Mastering the Grill: The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Pizza with Sweet & Smoky Kraut
Summer days call for easy, flavorful meals, and this simple BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe delivers on all fronts. Imagine a perfectly thin and crispy pizza crust, generously slathered with your favorite smoky barbecue sauce, piled high with tender grilled chicken, and two luxurious kinds of cheese. But here’s the game-changing twist that elevates this dish from great to unforgettable: a tangy topping of Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut, adding an unexpected depth of flavor and texture. This recipe is an epic solution for getting a delicious dinner on the table and into your tummy in record time, making it a perfect addition to your summer grilling repertoire.
With summer in full swing, grilling season is at its peak! There’s an undeniable magic about cooking outdoors, where the sizzle of the grill and the aroma of smoky flavors fill the air. While classic barbecue staples like a juicy burger or a perfectly seared hot dog are always welcome, I’m constantly inspired to innovate with new recipes for our Traeger and gas grill. This year, my culinary adventures led me to recreate a beloved grilled pizza experience from one of our favorite local eateries, right in our backyard.
What’s truly fantastic about this BBQ Chicken Pizza is its sheer accessibility. Forget about needing specialized equipment like a fancy pizza oven or even a dedicated pizza stone. This recipe is designed to be cooked directly on your grill grates, infusing every bite with that irresistible smoky essence that only outdoor cooking can provide. It’s an incredibly straightforward method that yields a gourmet-quality pizza, proving that exceptional taste doesn’t require elaborate tools or techniques.
Effortless Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza: Your Summer Go-To
I’ve deliberately integrated several clever shortcuts into this recipe, making it an absolute dream for anyone short on time, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. By opting for a convenient store-bought pizza crust, using a high-quality bottled BBQ sauce as your base, and leveraging pre-cooked chicken, the bulk of your prep work is virtually eliminated. The only significant task you’ll face is thinly slicing a bit of red onion and then assembling your ingredients before it hits the grill. No need for pre-cooking the crust – simply layer and grill for a quick and satisfying meal.
This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, a brand I’ve cherished for years. My deep-seated affection and honest opinions about their delightful sauerkraut are, as always, entirely my own.
Introducing Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut: A Flavor Revelation
Last summer, Frank’s Kraut unveiled an exciting new addition to their already impressive product line: their Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut. And let me tell you, dear friends, it is precisely what your summer grilling season has been yearning for! You might recall its debut from last year’s sensational BBQ Smoked Sausages with Kraut recipe. This innovative product takes their beloved, classic sauerkraut and jazzes it up with a masterful blend of brown sugar, rich molasses, and carefully selected spices. The result is an incredibly balanced and complex barbecue flavor that complements a wide array of grilled dishes. It’s an absolutely perfect, vibrant topping for this classic BBQ Chicken Pizza, offering a unique tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and the richness of the chicken and cheese.
For those who appreciate venturing beyond conventional pizza recipes and embracing exciting, unique pizza toppings, I highly recommend exploring some of my other creative concoctions. Be sure to check out my incredibly popular Reuben Pizza (beautifully pictured above), which offers a delightful deli-inspired twist, and my flavorful Spinach Artichoke Pizza, a creamy and savory option that’s always a crowd-pleaser. These recipes demonstrate the endless possibilities of pizza as a canvas for culinary innovation.
Crafting Your Barbecue Chicken Pizza from Scratch (Optional)
While this recipe emphasizes convenience, for those who relish the art of cooking from scratch, there are several rewarding avenues you can explore to elevate this dish further. Embracing the full homemade experience allows for unparalleled control over every element, resulting in a deeply personalized and intensely flavorful pizza. Consider using a Homemade Pizza Dough recipe for a truly authentic crust, crafting your own signature Homemade BBQ Sauce to perfectly match your taste preferences, and grilling fresh chicken breasts to juicy perfection. A crucial tip for superior taste and texture is to always shred your own cheese from a block; this ensures a much better melt and fresher flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. If you opt for homemade pizza dough over a premade crust, as I’ve done here, you’ll find some invaluable techniques and great tips for grilling pizza here to help you achieve a beautifully charred and bubbly crust.
