texture pairs beautifully with the smoke of the sauce.
One Cup of Cooked Chicken: You can use leftovers from a roast, rotisserie chicken from the store, or even freshly grilled chicken breast. Ensure it is shredded or cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
One Half Cup of BBQ Sauce: Choose a high-quality sauce. Whether you prefer a sweet Kansas City style, a vinegary Carolina style, or a spicy Texas blend, the sauce dictates the personality of your pizza. Keep a little extra on the side for drizzling.
One Cup of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella provides that classic stretch and mild flavor that balances the intensity of the barbecue sauce.
One Quarter Cup of Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions provide a necessary bite and a pop of color.
Two to Three Tablespoons of Chopped Cilantro: This is optional but highly recommended for a fresh, herbal finish that cuts through the richness.
One Tablespoon of Olive Oil: This is used to brush the edges of the flatbread to ensure they become golden brown and crisp rather than dry.
Step by Step Direction and Preparation Method
Creating a professional-grade BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza at home is all about the assembly and the temperature. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect bake every single time.
Preparing the Oven and the Base
The first step is to ensure your oven is properly heated. Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit (which is approximately two hundred degrees Celsius). If you have a pizza stone, feel free to use it, but a standard baking tray lined with parchment paper works perfectly well for flatbreads.
While the oven is heating, take your flatbreads and place them on the tray. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the outer edges of the bread with olive oil. This prevents the edges from burning while helping them achieve a beautiful, toasted crunch.
Dressing the Chicken
In a small mixing bowl, take your cooked chicken and toss it with about a quarter cup of your chosen barbecue sauce. This is a crucial step that many people skip. By coating the chicken beforehand, you ensure that every morsel of meat is flavorful and stays moist during the baking process. If you put plain chicken on the pizza, it can often dry out under the high heat of the oven.
Assembling the Layers
Now comes the fun part. Spread a thin, even layer of barbecue sauce over the surface of each flatbread, leaving about a half-inch border for the crust. Do not overdo the sauce on the base, as too much liquid can make the flatbread soggy.
Next, distribute your saucy chicken pieces evenly across the two breads. Follow this with a generous sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, scatter your thinly sliced red onions over the top. The onions will slightly caramelize in the oven, losing their harshness and becoming sweet and savory.
The Baking Process
Slide your tray into the center rack of the oven. Bake for eight to twelve minutes. You are looking for two specific signs of readiness: the cheese should be fully melted and perhaps starting to bubble with a few golden-brown spots, and the edges of the flatbread should look crisp and toasted.
The Final Flourish
Once you remove the pizzas from the oven, resist the urge to cut into them immediately. Let them sit for just a minute or two. This allows the cheese to set slightly so the toppings do not slide off. To finish, drizzle a small amount of fresh barbecue sauce across the top in a zig-zag pattern and sprinkle the freshly chopped cilantro over everything.
Creative Variations to Try: BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
One of the reasons the BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is so popular is its versatility. Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can begin to experiment with different flavor profiles.
The Spicy Kick
If you enjoy heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking. You can also use a “hot and spicy” variety of barbecue sauce to elevate the temperature of the dish.
The Smoky Bacon Twist
Everything is better with bacon. Adding crispy, crumbled bacon bits alongside the chicken introduces a secondary smoky element and a salty crunch that complements the sweet sauce perfectly.
The Pineapple Debate
Much like the famous Hawaiian pizza, some people love the addition of pineapple on a barbecue pizza. The sweetness of the fruit pairs naturally with barbecue sauce. If you go this route, ensure the pineapple is drained well so it doesn’t add excess moisture to the crust.
Different Cheese Blends
While mozzarella is the gold standard for melting, adding a bit of sharp cheddar or smoked gouda can add depth to the flavor. A blend of mozzarella and monterey jack is also a fantastic option for a very creamy melt.
Frequently Asked Questions: BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Can I use frozen flatbread for this BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza?
Yes, you certainly can. If you are using frozen flatbread or naan, you may want to let it thaw for a few minutes before adding toppings. If you cook it straight from frozen, you might need to add two to three minutes to the total baking time to ensure the center is hot.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
To maintain the crispness of the flatbread, avoid the microwave if possible. The best way to reheat a BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is in a toaster oven or back in a regular oven at three hundred fifty degrees until the cheese is bubbly again. A dry skillet over medium heat also works wonders for crisping up the bottom.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza vegetarian?
Absolutely. You can substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas, sliced mushrooms, or even a meat-like plant-based substitute. The smoky barbecue sauce and melted cheese will still provide that satisfying “BBQ” experience.
My flatbread always comes out soggy, what am I doing wrong?
Sogginess usually comes from two things: too much sauce or too many “wet” toppings (like raw vegetables that release water). Try spreading a thinner layer of sauce on the base and ensure your chicken is well-drained. Baking the flatbread directly on the oven rack for the last two minutes can also help crisp up the bottom.
Conclusion: BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
The BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is a testament to the fact that great food does not have to be complicated. By combining the convenience of flatbread with the bold, nostalgic flavors of barbecue, you create a meal that feels like a treat but is simple enough for any night of the week. This recipe balances the tang of the sauce, the creaminess of the cheese, and the crunch of the bread in a way that satisfies every taste bud.
Next time you are staring at a package of chicken and wondering what to make, skip the usual stir-fry or salad. Grab some flatbread, your favorite bottle of sauce, and whip up this crowd-pleasing pizza. It is fast, it is flavorful, and it is sure to become a recurring favorite in your kitchen rotation.
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The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza: A Crispy and Savory Homemade Delight
- Total Time: 20–22 minutes
- Yield: 2 flatbread pizzas (4 servings) 1x
Description
At its core, a BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is a modern twist on the classic Italian pizza. Instead of a thick, doughy crust and a traditional tomato-based marinara, this version utilizes a thin, often unleavened bread base topped with tangy barbecue sauce. The protein of choice is cooked chicken—usually shredded or diced—which acts as a mild, savory sponge for the bold flavors of the sauce.
Ingredients
2 flatbreads or naan
1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzle)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
2–3 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment if available.
Mix chicken & sauce: In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with about ¼ cup BBQ sauce.
Prepare flatbread: Place flatbreads on the tray and lightly brush edges with olive oil.
Add toppings:
Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on each flatbread.
Add the BBQ chicken evenly.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Add sliced red onions.
Bake for 8–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and edges are crisp.
Finish: Remove from oven, drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce, and sprinkle cilantro if using.
Notes
This BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza is perfect for busy days when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste and enjoy every bite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (¼ flatbread)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
Keywords: Barbecue Chicken Flatbread, Homemade BBQ Chicken Pizza, BBQ Chicken Naan Pizza, Quick BBQ Chicken Pizza
