If you are craving a stunning fusion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors on a crispy crust, you have to try this Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe. This pizza is an exciting twist on the classic BBQ chicken pie, where juicy pineapple chunks and fiery jalapeño slices elevate the savory BBQ chicken and melted mozzarella cheese to new heights. The combination bursts with flavor in every bite, making it a guaranteed hit whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just indulging yourself. It’s quick, vibrant, and wonderfully satisfying—a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect any time of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe comes together with a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, each playing a crucial role in balancing the flavors and textures. From the tender chicken and creamy mozzarella to the bright pineapple and spicy jalapeño, every item adds a special touch that makes this pizza unforgettable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 1 pound for tender, juicy chicken that’s easy to shred and loads this pizza with protein.
- Fresh pineapple chunks: Sweet and juicy, these add a tropical brightness that perfectly counters the spiciness.
- Medium fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced: Provides just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- BBQ sauce: Use 1/2 cup of your favorite sauce to coat the chicken and as a pizza base, infusing smoky, tangy goodness throughout.
- Pizza dough: One pound of dough rolled out to a 12-inch round creates the perfect crispy yet chewy foundation.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Two cups melt beautifully into a bubbly, gooey layer that ties all the toppings together.
- Olive oil: Just a tablespoon for cooking the chicken and adding a subtle richness.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note as a bright garnish to finish the pizza.
How to Make Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature of 475°F (245°C) to ensure that perfect crispy crust. Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a neat 12-inch round. This size is just right for balancing all those flavorful toppings while maintaining a manageable thickness for a crispy crust.
Step 2: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts lightly and cook them for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. This shredding is key because it ensures the chicken will distribute evenly and mix well with the BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Coat Chicken in BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with half a cup of BBQ sauce until every piece is well-coated and glistening. Spread some additional BBQ sauce over the rolled-out dough as the pizza’s flavorful base, then scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, setting the stage for your vibrant toppings.
Step 4: Add Pineapple and Jalapeño
Distribute fresh pineapple chunks and thin slices of jalapeño evenly over the cheese. This layering not only enhances visual appeal but also guarantees that each slice delivers a perfect bite with sweet, spicy, and cheesy harmony.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the crust to develop a golden, crispy edge and the cheese to be melted and bubbly. The high oven temperature allows for rapid cooking that locks in moisture and flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let your pizza cool for just a few minutes before slicing it up. If you enjoy fresh herbs, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh herbal finish that complements the tangy barbecue and spicy heat beautifully.
How to Serve Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
The Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe shines best with fresh garnishes. Cilantro is a fantastic choice as it adds a lively green contrast and a hint of citrusy freshness to the rich barbecue flavors. Feel free to add a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a few thin avocado slices for a creamy balance.
Side Dishes
Pairing this pizza is a breeze. A crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or a side of tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy pizza. For a heartier meal, consider serving roasted sweet potato fries or grilled corn with a touch of chili lime seasoning to echo the jalapeño’s zing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your pizza on a rustic wooden board or colorful ceramic plate that contrasts with the vibrant pineapple and jalapeño hues. If you’re hosting a gathering, slice the pizza into smaller squares or “party bites,” making it easy for everyone to grab and enjoy a taste of the Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe’s delightful flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pizza should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator. This can keep your slices fresh for up to 3 to 4 days while maintaining that delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Freezing
If you want to save pizza for a longer time, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and then place them in freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pizza retains much of its original quality and can be stored for up to 1 month.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe is using a skillet over medium heat or a 375°F (190°C) oven. This helps the crust stay crispy while warming the toppings evenly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that coveted crispy texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the pineapple chunks very well to avoid making the pizza soggy. Fresh pineapple is preferred for its brightness, but canned works in a pinch.
How spicy is this pizza with jalapeños?
The jalapeños add a moderate level of heat that balances nicely with the sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ sauce. If you prefer milder flavors, remove the seeds before slicing or reduce the amount.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute your regular pizza dough with a gluten-free version. Many stores carry excellent gluten-free pizza crusts that hold up well under toppings and baking.
Is it necessary to cook the chicken before adding it to the pizza?
Cooking the chicken beforehand ensures it is juicy and safely cooked through. Since pizza baking times are relatively short, raw chicken would not cook evenly or thoroughly on the pizza.
What BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?
You can use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or tangy. A balanced sauce with moderate sweetness complements the pineapple and jalapeño best without overpowering the toppings.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of exciting flavors coming together in harmony. Whether you’re craving something sweet and spicy or simply want to impress your loved ones with a homemade pizza that stands out, this recipe delivers all the yum you’re looking for. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite!
Print
Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pineapple Jalapeño BBQ Chicken Pizza combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors for a deliciously unique homemade pizza experience. Tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with fresh pineapple chunks and thinly sliced jalapeños on a gooey mozzarella cheese base. Crisp crust baked to golden perfection makes this a crowd-pleasing recipe ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Pizza
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 medium fresh jalapeño, sliced thinly
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round shape, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred it using two forks.
- Toss Chicken in BBQ Sauce: Combine the shredded chicken with the 1/2 cup BBQ sauce in a bowl, mixing thoroughly to coat all the pieces evenly.
- Assemble Pizza: Spread a thin layer of the remaining BBQ sauce over the rolled-out dough. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, layer the pineapple chunks and thin jalapeño slices on top of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the heat level.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized flavor profile.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding for safety.
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to avoid cheese spillover.
- Fresh cilantro adds a bright finish but can be omitted if preferred.