Essential BBQ Chicken Pizza Ingredients: A Closer Look
For a detailed list of all ingredients and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the very bottom of this post where you’ll find the full printable recipe card. However, let’s explore the key components that bring this incredible pizza to life:
- Premade Pizza Crust: To maximize convenience and ensure a quick cooking time, I specifically used a shelf-stable pizza crust, such as a Boboli Crust or a similar brand. These crusts provide a reliable base that cooks beautifully on the grill, achieving a delightful crispness without extensive preparation.
- BBQ Sauce: The choice of barbecue sauce is paramount as it forms the flavorful foundation of your pizza. Feel free to use your absolute favorite bottled BBQ sauce, or for a truly customized taste, consider trying my exceptional homemade BBQ sauce recipe. The best sauce will strike a perfect balance between sweet, smoky, and tangy notes.
- Grilled Chicken Breast Meat: This is where the hearty protein comes in. You can grill fresh chicken breasts specifically for this recipe, ensuring they are tender and lightly charred. Alternatively, this recipe is fantastic for utilizing leftover grilled chicken, making it a brilliant weekday meal when you’ve prepped chicken earlier in the week. Simply cut it into strips or dice it.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a welcome sharpness and a subtle sweetness that brightens the overall flavor profile of the pizza. Its vibrant color also contributes to the visual appeal.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: For the ultimate melty, gooey texture, I highly recommend grating your own fresh mozzarella. It melts significantly better and offers a creamier consistency compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. However, pre-shredded mozzarella cheese can certainly be used if convenience is a priority.
- Smoked Gouda Cheese: This is the secret weapon for a rich, smoky depth. Smoked gouda cheese adds a sophisticated layer of flavor that beautifully complements the BBQ sauce and grilled chicken. Like mozzarella, grating it fresh from the block yields the best melting results, but pre-shredded is an acceptable alternative.
- Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut: The star topping! This unique kraut is added after the pizza comes off the grill, providing an incredible burst of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavor. It’s the ultimate twist that truly sets this BBQ chicken pizza apart, offering a delightful contrast to the warm, savory ingredients.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza with Kraut on the Grill
This recipe truly comes together in a flash, and I guarantee it will disappear from your serving board even faster! Follow these simple steps for a grilled pizza masterpiece:
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill. Begin by ensuring your grill grates are immaculately clean. Any residue from previous grilling sessions could transfer unwanted flavors or black marks onto your delicate pizza crust. Once clean, preheat your grill to a consistent temperature of 400 degrees F (approximately 200 degrees Celsius). This high heat is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy crust and melted toppings.
Step 2: Sauce the Crust. With your crust ready, take your chosen barbecue sauce and spread it generously and evenly over the entire surface, extending it almost to the very edges. This ensures every bite is infused with that classic BBQ flavor.
Step 3: Add Protein and Aromatics. Next, scatter the pre-cooked or freshly grilled chicken pieces over the barbecue sauce. Follow this with a scattering of the thinly sliced red onion. Distribute these toppings evenly for balanced flavor in every slice.
Step 4: Crown with Cheese. Finally, generously sprinkle both the shredded fresh mozzarella and smoked gouda cheese over the chicken and onion. Ensure good coverage so you get that perfect melty cheese pull with every bite.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection. Carefully place the fully assembled pizza directly onto your clean, preheated grill grates. This is where the magic happens! Watch it closely, as grilled pizzas cook remarkably fast. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown and crispy crust on the bottom, with all the toppings warmed through and the cheese perfectly melted and bubbly on top. Be particularly mindful to prevent any flare-ups from dripping sauce or cheese, which could burn the crust.
