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Mini BBQ Chicken Pizzas - Easy, Saucy, and Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 8 mini naan breads, mini pitas, or halved English muffins (or small flour tortillas)
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for drizzling (use your favorite brand)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley if you prefer)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prep the chicken: In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with about half of the BBQ sauce to coat. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
  3. Prepare the bases: Arrange your mini naan, pitas, or English muffin halves on the baking sheet. If you like a crisper bottom, lightly brush with olive oil. For tortillas, use two layers per mini pizza for extra sturdiness.
  4. Sauce the crusts: Spoon a thin layer of BBQ sauce on each base. Don’t go too heavy; a light coat prevents sogginess.
  5. Add the chicken: Divide the sauced chicken evenly over the pizzas. Aim for an even layer so every bite has a little of everything.
  6. Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar over the top. Mixing cheeses adds a nice balance of melt and sharpness.
  7. Toppings: Add red onion and jalapeño slices if using. A light sprinkle of black pepper or red pepper flakes boosts flavor.
  8. Bake: Oven: Bake 8–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly crisp. Air fryer: Cook in batches for 5–7 minutes, checking at 5 minutes.
  9. Finish: Let cool for 2–3 minutes. Drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce if you like, then scatter chopped cilantro on top.
  10. Serve: Enjoy hot. They’re great on their own or with a simple green salad or crunchy slaw.