Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite! Our BBQ Chicken Pizza with Applewood Smoked Bacon is not just any pizza; it’s a flavor explosion that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce, all topped off with melty mozzarella and fresh cilantro. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your pizza night? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pizza crust
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup applewood smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating to ensure a crispy crust.
- Prepare your pizza crust by rolling it out on a lightly floured surface to approximately 12-14 inches in diameter. Transfer the crust to a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the BBQ sauce evenly across the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Distribute the shredded cooked chicken uniformly over the BBQ sauce layer.
- Sprinkle the crumbled applewood smoked bacon evenly across the chicken.
- Add thinly sliced red onions over the bacon and chicken.
- Cover the pizza with shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before slicing and serving.
- Cut into 8 slices and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips
- Preheat for Perfection: Make sure to preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and, if using a pizza stone, place it inside during preheating. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden crust we all love.
- Roll it Right: When rolling out your pizza crust, aim for a thickness that suits your preference. A thinner crust will be crispier, while a thicker crust will be chewier.
- Layer with Love: Spread the BBQ sauce evenly, but don’t go overboard—too much sauce can make the pizza soggy. Leave a little border around the edges for a beautiful crust.
- Chicken Choices: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option, or grill your chicken for added flavor. Shredded chicken works best for even distribution.
- Bacon Bliss: For an extra crunch, consider using thick-cut applewood smoked bacon. Cook it until it's crispy before crumbling it over the pizza.
- Cheese It Up: Don’t skimp on the mozzarella! A generous layer will ensure that every bite is cheesy and delicious.
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your pizza while it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden crust and bubbling cheese around the 12-minute mark.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor. Add it just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.
- Slice and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. This will help the cheese set a bit and make for cleaner cuts.
- Pair it Up: Serve your BBQ Chicken Pizza with a refreshing salad or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal that balances the richness of the pizza.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
