Craving a pizza night but want something beyond the ordinary? Then get ready to drool because this BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal! This recipe is packed with smoky BBQ flavor, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and all the cheesy goodness you expect from a delicious pizza. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike. Prepare for a flavor adventure that will elevate your pizza game to a whole new level! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
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For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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For the BBQ Chicken Topping:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add dry ingredients: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
- Preheat & prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and roll it out to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer to the prepared pan.
- Add the toppings: Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then top with shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and red onion (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool & serve: Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza:
- Homemade or store-bought dough: Feel free to use store-bought pizza dough to save time.
- Pre-cooked chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures your pizza is ready faster.
- Bacon variations: Experiment with different types of bacon, like smoked bacon or pepper bacon, for an extra flavor boost.
- Cheese combinations: Get creative with your cheese choices! Try adding Monterey Jack, provolone, or a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick dinner or a fun get-together. It's a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. This healthy and easy recipe makes for a perfect quick dinner idea, and is one of the best recipes for a satisfying and flavorful pizza experience. Enjoy!