Who needs to venture out when you can create a delectable BBQ Chicken Pizza right in the comfort of your own home? Originally popularized by California Pizza Kitchen, this tantalizing pizza can now grace your taste buds without leaving your kitchen.
As a devoted pizza-loving family, we have our fair share of favorites, including this BBQ Chicken Pizza, alongside other beloved recipes like White Pizza, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, and Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza. However, despite my reputation as a seasoned cook, the assumption that my children have adventurous palates couldn’t be further from reality. In truth, they are quite particular, making it a rarity to find a dish that suits all of their tastes. But pizza, oh glorious pizza, holds a universal charm that captivates their hearts and taste buds alike.
While pepperoni pizza never ceases to satisfy, I enjoy introducing some variety into our pizza nights. That’s why I’ve created an assortment of pizza recipes here on Taste and Tell. Out of all these options, one recipe reigns supreme: the BBQ Chicken Pizza.
Key Takeaways
The Essence of BBQ Chicken Pizza
The inspiration for this pizza recipe stems from the iconic BBQ Chicken Pizza served at California Pizza Kitchen. However, I’m proud to say that my version boasts even more flavor, affordability, and the convenience of preparing it in your pajamas at home.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Chicken and Flavor
- Chicken: Opt for chicken breast or thighs to embrace your preference.
- BBQ Sauce: Select a barbecue sauce that resonates with your taste buds. Sweet Baby Ray’s is my personal choice, but any barbecue sauce will do.
- Olive Oil: Use olive oil or your preferred cooking oil to cook the chicken.
- Pizza Dough: While my homemade pizza dough is optimal, you can also utilize store-bought dough.
- Cheese: For an authentic replication, combine mozzarella and smoked gouda. However, if gouda is elusive, mozzarella will suffice.
- Red Onion: The red onion adds a crucial component to the pizza’s overall taste, but feel free to omit it if you’re not an onion enthusiast.
- Cilantro: Add cilantro as a finishing touch, allowing those who appreciate its unique flavor to sprinkle it on their individual slices.
Mastering the Art of BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Begin by marinating the chicken in half of the BBQ sauce. Although two hours suffices, extending the marinating time enhances the flavors.
- Preheat your oven, ensuring that a pizza stone, if used, is given at least 30 minutes to reach the ideal temperature.
- Cook the chicken in a sauté pan, adding a touch of olive oil.
- Shape the dough into a circle, either by rolling or stretching it.
- Spread the remaining BBQ sauce onto the crust.
- Layer half of the mozzarella cheese and all of the gouda cheese (or solely mozzarella) onto the crust.
- Top the cheese with the marinated chicken, followed by the onions and the remaining mozzarella.
- Bake the pizza until the cheese becomes irresistibly molten and the crust gains a golden hue.
- Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle it with cilantro for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks for Pizza Perfection
- While premade pizza dough is a readily available option, I highly recommend savoring the experience of creating your own. My tried-and-true pizza dough recipe, backed by glowing reviews, will elevate your final product.
- For seamless pizza transfer to a pizza stone, consider using parchment paper, simplifying the process and minimizing potential mishaps.
- Pressed for time? Utilize pre-cooked, shredded chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce.
- Smoked gouda closely aligns with the flavor profile of California Pizza Kitchen. However, regular gouda is a suitable alternative (though I must admit, smoked gouda has a special place in my heart).
- California Pizza Kitchen offers the option to include bacon, a savory temptation I’ve yet to personally explore. Nevertheless, bacon is a reliably mouthwatering addition to any culinary creation.
- Store any leftovers wrapped in foil within the refrigerator. When reheating, my personal preference is employing the stovetop rather than the microwave, preserving the pizza’s original texture and flavors.
A World of Pizza Possibilities
Expand your pizza horizons with these tantalizing recipes:
- Teriyaki Chicken Pizza
- Sausage and Peppers Pizza
- Antipasto Pizza
- Clam Pizza with Bacon
- Blue Cheese and Bacon Pizza
- Egg Pizza with Creamed Spinach
In conclusion, seize the opportunity to indulge in the mouthwatering delight of BBQ Chicken Ranch Pizza. The fusion of flavors, the satisfaction of crafting your own pizza, and the convenience of relishing it within the comfort of your home amalgamate into an experience that is both enticing and irresistible. So, why not embark on this culinary journey and allow your taste buds to revel in the magic that is BBQ Chicken Pizza?
Want to savor the best BBQ Chicken Pizza? Check out the Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ’s recipe at Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
