Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza : A Tangy Twist You’ll Love!

Who doesn’t love a good pizza? Especially when it’s a delicious mashup of smoky barbeque chicken flavors and the unexpected tang of sauerkraut! This Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut) is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re grilling for a weekend get-together or just whipping up something special on a busy weeknight, this recipe is your go-to for making the best barbecue chicken pizza. Trust me—this recipe is packed with flavor, and the kraut adds that magical touch you didn’t know pizza needed.

Plus, it’s one of those easy-to-follow chicken pizza recipes that anyone can master. Ready to grill up something incredible? Let’s get started!

What is Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut)?

This dish is a unique spin on classic bbq chicken pizza recipes, but instead of traditional toppings, we’re layering it with juicy barbecue chicken, tangy sauerkraut, and a blend of cheeses. The BBQ sauce brings in that smoky, sweet flavor, while the kraut adds a burst of tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken. Cooking this pizza on the grill brings that char and crispy crust that sets grilled pizza recipes apart from oven-baked ones. It’s an unexpected twist on barbecue pizza, making it not only delicious but a real crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients List for Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut)

To make this mouthwatering homemade BBQ chicken pizza, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled or pan-cooked and shredded)
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1 cup of sauerkraut (drained and lightly squeezed)
• 1 pre-made or homemade pizza dough (around 12 inches)
• 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of cornmeal (for dusting the pizza stone or grill)
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-ons:

• 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (for a spicy kick)
• A drizzle of ranch dressing
• Bacon bits for extra savory flavor

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about pizza fatta in casa (homemade pizza) is how versatile it can be! Here are some simple substitutions to suit your preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pizza dough with gluten-free dough for a lighter alternative.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free mozzarella and cheddar alternatives to make this pizza vegan-friendly.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delicious veggie version.
• BBQ Sauce Varieties: You can use a spicy BBQ sauce to make it a spicy BBQ chicken pizza, or opt for a sweeter sauce depending on your taste.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or kraut varieties like garlic-infused kraut to mix up the flavors!

Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut) Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this delicious pizza. It’s one of those easy BBQ chicken pizza recipes, and the results are definitely worth it!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Grill your chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (about 8-10 minutes per side on medium heat).
• Shred the cooked chicken and toss it in ½ cup of BBQ sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough

• Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter.
• Brush the dough lightly with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F), and if you have a pizza stone, preheat it as well.

Step 4: Grill the Pizza Dough

• Transfer the dough to the grill or pizza stone. Grill for 3-4 minutes until the bottom starts to crisp.
• Flip the dough and grill for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

• Spread the BBQ sauce over the crust.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then add BBQ chicken, sauerkraut, and red onions.
• For extra smokiness, sprinkle smoked paprika over the toppings.

Step 6: Finish Grilling the Pizza

• Close the grill lid and let the pizza cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Garnish with cilantro or parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut)

• Overloading the toppings: Too many toppings can make your pizza soggy, so keep it balanced.
• Not draining the kraut: Squeeze the kraut to remove excess moisture for a crispy crust.
• Grilling at too high a heat: Keep your grill at medium heat to avoid burning the dough before the toppings are cooked.

Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut) Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is everything, especially when serving barbecue chicken pizza recipes! Here are a few tips to elevate your dish:

• Slice the pizza into pieces and serve on a rustic wooden board.
• Add small bowls of extra BBQ sauce or ranch for dipping.
• A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color to the pizza.

How to Serve Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut)

This pizza is a great stand-alone dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with sides:

• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the BBQ flavors.
• Pair with grilled veggies for a complete meal.
• Hosting a party? Serve alongside BBQ wings or flatbread to create a spread!

Extra Recipe Tips for Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut)

• Make Ahead: Prepare the BBQ chicken in advance and store in the fridge for quick assembly.
• Storage: Leftover pizza can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Freezer Friendly: You can freeze the pizza dough or even the assembled pizza for easy reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake this pizza instead of grilling it?
Yes! You can bake it in a pizza oven or a conventional oven at 450°F for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great for this BBQ chicken pizza recipe.

What if I don’t like sauerkraut?
No problem! Substitute with pickled onions or thinly sliced pickles for a similar tangy kick.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza (with Kraut) is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pizza, combining the best of barbecue chicken pizza recipes with a tangy kraut surprise. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and perfect for casual dinners or backyard BBQs. Whether you’re making this on the grill or in a pizza oven, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the best grilled chicken pizza recipes out there!