Step 6: Finish and Serve. Once cooked, carefully remove the pizza from the grill. This is the moment to add that signature tangy touch! Top the hot pizza with generous mounds of Frank’s BBQ Kraut. The warmth of the pizza will gently heat the kraut, enhancing its unique flavor. Slice into 8 perfect pieces and serve immediately to enjoy its irresistible combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes.
Any delicious leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This pizza also freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months, making it ideal for future quick meals. If freezing, I highly recommend adding the BBQ Kraut topping only after the pizza has been reheated, to maintain its fresh texture and vibrant flavor.
Year-Round Enjoyment: Oven Preparation for Your BBQ Chicken Pizza
Don’t let the end of grilling season stop you from enjoying this phenomenal BBQ Chicken Pizza! This delicious recipe can easily be made year-round right in your conventional oven, yielding equally fantastic results. Simply follow all the same preparation instructions for assembling your pizza. When it comes to baking, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees Celsius). Bake the pizza for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the crust achieves a beautiful golden-brown crispness and the cheese topping is perfectly melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. For optimal results, you can place the pizza directly on the oven rack, or if you prefer, use a pizza stone or a sturdy baking sheet for support and an extra crispy bottom. This versatility means a flavorful and quick dinner is always within reach, no matter the weather.
Loved this recipe? Pin it for Later!
The next time you find yourself craving a truly exceptional pizza that’s both easy to make and packed with incredible flavors, remember this recipe! It’s perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. Make sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away. This way, it will always be handy for when the BBQ pizza craving strikes!
Customize Your Creation: BBQ Chicken Pizza Substitutions & Tips
One of the joys of making homemade pizza is the freedom to customize it to your exact preferences. Here are some fantastic ideas and practical tips to make your BBQ Chicken Pizza truly your own:
- Fresh Herb Finish: Before serving, elevate the flavors with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Chopped cilantro is a classic pairing with BBQ chicken, offering a bright, citrusy note. Fresh parsley adds a touch of herbaceousness, while finely chopped chives introduce a mild oniony zest.
- Heat Things Up: If you appreciate a little kick, a dash of red pepper flakes sprinkled over the pizza before grilling will add a delightful warmth. For even more spice, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño.
- Cheese Explorations: Don’t limit yourself to just mozzarella and gouda. Experiment with different cheese varieties to create new flavor profiles. Monterrey Jack offers a wonderfully creamy melt, while a sharp cheddar can add a robust, tangy character that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses could also work well.
- Chicken Variations: This recipe is incredibly adaptable to different types of chicken. Any leftover cooked chicken, whether roasted or grilled, will work perfectly. For ultimate convenience, shredding a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. If you prefer the richer flavor of dark meat, chicken thighs can be cooked and shredded. You can even use frozen grilled chicken strips – just ensure they are warmed through before adding them to the pizza to ensure they heat evenly on the grill.
- Grill Grate Cleanliness: This tip cannot be stressed enough. Always, always make sure your grill grates are thoroughly clean before placing the pizza directly on them. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean, crisp crust without unwanted charring or off-flavors from previous cooks.
- Temperature Control: Keep a close eye on your grill temperature. Too hot, and the crust might burn before the toppings are cooked; too low, and you won’t get that desired crispness. A consistent medium-high heat is key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Grilling Pizza
Grilling pizza might seem daunting at first, but it’s a remarkably rewarding process. Here are some common questions and detailed answers to help you master the technique:
- What type of grill is best for grilling pizza? For optimal results, a gas grill or a dedicated wood-fired pizza oven will provide the consistent high heat necessary to cook pizza quickly and evenly. The high temperatures are crucial for achieving that desirable crispy crust and bubbly, melted cheese. However, charcoal grills are also an excellent option, offering a deeper smoky flavor, though they may require more attention to temperature management.
