Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Pizza

Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Pizza is a mouthwatering blend of tangy barbecue sauce, juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy red onions baked to perfection on a golden sheet pan crust. This one-pan recipe delivers big flavor with minimal mess, making it perfect for weeknights, game days, or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made entirely on one sheet pan for easy cleanup
• Bold BBQ flavor with a delicious mix of savory and sweet
• Great use for leftover or rotisserie chicken
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• A fun twist on classic pizza that feeds a crowd

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought), room temperature
• Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover works great)
• BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Cooked crumbled bacon (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)
• Cornmeal or flour (optional, for dusting pan)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly oil a sheet pan and, if desired, dust with cornmeal or flour.
2. Roll or stretch the pizza dough to fit the sheet pan. Press it to the edges and brush with a little olive oil.
3. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
4. Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce over the dough as the base.
5. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the sauce.
6. Distribute the BBQ chicken evenly across the top, followed by red onion slices and crumbled bacon.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Slice and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use spicy BBQ sauce or add sliced jalapeños for heat
• Swap chicken for pulled pork or cooked shrimp
• Use smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for a cheese twist
• Make it vegetarian with BBQ jackfruit and extra veggies
• Add a drizzle of ranch or extra BBQ sauce after baking

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet for a crispy bottom
• Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain crust texture
• Freeze baked slices for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen in a hot oven

FAQs

What kind of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?

A smoky or sweet BBQ sauce pairs best with the cheese and chicken. Use your favorite!

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time. Let it come to room temp before using.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Use a light hand with the BBQ sauce and preheat the oven thoroughly for a crispy crust.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prep and assemble it ahead, then bake just before serving. For best texture, avoid baking in advance.

What cheese melts best on BBQ chicken pizza?

Mozzarella for gooey texture and cheddar for sharp flavor are great choices.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pizza dough base. Many stores carry ready-made versions.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the bacon or use a plant-based version.

How do I get a crispy crust on a sheet pan?

Use a hot oven, don’t overload with toppings, and lightly oil or dust the pan for texture.

Can I grill this pizza instead of baking?

Yes, you can grill the dough briefly on one side, then top it and finish grilling with indirect heat.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken pizza?

Try a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Pizza is an easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving pizza with a smoky twist. Customize it to your taste and enjoy big flavor in every bite.

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