These Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls are a delicious and fun twist on traditional pizza. Soft, pillowy dough is filled with tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey melted cheese, then rolled up and baked to perfection. They’re the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken making each bite irresistible. Serve these pizza rolls as an appetizer, snack, or main course, and watch them disappear in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy and fun: Quick to prepare and fun to eat, these pizza rolls are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Full of flavor: The BBQ chicken filling adds a sweet and smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the melty cheese.
- Customizable: Use store-bought dough or make your own, and adjust the filling to suit your tastes.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a party, these rolls are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Rolls:
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, it serves as the base for the rolls.
- Cooked chicken: Shredded, to provide a tender and flavorful filling.
- Barbecue sauce: Sweet and tangy, this sauce gives the rolls their signature BBQ flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted cheese that makes the rolls gooey and delicious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced, for added crunch and flavor.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, to give the rolls a fresh, herby touch.
For the Topping:
- Olive oil: To brush on the rolls before baking for a golden and crispy crust.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory flavor to the crust.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Adjust the amount of sauce depending on how saucy you want the filling.
- Set the chicken mixture aside while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×9 inches in size.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro evenly over the chicken.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
- Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough into a log, making sure the filling stays inside.
- Once rolled, use a serrated knife to slice the roll into about 12 even pieces.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza Rolls
- Place the rolls, cut side down, on a greased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Servings: 4
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 700mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 25g
FAQ
Q1: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought BBQ sauce. Choose your favorite flavor or try a smoky or spicy variety for extra kick.
Q2: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A3: Yes! Feel free to swap out the mozzarella and cheddar for other types of cheese, such as provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack, depending on your preferences.
Q4: Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
A4: Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for added flavor and texture.
Q5: Can I use a gluten-free pizza dough?
A5: Yes, you can substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free version. Just make sure it’s a dough that can be rolled out and baked.
Q6: Can I freeze these pizza rolls?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen for about 20-25 minutes.
Q7: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza rolls?
A7: The best way to reheat these pizza rolls is by baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but the crust may not stay as crispy.
Q8: Can I make these pizza rolls with other proteins?
A8: Yes, you can use cooked shredded beef, pork, or even vegetarian options like beans or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
Q9: Can I add more barbecue sauce?
A9: Yes, feel free to add more barbecue sauce to the chicken mixture or drizzle it on top of the rolls before baking for extra flavor.
Q10: Can I use a different type of dough?
A10: You can substitute the pizza dough with biscuit dough or puff pastry for a different texture and flavor.
Enjoy these Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls as a delicious snack, appetizer, or meal that will surely be a hit with everyone!
PrintCheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls
Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls are a delicious, hand-held treat perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, these rolls are sure to be a hit!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup diced red onion (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Roll the dough into a 14×9 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread the BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and diced red onion over the sauce.
- Roll and Cut:
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.
- Let the Rolls Rise:
- Place the rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pizza rolls for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve the rolls warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Golden Finish: Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil before baking for a golden, crispy texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a little hot sauce to the BBQ sauce if you want a spicy kick.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 217kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 11g