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If you are craving a fun twist on classic pizza, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Combining the smoky tang of barbecue sauce with tender chicken, crispy bacon, juicy pineapple, and melty mozzarella cheese, this pizza hits every flavor note you could want. It’s bright, comforting, and loaded with textures that make each bite feel like a mini celebration. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, this recipe effortlessly brings the taste of the islands right to your kitchen table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one contributes its own unbeatable flavor, texture, or pop of color, making the final pie vibrant and satisfying. From the tangy barbecue sauce to the sweet pineapple tidbits, these ingredients come together in perfect harmony.
- 1 lb pizza dough: The sturdy base that crisps up beautifully, providing a chewy crust with a golden finish.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided): A tangy, smoky spread that ties all the toppings together with rich flavor.
- 2 small cooked chicken breasts (chopped): Tender, protein-packed chunks that soak up the barbecue sauce for a juicy bite.
- 3 slices cooked bacon (chopped): Adds a smoky crunch that elevates every mouthful.
- 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly, creating that gooey, cheesy indulgence we all love.
- ½ cup pineapple tidbits: The sweet contrast that brightens the entire pizza.
- Thinly sliced red onion: Offers a subtle sharpness and color contrast that balances richness.
- Chopped cilantro (optional): Fresh herbaceous notes for a flavor lift if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Black pepper: A simple seasoning that brings out all the other flavors without overpowering them.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to a sizzling 450°F. If you have a pizza stone, pop it in now so it gets nice and hot—it helps create that crispy crust we always crave. Meanwhile, mix your chopped cooked chicken breasts with a quarter cup of barbecue sauce. This step ensures every chicken piece is juicy and packed with flavor before they hit the pizza.
Step 2: Shape and Sauce the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough into a circle about 12 to 14 inches wide. Don’t stress about it being perfect—rustic shapes are part of the charm! Next, take the remaining barbecue sauce and slather it evenly over the dough, setting a smoky, tangy foundation that will make every bite sing.
Step 3: Layer on the Goodness
Start layering your pizza by sprinkling one cup of shredded mozzarella evenly on the sauced dough. Then, spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, followed by chopped bacon and pineapple tidbits. Scatter thin slices of red onion over the top to add a pop of color and gentle sharpness. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a dusting of black pepper for seasoning.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your fully loaded pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 10 to 14 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly. Let it rest for about five minutes so the toppings can set, making slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh chopped cilantro makes a wonderful finishing touch, adding a bright, herbaceous lift that contrasts beautifully with the smoky, sweet layers beneath. If you prefer something milder, just a sprinkle of extra black pepper or a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce on the side can elevate individual slices.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette—something fresh to balance the rich cheese and barbecue. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or even some classic garlic bread rounds out the experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe as an appetizer by cutting it into small squares or strips. You can also experiment by using flatbread instead of traditional pizza dough to turn it into a casual, shareable snack that’s perfect for parties or game nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pizza cools, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza. Wrap the whole pizza tightly in foil and plastic wrap, or freeze individual slices separated by parchment paper. Store in the freezer for up to two months for maximum freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. This method preserves crispness in the crust and melts the cheese nicely without making it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple tidbits add a juicy, vibrant sweetness. Just be sure to drain any extra juice to keep the crust from getting soggy.
Is it better to cook the chicken before adding it to the pizza?
Yes, since pizza bakes quickly, having pre-cooked chicken ensures it remains tender and safe to eat without drying out.
Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the chicken and bacon and add extra pineapple, red onion, and perhaps some bell peppers or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Choose a barbecue sauce you love, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. The key is that it complements the savory and sweet elements of the pizza without overpowering them.
How do I get a crispy crust at home?
Using a pizza stone and preheating it ensures a crispier crust. Also, avoid adding too much sauce or juicy toppings directly on the dough to keep it from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe is one of those dishes that always feels like a treat. It balances bold flavors with comforting textures, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home, too!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza combines a tangy barbecue sauce base with tender chicken, smoky bacon, sweet pineapple tidbits, and melty mozzarella cheese, all atop a crispy homemade pizza crust. With a quick 29-minute preparation and baking time, this crowd-pleasing pizza serves 8 and offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, finished with a fresh pop of red onion and optional cilantro for brightness.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
Toppings
- 2 small cooked chicken breasts, chopped
- 3 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pineapple tidbits
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up during the preheating process for a crispier crust.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken breasts with ¼ cup of the barbecue sauce. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Roll Out Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-14 inch diameter circle, ensuring an even thickness for perfect baking.
- Assemble Pizza: Spread the remaining ¾ cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Layer the chicken mixture, chopped bacon, pineapple tidbits, and thinly sliced red onion evenly on top. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese and seasoning with black pepper to taste. Add chopped cilantro if using for a fresh herbal touch.
- Bake: Transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven (use a pizza peel to slide onto the stone or a baking sheet). Bake for 10-14 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set the toppings before slicing. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust but is optional.
- Pre-cooked chicken can be grilled, baked, or rotisserie style based on preference.
- Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce according to your taste for more or less tanginess.
- For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños before baking.
- Leftover pizza can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best results.
