This tasty grilled BBQ chicken pizza is perfect for summer! It has a crispy crust topped with juicy BBQ chicken, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese. It’s fun and colorful!
Making this pizza is a breeze, and your grill will love the chance to work its magic. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Who knew pizza could be so easy and yummy? 🍕😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for ease, or make your own if you prefer. If gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free pizza crust—it works just as well and can taste amazing!
Chicken: I love using grilled chicken breast for its smoky flavor. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken you have on hand. For a vegetarian option, swap it with grilled veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce will make a difference! If you’re looking for a lighter option, BBQ-flavored marinades or even homemade sauces can work. Check for no-sugar options if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Corn: Fresh corn is great, but canned or frozen corn works perfectly too. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen corn. For a twist, try using black beans or diced tomatoes instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that classic melted goodness, but you can also mix in cheddar or gouda for extra flavor. Vegan cheese is an excellent substitute if you’re dairy-free!
How Do I Grill the Perfect Pizza?
Grilling pizza may seem tricky, but with the right steps, it’s simple and fun! First, preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a crispy crust without burning.
- Start with rolled-out pizza dough; brush it lightly with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and creates those nice grill marks.
- Grill the dough directly over heat for about 2-3 minutes until the underside is golden. Remember to flip it before adding toppings.
- Add your BBQ sauce and toppings quickly after flipping, keeping the grill closed to retain heat. This melts the cheese nicely.
- Check for doneness; the cheese should be bubbling and the crust golden! Use a spatula to lift the pizza and ensure the bottom isn’t burnt.
Once everything looks perfect, remove your pizza and let it cool for a minute before slicing. Enjoy the fresh grilled flavor!
Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (grilled if possible)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions (pickled for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Ranch dressing or creamy white sauce for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time to get everything ready, plus around 10-15 minutes for grilling. So, you can have your delicious BBQ chicken pizza ready in about half an hour—perfect for a quick and tasty summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preparing your grill for medium-high heat, around 450°F (232°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals so you have both direct and indirect heat available.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, letting it marinate for at least 10 minutes. If your chicken isn’t cooked, grill it until cooked through, then shred or dice it.
3. Prepare the Dough:
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it forms a 12-inch round or rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Brush one side lightly with olive oil to help it crisp on the grill.
4. Grill the Dough:
Carefully place the dough onto the grill over the direct heat. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden and nice grill marks form. Then flip the dough using tongs or a spatula.
5. Add Toppings:
While the second side cooks, quickly spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce over the grilled side. Sprinkle the shredded chicken, corn kernels, sliced green onions, mozzarella cheese, and pickled red onions on top.
6. Finish Grilling:
Close the grill lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crust is fully cooked. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the pizza from the grill. Drizzle some ranch dressing or a creamy sauce over the top. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro and extra green onions if you’d like. Slice, serve, and enjoy your warm pizza!
Enjoy your bright, smoky, cheesy BBQ chicken pizza, perfect for summer cookouts! 🍕🌞
FAQ for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
What If I Can’t Grill? Can I Bake This Pizza Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the assembled pizza on a pizza stone or a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this pizza with your favorite toppings like peppers, mushrooms, or even bacon. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as some toppings may require extra cooking.