- Do I need a pizza stone or steel to grill pizza? While it is not strictly necessary to use a pizza stone or steel (as this recipe demonstrates by cooking directly on grates), many grillers prefer them. A pizza stone or steel helps to absorb and evenly distribute heat, which can prevent the crust from burning while still achieving a perfect crispness. They are particularly useful if you are concerned about direct contact with the flames or want to mimic the effects of a professional pizza oven more closely. If you choose to use one, ensure that your pizza stone is explicitly labeled as “grill-safe,” as not all oven-safe stones can withstand direct high heat from a grill.
- What temperature should I grill pizza at? For the best balance of a cooked crust and melted toppings without burning, a temperature range of 375 – 450°F (190-230°C) is generally recommended. This high heat ensures quick cooking and a crispy exterior.
- How long does it take to grill a pizza? Grilled pizzas cook remarkably fast! Depending on your grill’s temperature and the thickness of your crust and toppings, a pizza typically cooks in just 4-7 minutes total. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and watch it closely, as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- How do I prevent the pizza from sticking to the grill? Ensure your grill grates are impeccably clean and well-oiled before preheating. You can also lightly dust your pizza peel or the bottom of your crust with cornmeal or semolina flour, which acts like tiny ball bearings, helping the pizza slide easily onto and off the grill.
Our Family’s Favorite Pizza Recipes
Pizza night is a cherished tradition in our household – it’s one of those rare meals everyone can enthusiastically agree upon! My website is a treasure trove of diverse pizza recipes, ensuring there’s something for every palate and occasion. If you’re a connoisseur of truly outstanding pepperoni pizza, you absolutely must give my unique Detroit-style pizza a try – its thick, airy crust and caramelized cheese edges are pure perfection. For fans of grilled chicken on pizza, I’m confident you’ll adore my fiery Buffalo Chicken Pizza, offering a spicy kick. Beyond traditional pies, I have everything from a comforting Classic Supreme Pizza, to fun appetizers like Pizza Dip, a vibrant Mexican Pizza, and even a delightful sweet treat like Dessert Pizza. There’s truly a pizza for every mood and moment!
Beyond Taste: Is Kraut Healthy? Exploring the Benefits of Sauerkraut
Beyond its fantastic flavor and versatility, sauerkraut offers a compelling array of health benefits that make it a truly valuable addition to your diet. This fermented cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin K, crucial for immune support and bone health, respectively. It’s naturally low in sugar and high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. For centuries, kraut has been revered as a folk remedy for various ailments, and it’s wonderfully reassuring when modern science validates these traditional uses. The fermentation process makes sauerkraut rich in beneficial probiotics, which are live microorganisms that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, supporting everything from digestion to mental well-being. So, when you add Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut to your pizza, you’re not just adding incredible flavor, but also a dose of goodness!
More Delicious Sauerkraut Recipes to Explore
I’ve had the distinct pleasure of collaborating with Frank’s Kraut for nearly a decade now, and together we’ve created an extensive collection of truly wonderful and innovative recipes. Their commitment to quality sauerkraut makes it a joy to cook with. I’m thrilled to share a few of my favorite grilling recipes that brilliantly feature their amazing sauerkraut, proving its versatility beyond just a side dish. My Pastrami Burger (pictured above) is, in a single word: astounding. The tangy kraut perfectly cuts through the richness of the pastrami and burger, creating a harmonious bite. Equally impressive is my newer recipe for Rachel Burgers, a lighter yet equally flavorful take on a classic sandwich, reimagined as a grilled burger.
If hot dogs or sausages are more to your liking for a quick and satisfying meal, be sure to give my vibrant BBQ Hot Dogs and Kraut a try. The combination of smoky hot dogs and tangy sauerkraut is simply unbeatable. And for a robust, hearty option, my Grilled Polish & Sauerkraut recipes are guaranteed to satisfy. These dishes showcase how sauerkraut can enhance and complement a variety of grilled meats, adding both flavor and a healthy crunch.
