BBQ Chicken Pita Pizzas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy—on the table in just 20 minutes

• Uses simple, everyday ingredients

• Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings

• A lighter and quicker alternative to traditional pizza dough

• Great for kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 flat pita breads

• 1 cup shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)

• 10 tablespoons barbecue sauce, divided

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• Cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

2. In a small bowl, mix shredded chicken with 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce.

3. Spread 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce evenly onto each pita.

4. Top each pita with mozzarella cheese, the barbecue chicken mixture, and red onion slices.

5. Place the pitas on a large baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, slice, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is 10 minutes, and total time is just 20 minutes.

Variations

• Use naan bread instead of pita for a softer crust.

• Swap mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.

• Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Use leftover turkey instead of chicken.

• Try a honey barbecue or smoky chipotle barbecue sauce for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp. For a quicker option, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid to keep the cheese melty. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pita soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these pizzas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pizzas up to a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake when ready.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Pita Pizzas?

Yes, assemble them without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Any barbecue sauce you enjoy works well—sweet, smoky, or spicy. Choose based on your flavor preference.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, black beans, or a plant-based protein.

How do I keep the pita from getting soggy?

Pre-bake the pita for 3–4 minutes before adding toppings to create a sturdier crust.

Can I cook these on the grill instead of the oven?

Yes, place them on medium heat for 5–7 minutes, covered, until the cheese melts and the crust is crisp.

What other toppings go well with this recipe?

Corn, bell peppers, or jalapeños pair nicely with the barbecue chicken flavors.

Can I use homemade pita bread?

Absolutely! Homemade pita will give the pizzas an even fresher, softer texture.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, use gluten-free pita bread or flatbread as the base.

What sides go well with BBQ Chicken Pita Pizzas?

A simple green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pita Pizzas are a quick, customizable, and family-friendly meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these pita pizzas let you enjoy the taste of barbecue and pizza all in one bite. Whether you keep them classic or experiment with different toppings, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.