BBQ Chicken Pizza Cilantro

The smell of BBQ sauce hitting hot crust always reminds me of Friday nights at my friend Sarah's apartment, where we'd crowd around her tiny oven waiting for that first bubbling pizza. She taught me that the secret is letting the red onions get slightly charred in spots. Now every time I make this, I can practically hear our terrible karaoke singing in the background.

Last summer I made this for my dad, who claims to hate cilantro in everything. He picked off every green leaf, took one bite, and actually went back for the garnish. Sometimes I toss the chicken in extra sauce before topping it, which creates these incredible sticky, caramelized bits that everyone fights over.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: Store-bought works fine, but let it come to room temperature for easier stretching
• Olive oil: Creates a barrier that keeps the crust from getting soggy under all that sauce
• BBQ sauce: Pick something smoky rather than too sweet, it balances better with the cheese
• Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time, or use leftover grilled breast
• Mozzarella cheese: The melt factor here is non-negotiable for that classic pull
• Smoked gouda: This is the MVP ingredient that makes people ask what's different
• Red onion: Thin slices become sweet and mellow when they hit the high heat
• Fresh cilantro: Adds brightness that cuts through all the rich, smoky flavors

Instructions

Get your oven seriously hot:

Crank it to 475°F (245°C) and if you have a pizza stone, let it preheat inside for at least 30 minutes while you prep.

Stretch the dough:

On a floured surface, work the dough into a 12-inch round, then transfer it to parchment paper on a peel or baking sheet.

Build the base:

Brush the dough with olive oil, then spread the BBQ sauce evenly, leaving that half-inch border for a crispy edge.

Layer on the goodness:

Scatter the chicken first, then cover with both cheeses, making sure some pieces hit the crust edges.

Add the onions and bake:

Arrange the red onion slices on top and slide the pizza into the oven for 12-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and browns.

Finish with flair:

Let it rest for just 2 minutes, then drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and scatter fresh cilantro before slicing.

Save

This became my go-to for impromptu dinner parties because it feels fancy but takes almost zero effort. Last month my neighbor smelled it baking and knocked on my door with a six-pack, just hoping for a slice.

Perfecting the Crust

I've learned that brushing the dough with oil before saucing is the difference between a sad, soggy bottom and something you actually want to eat. The oil creates a waterproof seal that keeps all those wet ingredients from turning the crust into mush.

Make It Yours

Sometimes I add sliced jalapeños when I want more heat, or swap the gouda for sharp cheddar when that's what's in the fridge. Once I used leftover pulled pork instead of chicken and honestly, it might have been even better.

Serving Ideas

A cold lager or zesty white wine cuts through the richness perfectly. I like to serve it with a simple green salad dressed with something acidic to balance all the smoky, sweet flavors.

• Let the pizza rest for 2 minutes before slicing
• Extra BBQ sauce on the side is never a bad idea
• Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a skillet

Save

There's something about that first bite, with all the flavors hitting at once, that makes even a Tuesday night feel like a celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese is best for this pizza?

Shredded mozzarella combines well with smoked gouda or cheddar for a rich, melty texture and smoky flavor.

→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, homemade or store-bought pizza dough can be rolled out before baking to save time.

→ How can I enhance the chicken’s flavor?

Toss the cooked chicken in additional BBQ sauce before adding to the pizza for extra smokiness.

→ What's a good beverage pairing with this dish?

A zesty Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager pairs beautifully, balancing the smoky and tangy notes.

→ Is there a way to add some heat to this pizza?

Sliced jalapeños can be added for a spicy kick without overpowering other flavors.