Introduction
Combining perfectly grilled BBQ chicken with a smoky pizza is a match made in grilling heaven. Using the Arteflame grill ensures each component shines. The chicken sizzles to juicy perfection on the flat cooktop while the pizza bakes to golden-brown glory in the Arteflame Pizza Oven. This method locks in the chicken's smoky flavor while delivering a perfectly crispy pizza crust. Once combined, you get a delicious BBQ chicken pizza that's better than any takeout.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite flavor)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough ball (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked BBQ chicken (from above)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
- Stack firewood on top and light the napkins. In 20 minutes, the grill will be ready for cooking. Insert the pizza grate and ensure the pizza oven is preheated during this time.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Melt butter on the flat cooktop near the center to create a rich, flavorful grilling surface.
- Place the chicken on the hotter area of the flat top. Sear for 3 minutes per side to lock in juices.
- Move the chicken to a slightly cooler area of the flat cooktop to cook through, brushing with BBQ sauce in the last 2-3 minutes. Remove when the internal temperature is 160°F (the chicken will rise to 165°F off the grill).
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the sauce.
- Add thin slices of red onion and chunks of BBQ chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
- Transfer the pizza to the Arteflame Pizza Oven.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating occasionally for even cooking, until the crust is crisp and golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Move the pizza oven back and forth for optimal heat over top of the pizza
Note: Avoid having firewood directly under the pizza so the crust bakes at the same speed as the toppings.. The crust will bake fast enough on the steel cooktop without any additional heat coming from below.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Garnish the pizza with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of flavor. Slice and enjoy your BBQ chicken pizza masterpiece.
Tips for Success
- Keep the chicken juicy by brushing it with additional butter before adding BBQ sauce.
- Use the hotter zones near the center of the Arteflame grill for quick searing, and move to the cooler edges for gentler cooking.
- Rotate the pizza as needed in the pizza oven for an evenly baked crust.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to seal in the juices before slicing.
Conclusion
This BBQ chicken and pizza recipe is a prime example of the Arteflame grill’s versatility. By grilling the chicken on the flat cooktop and baking the pizza in the pizza oven, you achieve a balance of bold smoky flavors and crisp textures. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or cold beer, and you’ve got an unbeatable backyard feast.
Recipe Variations
1. Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and add blue cheese crumbles for a spicy twist.
2. BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza
Use pulled pork instead of chicken, and add pickled jalapeños for tangy heat.
3. Vegetarian BBQ Pizza
Replace chicken with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and use a smoky BBQ sauce.
4. Hawaiian BBQ Pizza
Add pineapple chunks and ham to the BBQ chicken for a tropical flair.
5. BBQ Bacon Ranch Pizza
Drizzle ranch dressing over the pizza before serving and top with crispy bacon pieces.
Best Pairings
- Fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Iced tea or a craft beer