After a long day at work, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. But that doesn’t mean dinner has to be boring! I stumbled upon this quick and delightful BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza that has become a go-to in my home. Just imagine the sweet aroma of barbecue sauce mingling with melting mozzarella cheese as it bakes to perfection—it’s pure comfort food!
Using rotisserie chicken makes this dish not only fast but also family-friendly, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something home-cooked without the hassle. With its crispy French bread base, tender pulled chicken, and zesty red onions, each bite is a harmony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this pizza delivers all the satisfaction without the fuss. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that lets you craft a delicious homemade pizza in just 15 minutes!
Why is BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza a Must-Try?
Delightful flavors: The smoky barbecue sauce perfectly complements the melty mozzarella and tender chicken, creating a taste sensation.
Quick cooking time: With just 15 minutes needed, you’ll be enjoying your pizza in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!
Family favorite: Its mouthwatering combination is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to meal option.
Simple ingredients: You likely already have rotisserie chicken and basic pantry items on hand, making this pizza super convenient.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with extra toppings like jalapeños or bacon for a delicious twist.
This BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to bring homemade comfort to your dinner table!
BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Ingredients
Here’s what you need:
For the Base
- Loaf of French Bread – Use a fresh loaf for the best texture and crunch.
For the Toppings
- BBQ Sauce (3/4 cup, divided) – Adds sweetness and moisture; sugar-free options work well too!
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Provides that creamy, melty goodness; pre-shredded saves time!
- Cooked Chicken (1 cup, shredded) – For main protein; rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick prep.
- Red Onion (1/4 cup, chopped) – Adds a tangy crunch; green onions can be a milder alternative.
- Cilantro (1-2 tablespoons, chopped) – Fresh flavor enhancer; omit if you’re not a fan.
Now that you have everything ready, you are just a few minutes away from enjoying an irresistible BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza that’s sure to be a hit!
How to Make BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pizza bakes evenly and achieves that irresistible golden crust.
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Slice the Bread: Carefully slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. Keep the cuts clean and even to form the perfect base for your pizza.
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Spread the Sauce: Generously spread the BBQ sauce evenly across both halves of the bread, making sure to reserve 2 tablespoons for drizzling later. This layer will infuse a delightful flavor into every bite.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle about 3/4 of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the BBQ sauce. This gooey layer acts as a cushion for the toppings and enhances the overall flavor.
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Distribute Chicken and Onions: Evenly distribute the pulled chicken and chopped red onions over the cheesy layer. Make sure each slice has a bit of everything for balanced bites.
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Top with More Cheese: Finish off by topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This creates a melty, heavenly cheese blanket that binds all the flavors together.
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Bake to Perfection: Place your assembled pizza on a baking sheet and bake for 12-17 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when the aroma fills your kitchen.
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Cool and Garnish: Allow the pizza to cool for about 2 minutes. Then, garnish with chopped cilantro and drizzle the reserved BBQ sauce before slicing into delectable pieces.
Optional: Serve with a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza
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Room Temperature: Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain crispiness.
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Freezer: If you need to store it longer, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: For reheating, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the crust gets crispy again.
BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Variations
Let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful pizza with these fun and flavorful twists!
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Spicy Buffalo: Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce to add a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds. The spicy aura creates an exhilarating contrast to the creamy mozzarella!
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Garlic Bread Base: Use garlic bread instead of plain French bread for a robust flavor boost. This simple change elevates your pizza into an aromatic experience that’s hard to resist!
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Veggie Delight: Load up your pizza with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and color. Each bite becomes a delicious adventure bursting with garden-fresh flavors.
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Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda for a multi-dimensional cheesy goodness. This creamy combination will make every slice even more indulgent – it’s a cheese lover’s dream!
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Barbecue Pulled Pork: Substitute rotisserie chicken with barbecue pulled pork for a hearty, smoky twist. The sweet and savory flavors meld perfectly, creating a juicy treat everyone will enjoy.
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Tropical Vibe: Add pineapple chunks and jalapeños for a sweet and spicy taste sensation. This combination will transport you to a sunny beach with each mouthful!
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Gluten-Free Option: Opt for gluten-free bread to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. You can still enjoy all the cheesy, saucy goodness on a gluten-free base!
These variations not only enhance the flavor but also give your BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza a unique touch. Enjoy experimenting!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza
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Proper Preheating: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) for even baking; this prevents soggy bread and guarantees a crispy crust.
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Bread Choice Matters: Use a fresh loaf of French bread for the best texture. Stale bread won’t hold up well under the toppings.
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Cheese Layering: When adding the cheese, reserve some for the top; this creates a melty, appealing cheese blanket that binds your BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza beautifully.
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Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload with toppings; too much can make the pizza soggy. Stick to the recipe for optimal results and easy slicing.
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Cooling Time: Allow the pizza to cool for 2 minutes before slicing. This quick cooling prevents cheese slippage and makes serving easier.
Enjoy this quick and delicious BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza that brings together family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the toppings—shredded chicken, chopped red onions, and even the BBQ sauce—up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and quality, keep the assembled pizza components separate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to enjoy, simply slice the French bread, spread on the sauce, layer the cheese, and distribute the prepped toppings. Bake for about 12-17 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious homemade pizza ready in no time, making busy weeknights a breeze!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delightful side dishes that complement the savory goodness of your pizza.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza.
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Garlic Bread Sticks: Soft, buttery garlic bread sticks offer a warm, indulgent side that everyone loves, perfect for dipping!
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Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw provide a nice contrast to the gooey pizza, adding texture and flavor.
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Crudité Platter: Colorful veggie sticks and a zesty dip bring a fresh crunch and healthy vibe to your meal, making it well-rounded.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries, with their natural sweetness, contrast beautifully with the smoky BBQ flavor of the pizza.
Each of these accompaniments enhances the overall dining experience, making your BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza night truly special!
BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Recipe FAQs
What type of French bread should I use for the pizza?
Absolutely! For the best texture and crunch, use a fresh loaf of French bread. Stale or pre-sliced bread may not hold up well under the toppings and can lead to a soggy base.
How should I store leftovers from the BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza?
For optimal freshness, allow the pizza to cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a crisp texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore its crispy crust.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your pizza turns out soggy, reduce the toppings or make sure to use fresh bread. For uneven melting cheese, ensure your oven is preheated properly and consider covering the pizza with aluminum foil during the first half of baking. If you find the cheese browning too quickly, cover it with a piece of foil until it’s nearly done.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Yes, if you’re making this pizza for a family member with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that rotisserie chicken may contain preservatives or additives. If someone has a dairy allergy, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, if you have pets, avoid sharing any leftovers that contain onion, as it can be toxic to dogs and cats.
What can I substitute if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce or prefer a different flavor, consider using buffalo sauce for a spicy kick or marinara sauce for a more traditional pizza experience. You could even try a combination of sweet chili sauce and soy sauce for a unique flavor twist!
BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza Ready in 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Carefully slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise.
- Spread the BBQ sauce evenly across both halves of the bread, reserving 2 tablespoons for later.
- Sprinkle about 3/4 of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Distribute the pulled chicken and chopped red onions over the cheesy layer.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 12-17 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Allow the pizza to cool for about 2 minutes, garnish with cilantro, and drizzle with reserved BBQ sauce before slicing.
