Irresistible Chicken Pizza Recipes: Your New Favorite Homemade Meal

There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade pizza. The aroma of baking dough, the bubbling cheese, the freedom to pile on your favorite toppings—it’s a meal that brings people together. And when it comes to protein-packed, flavor-rich options, chicken pizza stands out as a go-to for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy movie nights at home.

Growing up, Friday nights meant homemade pizza in our house. It was the one meal we could all agree on. Over the years, the basic pepperoni-and-cheese evolved into more adventurous creations, and chicken pizza quickly became a family favorite. Whether it was tangy BBQ chicken, spicy buffalo, or a creamy white sauce version, the variety was endless—and always delicious.

This post dives deep into some of the most popular, flavor-packed chicken pizza recipes you can make at home. From the classic BBQ chicken pizza to gourmet white sauce variations and healthy grilled options, there’s a recipe here for every craving and occasion.

Why Chicken is the Perfect Pizza Topping

Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins to top a pizza. It absorbs marinades and seasonings beautifully, and it pairs well with a wide range of sauces and cheeses. Unlike heavier meats like sausage or bacon, chicken offers a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, chicken complements both traditional red sauce pizzas and non-traditional bases like barbecue, ranch, or alfredo. This makes it an ideal ingredient whether you’re craving bold and spicy, smoky and sweet, or rich and creamy.

Must-Have Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Pizza

Before diving into the recipes, it’s helpful to have a list of essential ingredients that make any chicken pizza successful.

For the Dough:

• All-purpose or bread flour

• Active dry yeast or instant yeast

• Warm water

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Sugar (optional, for yeast activation)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

• Olive oil

• Garlic

• Salt and pepper

• Optional marinades (BBQ, buffalo sauce, Italian dressing)

Common Toppings:

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Red onions

• Bell peppers

• Fresh basil

• Tomatoes

• Mushrooms

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese

• Spinach

Sauce Options:

• Classic marinara or pizza sauce

• BBQ sauce

• Buffalo sauce

• Garlic parmesan or alfredo sauce

• Pesto

Classic BBQ Chicken Pizza

Flavor Profile: Sweet, smoky, and savory

This recipe became famous thanks to California Pizza Kitchen, and now it’s a staple in many households. The tangy BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and red onions for the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza dough

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for the chicken)

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven to heat up.

2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a pizza peel or baking sheet.

3. Toss the cooked chicken with 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce.

4. Spread the remaining BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.

5. Top with mozzarella, BBQ chicken, and red onions.

6. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.

7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Creamy White Chicken Pizza

Flavor Profile: Rich, garlicky, and indulgent

For those who prefer white sauce over red, this pizza is a dream. It uses a creamy garlic parmesan base and is topped with spinach, mushrooms, and seasoned chicken.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza dough

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 3/4 cup milk

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced

• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms

• 1/2 cup fresh spinach

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.

2. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Add parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until thickened.

3. Roll out the dough and place it on your baking sheet or stone.

4. Spread the white sauce over the dough, then top with mozzarella, chicken, mushrooms, and spinach.

5. Bake at 475°F for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Flavor Profile: Fiery, tangy, and bold

This pizza brings all the flavors of your favorite buffalo wings straight to your plate—with none of the mess. Add ranch or blue cheese drizzle for that authentic experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza dough

• 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• 1 1/2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or drizzle of ranch

• Thinly sliced celery (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter and toss with chicken.

2. Roll out the dough and brush with a little olive oil.

3. Spread a light layer of buffalo sauce, then top with mozzarella and buffalo chicken.

4. Add blue cheese crumbles or drizzle ranch over top.

5. Bake at 475°F for 10–12 minutes.

6. Top with fresh celery slices before serving, if desired.

Mediterranean Chicken Pizza

Flavor Profile: Fresh, herby, and tangy

This pizza combines the brightness of the Mediterranean with the heartiness of grilled chicken. Feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes add bold contrast to the tender chicken and mozzarella.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza dough

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese

• Fresh oregano or basil

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil and garlic, and brush over the pizza dough.

2. Add mozzarella, then layer with chicken, tomatoes, olives, and red onion.

3. Sprinkle feta over top and bake at 475°F for 12–14 minutes.

4. Garnish with fresh oregano or basil before serving.

Grilled Chicken Pesto Pizza

Flavor Profile: Herbaceous, nutty, and savory

If you’re looking for a unique twist, try using pesto as your base sauce. It’s vibrant, packed with basil and parmesan, and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken and mozzarella.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza dough

• 1/2 cup basil pesto

• 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• Optional: arugula for topping

Instructions:

1. Roll out dough and spread pesto evenly over the base.

2. Add mozzarella, grilled chicken, and cherry tomatoes.

3. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

4. Bake at 475°F for 10–12 minutes.

5. Top with fresh arugula just before serving, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Homemade Chicken Pizza

1. Use Pre-Cooked Chicken

Always use pre-cooked chicken. Raw chicken won’t have time to fully cook on a pizza and can lead to food safety concerns.

2. Don’t Overload Toppings

Too many toppings can make the crust soggy and the pizza hard to bake evenly. Less is more when it comes to achieving a crisp, well-cooked crust.

3. Bake at a High Temperature

High heat ensures the crust cooks quickly and evenly. Aim for at least 475°F (245°C), and preheat the oven for 30 minutes if you’re using a pizza stone.

4. Rest Your Dough

Letting your dough rest after kneading helps it become elastic and easier to stretch. Cover and let rise for at least an hour at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead Dough: Pizza dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before using.

• Freezing: Par-bake crusts for 5–7 minutes, then cool and freeze for future use. Add toppings later and bake directly from frozen.

• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

  Print

  Irresistible Chicken Pizza Recipes: Your New Favorite Homemade Meal

  

  Print Recipe

  Sweet, smoky, and savory, this BBQ Chicken Pizza is the perfect homemade twist on a takeout favorite. With a tangy barbecue sauce base, tender chicken, red onions, and melted mozzarella, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

  • Author: JACK STONE
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 1 (12-inch) pizza, serves 2–3 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • • 1 prepared pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)

    • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus 2 tbsp for tossing chicken)

    • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

    • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

    • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

    • Olive oil for brushing

  Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

  • Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer it to a pizza peel or baking sheet.

  • In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce. Set aside.

  • Brush the outer edge of the dough with olive oil. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup BBQ sauce evenly across the dough, leaving about 1/2-inch border.

  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the sauce. Distribute the BBQ chicken and sliced red onions evenly over the cheese.

  • Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.

  • Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro.

  • Let the pizza cool for 2–3 minutes before slicing and serving.

  Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a faster prep time.

  • Swap mozzarella for smoked gouda or add it for extra depth.

  • Try a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat.