If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of summer with a satisfying, cheesy twist, you have to try this BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe. It combines the smoky sweetness of charred corn, tender barbecue chicken, and a melty mix of white cheddar and Gruyere cheese all on a crispy, golden crust. Every bite bursts with texture and taste, making it an ideal pizza for warm-weather gatherings or any time you want to bring a touch of sunshine to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, textures, and colors. From the fresh sweetness of summer corn to the creamy bite of Gruyere, this recipe is all about harmony and freshness.
- Salted butter: Adds richness and helps char the corn perfectly for that smoky flavor.
- Fresh corn kernels: The star ingredient, offering juicy pop and natural sweetness.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the corn without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- Garlic clove (finely minced): Provides a fragrant kick that complements the barbecue sauce.
- Pizza dough: The foundation of the dish, creating a crisp yet chewy crust.
- Cornmeal: Prevents sticking and adds a slight crunch to the crust’s base.
- Barbecue sauce: Brings the smoky-sweet backbone that ties the chicken and pizza together.
- Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed): Adds protein and soaks up the barbecue flavor beautifully.
- Shredded white cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, it melts into gooey perfection.
- Shredded Gruyere cheese: Offers a nutty richness that elevates every bite.
- Thinly sliced red onion: Provides a fresh bite and a slight crunch for contrast.
- Ranch dressing: Used as a finishing drizzle, giving a cool, tangy balance to the warm pizza.
- Pickled red onions: Optional but adds a zingy brightness that livens up the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds herbaceous freshness to finish the pizza beautifully.
- Green onions (green parts only, thinly sliced): Perfect for a mild onion note and lovely color garnish.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 475°F. Achieving a high temperature is key for getting that crispy, golden crust with a slight char that makes this BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe so irresistible.
Step 2: Char the Corn
Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, then toss in the fresh corn kernels. Cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring every few minutes until they develop a lovely light char. This step brings out the natural sugars in the corn, adding depth and a smoky element. Stir in paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic for an extra flavor punch before taking the pan off the heat to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, mingle your cooked chicken pieces with a quarter cup of barbecue sauce. This allows the chicken to soak in the tangy, smoky goodness, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist in your BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour a surface and roll your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Start with a rolling pin and finish by hand to get an even thickness. Making the edges a little thicker than the center is a smart trick for a perfect crust that holds all your toppings without getting soggy.
Step 5: Prepare the Crust
Sprinkle your baking sheet or pizza stone with cornmeal, then transfer the dough onto it. Use a fork to poke holes in the center to prevent bubbles from forming during baking. Let the crust rest for a few minutes to maintain its airy texture once cooked.
Step 6: Assemble Your Pizza
Slather 3 to 4 tablespoons of barbecue sauce over the dough’s center, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges clear. Layer the pizza starting with most of the white cheddar, a splash of Gruyere, then the barbecue chicken. Sprinkle the charred corn and red onions on top, then finish with the remaining cheddar and Gruyere. This layering technique ensures every slice has a perfect balance of melty cheese, smoky chicken, and sweet corn.
Step 7: Bake
Pop your pizza in the hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns golden brown, cheese bubbles with slightly charred spots, and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure comfort. Let it cool slightly before slicing — that way, the cheese sets just enough for clean, hearty slices.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Serve your masterpiece with extra barbecue sauce for dipping, a generous drizzle of ranch dressing, and optional toppings like pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions. These final garnishes add layers of flavor, color, and freshness that really make this BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe stand out.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe
Garnishes
Adding pickled red onions gives a tangy pop that cuts through the richness of the cheese and barbecue sauce. Fresh cilantro and green onions linger with fresh herbaceous notes that make every bite bright and lively. A drizzle of cool ranch dressing on top offers a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the smoky base.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a light cucumber and tomato salad for freshness. Try a side of grilled vegetables or even some classic coleslaw to add crunch and balance. The hearty nature of the pizza is well matched by simple, fresh sides that won’t overpower its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice this BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter with colorful garnishes around the edges. You can also serve it family-style with extra dipping sauces to encourage everyone to customize their slice. Finally, try pairing it with a chilled summer drink like lemonade or an iced tea for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispness, layering parchment paper between slices helps prevent sticking and sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe later, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making for a convenient and delicious treat any time.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a hot skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes to crisp up the crust while warming the toppings. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the crust from getting chewy and soft.
FAQs
Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, you absolutely can! If using canned or frozen corn, drain and dry it well before cooking and charring it in the skillet. This helps mimic the texture and flavor of fresh corn, keeping the summer vibe intact.
What kind of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?
A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce pairs best, as it complements the smoky and cheesy flavors without overpowering. Feel free to use your favorite brand or a homemade sauce with a balance of tomato, vinegar, and spices.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Definitely! Use a gluten-free pizza dough mix and ensure your cornmeal and other ingredients are gluten-free. This way you won’t miss out on any of the deliciousness of the BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for grilled mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even a hearty plant-based protein to keep the smoky, savory element alive while making it vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make the crust extra crispy?
Using a pizza stone or steel preheated in the oven helps achieve a crispy bottom crust. Additionally, sprinkling cornmeal on the baking surface prevents sticking and adds a subtle crunch that enhances the crust’s texture.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration with every bite. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to serve at gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand how the mix of smoky, sweet, tangy, and fresh flavors creates a pizza experience that’s truly unforgettable. So grab your ingredients and give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Chicken Pizza with Summer Corn combines a crispy hand-stretched crust with a smoky barbecue sauce, tender cooked chicken, and sweet charred corn. Topped with a blend of shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, fresh red onions, and finished with a drizzle of ranch dressing and vibrant pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and green onions, this flavorful pizza is perfect for a satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients
For the Corn Topping
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (see note if using canned or frozen)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove (finely minced)
For the Pizza
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 2 teaspoons cornmeal
- â…” cup barbecue sauce (divided)
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
For Serving
- Ranch dressing
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
- Green onions (green parts only, thinly sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F to ensure it is hot enough for a crispy, golden crust.
- Cook the corn: Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh corn kernels and cook, stirring every 2-3 minutes for 6-8 minutes until the corn is lightly charred. Stir in paprika, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cooked chicken with ¼ cup of the barbecue sauce until evenly coated. Set this aside.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly dust a large surface with flour. Roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle using a rolling pin. Then press and gently stretch the dough with your hands to form an even crust, keeping the edges thicker than the center for better texture.
- Prepare the crust base: Sprinkle a baking sheet or pizza stone with cornmeal. Transfer the rolled dough onto it. Use a fork to poke holes in the center of the dough to prevent bubbling during baking. Let the crust rest a few minutes while assembling the toppings.
- Add sauces and toppings: Spread 3 to 4 tablespoons of barbecue sauce evenly over the center of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Layer ¾ cup of shredded white cheddar cheese, ¼ cup Gruyere cheese, the barbecue-coated chicken, charred corn, and sliced red onions. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup cheddar and ¼ cup Gruyere evenly on top.
- Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown, bubbly, and slightly charred. Remove from oven and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Serve slices with the remaining barbecue sauce and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Optionally top with pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions for added flavor and color.
Notes
- If using canned or frozen corn, drain and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
- Allowing the crust to rest after rolling out helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
- Using a pizza stone will help achieve a crispier crust, but a baking sheet works well too.
- Adjust barbecue sauce quantity to taste depending on desired sauciness.
- Feel free to substitute chicken with cooked pulled pork or beef for variation.