Are you a true sauerkraut enthusiast, or simply curious to learn more about this incredible fermented food? I’ve compiled everything you could possibly want to know about kraut! Discover its fascinating origins, how it’s traditionally made, and delve into a vast collection of tons of Sauerkraut recipes right here on my website. For a comprehensive overview, don’t miss my definitive Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut.
Why Frank’s Kraut Stands Apart: A Legacy of Flavor
My profound love for Frank’s Kraut isn’t just a recent affair; it spans not merely years, but decades. Growing up with a rich heritage of Polish and German descent, sauerkraut has always been a staple in my family’s kitchen. And for as long as I can remember, Frank’s Kraut has been the only brand our family has ever chosen to grace our tables. That, in itself, speaks volumes about its unparalleled quality and authentic flavor, doesn’t it?
You’ll find an abundance of fantastic sauerkraut recipes right here on my blog, offering creative ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your meals. Additionally, the official Frank’s Kraut Website is an incredible resource for even more culinary inspiration. I’ve even dedicated a special Pinterest Board just to sauerkraut, filled with ideas for every season and occasion! By following Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels—Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest—you’ll always be updated with new and exciting recipes and culinary tips throughout the year. The next time you fire up your grill, remember to truly Grill Out with Frank’s Kraut for an unforgettable flavor experience!
I genuinely hope that you and your family will thoroughly enjoy preparing and savoring this incredible recipe for The Best BBQ Chicken Pizza with its unique kraut twist. I’m eagerly looking forward to hearing your thoughts and feedback!
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Print Recipe
Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza with Kraut
10 minutes
5 minutes
Grilling
American
BBQ, BBQ chicken, chicken, Frank’s kraut, grilled, leftover chicken, pizza,
4
servings
698
kcal
Equipment
-
KitchenAid Classic Pizza Wheel
-
14” Pizza Cutter by KitchenStar | Rocker Style
-
OUII Aluminum Pizza Peel Metal – 12 x 14 Inch
-
Cuisinart CPS-445, 3-Piece Pizza Grilling Set, Pizza Stone
-
Pizza Cutter
Prevent your screen from going dark
Ingredients
-
1
one pound premade pizza crust
(shelf stable crust – like Boboli or similar for easy preparation) -
1/2
cup
BBQ Sauce
(your favorite brand, or try homemade) -
8
ounces
about 1 1/2 cups grilled chicken breast, cut into strips
(freshly grilled or leftover cooked chicken) -
1/3
cup
red onion
(thinly sliced for a delicate bite) -
1
cup
fresh mozzarella cheese
(preferably shredded from a block for best melt) -
1
cup
smoked gouda cheese
(shredded, adds a wonderful smoky depth) -
1/3
cup
Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut
(the essential tangy topping!)
Instructions
-
Start with a spotlessly clean grill to prevent sticking and unwanted flavors. Preheat your grill to a steady 400 degrees F (200°C).
-
Generously spread your favorite barbecue sauce over the top of the pizza crust, extending it almost to the edges to create a flavorful base.
-
Evenly distribute the grilled chicken pieces over the sauce, followed by the thinly sliced red onion.
-
Carefully sprinkle both the shredded fresh mozzarella and smoked gouda cheese over the chicken and onion, ensuring good coverage.
-
Place the pizza directly onto your clean, preheated grill grates. Keep a very close eye on it as grilled pizzas cook quickly! The goal is a golden-brown, crispy bottom crust and melted, bubbly toppings. Exercise caution to avoid grill flare-ups that could burn the crust.
-
Once cooked to perfection, remove the pizza from the grill. Top it with generous mounds of Frank’s BBQ Kraut before slicing into 8 pieces and serving immediately.
Notes
Oven Preparation: Enjoy this delicious pizza year-round by baking it in your oven. Follow the same assembly instructions. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. You can bake it directly on the oven rack, or use a pizza stone or baking sheet for support.