BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe - Made in USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Pizza combines the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with the comforting taste of homemade pizza. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, incorporating a tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken strips, and a generous topping of cheese, all brought together on a crispy crust. It's a perfect meal for gatherings, family dinners, or when you're simply craving something deliciously different.

History

The concept of BBQ Chicken Pizza is believed to have been popularized in the early 1980s by California Pizza Kitchen, with chefs Ed LaDou and Larry Flax creating a menu that would bring unique and global flavors to the traditional pizza. The idea was to combine the American love for barbecue with the universally beloved pizza, resulting in a dish that was both familiar and new. Since then, BBQ Chicken Pizza has become a favorite in households and restaurants around the world.

Ingredients

1 pizza crust
Enough barbeque sauce to spread over the crust
2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
crushed red pepper to taste
1 whole red onion
1 lb (454 g) of chicken breast, sliced into strips
1 and a half cups of shredded monterey jack, cheddar, and provolone

Spice rub for chicken

Amounts depend on personal preference
salt
pepper
oregano
parsley

How to prepare

Prepare the crust.
Add 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil to the sauce, along with some crushed red pepper, and spread it over the crust.
Slice a whole red onion into rings and add them on top of the sauce.
Roll the chicken strips in a dry rub of salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley.
Place the chicken on top of the onions.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese mixture on top.
Bake at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes or until desired melty goodness is achieved. Enjoy.

Variations

Consider these variations to keep the recipe exciting:
Swap out chicken for pulled pork or tofu for a different protein option.
Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory Hawaiian twist.
Use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella and gouda, for a more complex flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Pizza comes out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Use a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet to get a crispier crust.

- Brush the crust with olive oil before adding the toppings to prevent it from getting soggy.

- Pre-cook the chicken slightly before adding it to the pizza to ensure it's fully cooked in the final product.

- For a smokier flavor, consider using a mix of different BBQ sauces or adding a dash of liquid smoke to your sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve BBQ Chicken Pizza with a side of mixed greens or a fresh vegetable salad to add fiber and nutrients, creating a well-rounded meal.

Cooking Techniques

For an authentic pizzeria taste, try grilling your pizza. Prepare the pizza as usual, then place it on a preheated grill. Close the lid and cook until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted, giving it a unique smoky flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for healthier options or have dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

- Whole wheat or cauliflower crust for a lower-carb option.

- Vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.

- Homemade BBQ sauce to control sugar and sodium levels.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the pizza dough and chicken in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to make your pizza, simply assemble and bake. This can save you time on busy days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your BBQ Chicken Pizza with fresh cilantro or parsley after baking for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of ranch dressing can also add an extra layer of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair your BBQ Chicken Pizza with a light beer or a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the smoky and tangy flavors of the pizza.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single slice of BBQ Chicken Pizza contains roughly 250-300 calories, making it a hearty choice. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of BBQ Chicken Pizza primarily gets its carbohydrates from the pizza crust. Depending on the type of crust used (whole wheat, white flour, gluten-free), the carbohydrate content can vary. On average, a slice of BBQ Chicken Pizza contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the olive oil, cheese, and chicken. Using extra virgin olive oil and part-skim provolone cheese can help keep the saturated fat content lower. On average, a slice contains about 10-15 grams of fat, with 4-6 grams being saturated fat.

Proteins

The chicken breast is the primary source of protein in this recipe, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option. Each slice of BBQ Chicken Pizza provides approximately 15-20 grams of protein, making it a substantial meal that can help keep you full and energized.

Vitamins and minerals

This pizza offers a range of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the red onion and tomato-based BBQ sauce. These ingredients provide vitamin C, potassium, and some B vitamins. The cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, important for bone health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (in the crust), dairy (in the cheese), and potentially soy (in some BBQ sauces). For those with allergies, gluten-free crusts, dairy-free cheese, and soy-free BBQ sauces are available alternatives.

Summary

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a balanced meal offering carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful option that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, offering a unique combination of flavors that can be customized to suit any taste. With its balance of nutrients and the option for various substitutions, it's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on many occasions. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her delicious homemade pizzas. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on cups of tea, she suddenly pulled out a binder filled with handwritten recipes and handed it to me.

"Here, my dear, I want you to have this," Mrs. Jenkins said with a twinkle in her eye. "You've always appreciated good food, and I know you'll put these recipes to good use."

I flipped through the pages of the binder, marveling at the array of recipes that Mrs. Jenkins had collected over the years. There were recipes for traditional Italian dishes, hearty casseroles, and decadent desserts. But one recipe in particular caught my eye - BBQ Chicken Pizza.

As Mrs. Jenkins explained the recipe to me, I could practically taste the tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese melting together on a crispy pizza crust. It was unlike anything I had ever tried before, and I knew I had to make it for my family.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients for the BBQ Chicken Pizza and set to work in my own kitchen. I marinated the chicken in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, grilled it to perfection, and then piled it high on a pizza crust along with caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and a generous amount of melted cheese.

When I pulled the pizza out of the oven, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely mouthwatering. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor and comfort. The tangy barbecue sauce paired perfectly with the savory chicken and salty bacon, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, BBQ Chicken Pizza became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just for a quiet night at home with my husband. Each time I made it, I would think back to that warm summer day with Mrs. Jenkins and feel grateful for the gift of her recipe binder.

Over the years, I have experimented with different variations of the BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe, adding fresh herbs, spicy peppers, and even pineapple for a touch of sweetness. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the core flavors of tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese always remain the same.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will find as much joy and comfort in making and enjoying BBQ Chicken Pizza as I have. And who knows, maybe one day they will pass it on to their own loved ones, creating a delicious tradition that will endure for generations to come.