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Avatar photoJohnson Maya

BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe (CPK Style)

Craving that iconic California Pizza Kitchen vibe? This bbq chicken pizza recipe delivers smoky grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, gooey smoked mozzarella, crisp red onions, and fresh cilantro on a perfect crust. Easy, customizable, and better than takeout—your new go-to for pizza nights!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 421
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (454g) pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
  • 3/4 cup plus 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, divided
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 10 oz)
  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese (optional)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Equipment

  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Rolling pin
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. bbq chicken pizza recipe recipeCard1
  2. Step 1: Preheat oven to 475°F with pizza stone inside for 45 minutes. Stretch dough to 12-14 inches on floured surface, transfer to parchment, brush edges with oil, rest 5 minutes until pliable.
  3. Step 2: Spread 3/4 cup BBQ sauce evenly, leaving 1/2-inch border. Toss chicken in 1/4 cup sauce, layer over base for juicy distribution.
  4. Step 3: Top with cheeses, bake 10 minutes until bubbling. Add onions, bake 4-5 more minutes to golden crisp. Finish with cilantro, rest 5 minutes, slice.

Nutrition

Calories: 421 | Carbohydrates: 35 | Protein: 23 | Fat: 19 | Fiber: 2 | Sugar: 8

Notes

STORAGE: Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container. Reheat 375°F 8-10 min. Freeze 2 months, thaw and rebake.
MAKE AHEAD: Grill chicken and slice onions day before, store chilled.
SUBSTITUTIONS: Whole wheat dough, low-fat cheese, turkey or tofu. GF dough swap 1:1.
PRO TIPS: Use smoked cheese for CPK authenticity. High-heat preheat ensures crispy bottom. Pat chicken dry to avoid sogginess.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Wedge slices with ranch dip, Caesar salad side. Garnish extra cilantro, drizzle BBQ.
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