Utah BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza on the Arteflame

Introduction

This sweet and smoky BBQ chicken pizza is packed with bold Utah-style BBQ flavor. Grilled entirely on the Arteflame, the flatbread develops a crispy, golden crust while the chicken gets reverse-seared to juicy perfection. Topped with red onions and sharp cheddar, this pizza is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. With the power and versatility of the Arteflame grill, you can cook every component of this recipe easily and beautifully for a showstopping meal your guests will love.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Utah-style BBQ sauce (sweet and smoky)
• 2 flatbreads or naan
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill basin.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build, allowing about 20 minutes for the Arteflame grill to reach grilling temperature. You’ll know it’s ready when the cooktop is sizzling hot and the center grate reaches over 1,000°F.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Sear both chicken breasts on the center grill grate at 1,000°F for 1-2 minutes per side to lock in the juices.
3. After searing, move the chicken to the flat cooktop to finish cooking using the reverse searing method.
4. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches 150°F (it will continue cooking off the grill to reach the safe 165°F).

Step 3: Slice and Sauce

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
2. Toss the chicken in the Utah-style BBQ sauce to coat thoroughly.

Step 4: Grill the Flatbreads

1. Place the flatbreads directly on the flat cooktop griddle near the center for optimal crisping.
2. Lightly butter the underside for extra flavor and a golden crust.
3. Warm them for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and just crisped.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

1. On each flatbread, layer the BBQ chicken, followed by red onions and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Place the assembled pizzas back on the flat cooktop griddle near the center to melt the cheese, about 2-4 minutes with a melty, bubbly finish.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
2. Slice and serve hot.

Tips

• Butter instead of oil adds incredible flavor to the flatbread and prevents sticking.
• Use tongs to rotate flatbreads for even cook and crisp.
• Letting meat rest is crucial—never skip the 5 minutes before slicing.
• Use different heat zones on the Arteflame for precise cooking control.
• Flat cooktop zones give smoky flavor without burning ingredients.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño BBQ Pizza: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese to bring some heat.
2. Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza: Add grilled pineapple chunks and mozzarella for a sweet tropical twist.
3. Smoked Bacon BBQ Pizza: Sprinkle on crumbled smoked bacon for extra depth and crunch.
4. Veggie Lover's BBQ Pizza: Add grilled bell peppers, corn, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
5. Blue Cheese BBQ Pizza: Replace cheddar with blue cheese and add arugula for a tangy, rich contrast.

Conclusion

The Arteflame makes it simple to create a real showstopper: crispy, cheesy, smoky BBQ chicken pizza with bold Utah flavor. Cooking everything on the grill—from the seared chicken to the grilled flatbread—brings a wood-fired taste and beautiful texture you just can’t get anywhere else. Try this recipe next time you're grilling, and you’ll never want BBQ chicken pizza another way.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with chili-lime butter
• Smoky baked beans (made on the flat top with bacon)
• A crisp, citrusy pale ale or a dry rosé wine
• Coleslaw or a grilled romaine salad with vinaigrette