This BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizza is a fun twist on traditional pizza! Made with a crispy tortilla base, it’s topped with tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, cheese, and any veggies you love.
It’s quick to make, and you can whip it up in no time. Perfect for a movie night or a quick meal. I personally enjoy adding pineapple for a sweet touch—yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortilla: A large flour tortilla forms the base of this pizza. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free tortilla or a cauliflower crust instead. I love using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce – sweet, smoky, or tangy. If you’re low on BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup with a dash of vinegar and a sprinkle of spices can work well in a pinch. My personal favorite is a chipotle BBQ sauce for a little kick!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. In place of chicken, try shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian option or use leftover turkey for a seasonal twist.
Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to mix it up! Cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda can add more flavor. Some people enjoy adding a sprinkle of feta for an extra tang.
Veggies: Red onions add a nice crunch, but you can swap them for green onions or omit them entirely. For extra veggies, consider bell peppers, spinach, or corn. Personalize according to what’s in your fridge!
How Do I Get a Crispy Tortilla Base?
Getting that perfect crispy tortilla base is key to a great pizza experience! Start by preheating your oven properly and using the right technique when preparing the tortilla.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brushing both sides of the tortilla with olive oil helps it crisp up beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
- Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) so the tortilla gets that quick, crisp texture.
- Use a Baking Stone or Sheet: If you have a pizza stone, use it! If not, a baking sheet works just fine—just make sure it’s hot when you place the tortilla on it.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your pizza as it cooks. It generally takes 8-12 minutes; the key is looking for bubbling cheese and crispy edges.
BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large flour tortilla (10-12 inch)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers or jalapeños (optional, for mild heat)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (optional, for brushing tortilla)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizza takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-12 minutes to cook, making it ready to enjoy in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick snack or an easy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting that crispy tortilla base!
2. Prepare the Tortilla:
If you’d like a crispy tortilla, lightly brush both sides of the tortilla with olive oil. This step is optional but recommended for extra crunch!
3. Assemble the Base:
Place the tortilla on a baking sheet or pizza stone. This will be your pizza base.
4. Add BBQ Sauce:
Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the tortilla, leaving a little border around the edges for a nice crust.
5. Add Chicken:
Sprinkle the shredded cooked chicken evenly over the BBQ sauce. Make sure to distribute it well to get a bite of chicken in every slice!
6. Top with Veggies:
Add the sliced red onions and any banana peppers or jalapeños you like, spreading them evenly across the top of your pizza.
7. Add Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Feel free to be generous—cheesy goodness is always welcome!
8. Bake Your Pizza:
Put the assembled pizza in your preheated oven. Bake for about 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortilla are crispy.
9. Finish and Garnish:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for that extra pop of flavor!
10. Slice and Serve:
Let the pizza cool for a minute, then slice it into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizza!
Can I Use a Different Type of Tortilla?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat tortillas, corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or even a cauliflower crust if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the crust.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the tortilla stays crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, shredded jackfruit or cooked black beans make great substitutes. You can also use cooked sausage or pepperoni if you’d like to add more savory flavors!
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tortilla with the BBQ sauce, chicken, and toppings, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Just remember to bake it straight from the fridge—may need an extra minute or two in the oven!
