Spicy Bbq Pizza Recipe

preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. Lightly dust a pizza peel or baking sheet with the all-purpose flour.

On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer the dough to the prepared peel or baking sheet. Brush the outer 1/2-inch rim lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil to promote browning.

In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and optional hot sauce. Taste and adjust heat. Spread the BBQ mixture evenly over the dough, leaving the oiled rim untouched. Use about 3 tablespoons for a thin layer; add more if you prefer a saucier pizza.

Toss the shredded cooked chicken with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly coated. This seasons the chicken and reinforces the BBQ flavor.

Distribute the seasoned chicken evenly over the sauce in a single layer so each slice gets protein.

Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the chicken. Arrange the jalapeño and optional banana/Fresno pepper slices across the pizza so heat is distributed. For milder heat, remove seeds from jalapeño before slicing; for maximum heat, leave seeds in.

Combine the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar in a bowl. Sprinkle the blended cheeses evenly over the toppings, covering the pizza. Finish by sprinkling the grated parmesan on top for an extra savory note.

Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake at 500°F (260°C) for 8–12 minutes, watching closely: crust should be golden and cheese bubbling with slight browning. If your oven is less powerful, bake 12–15 minutes at 475°F (245°C).

If you want extra char on the peppers and crust, finish with 1–2 minutes under the broiler on high—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Remove the pizza from the oven. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and cracked black pepper over the top. Let the pizza rest 2–3 minutes to set before slicing.

Slice into 6–8 pieces and serve hot. Offer extra BBQ sauce and chili flakes at the table for those who want more sauce or heat.