These BBQ Chicken Pizza Bites are a fun, bite-sized snack perfect for any gathering. With a savory combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh cilantro, these pizza bites offer a delightful twist on traditional pizza. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 package of mini pizza crusts or English muffins (halved)
1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
Olive oil for brushing

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
Prepare the Crusts: Place the mini pizza crusts or halved English muffins on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush each crust with olive oil.
Assemble the Pizza Bites: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture onto each crust. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced red onion, fresh cilantro, and optional corn kernels for added flavor and texture.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pizza bites cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Spicy BBQ Chicken Bites: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Use a mixture of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian alternative.
Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add More Toppings: Experiment with other pizza toppings such as olives, mushrooms, or pineapple.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza bites. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp.

10 FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds great flavor to the pizza bites.
Can I make these pizza bites ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce? Absolutely! You can use sweet, tangy, or smoky BBQ sauce, depending on your preference.
What if I don’t have mini pizza crusts? English muffin halves work well, or you can use pita bread or tortillas cut into small circles as alternatives.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan.
How can I make these pizza bites spicier? Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce over the top before baking.
Can I add more toppings to the pizza bites? Yes, feel free to add other ingredients like olives, peppers, or even pineapple.
What should I serve with these pizza bites? Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or a fresh salad.
Can I make these without cilantro? Yes, if you don’t like cilantro, you can leave it out or substitute with parsley or green onions.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Make sure the chicken mixture isn’t too wet and brush the crust with olive oil before adding the toppings to help crisp it up.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza Bites are a perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether for a casual family dinner, a party, or game day, these pizza bites are sure to be a hit. With endless possibilities for customization, they can easily become a favorite in your recipe rotation.