Introduction: California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Pizza is a legendary dish known for its unique combination of flavors. This pizza brings together the smoky goodness of barbecue sauce, the savory taste of chicken, and a medley of fresh ingredients, creating a culinary masterpiece. Recreating this iconic dish at home allows you to enjoy the distinctive CPK experience right in your kitchen. Below is a step-by-step guide to crafting your own CPK-inspired BBQ Chicken Pizza.
Copycat California Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough instructions or to 450°F (232°C).
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Spread a thin layer of olive oil on the rolled-out dough.
- Evenly distribute the barbecue-coated chicken, sliced red onions, and mozzarella cheese on the dough.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Transfer the assembled pizza to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish with Freshness:
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the hot pizza just before serving.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve and savor the delightful flavors reminiscent of CPK’s BBQ Chicken Pizza.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use a pre-made pizza crust?
- Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience. Follow the package instructions for best results.
Q2: What barbecue sauce works best?
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce for a personal touch. Hickory or mesquite-flavored sauces complement the smoky profile of the pizza.
Q3: Can I add extra toppings?
- Absolutely! Customize your pizza with additional toppings like bell peppers, bacon, or jalapeños to suit your taste.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q5: Can I make the pizza dough from scratch?
- Certainly! You can use your preferred pizza dough recipe or find one online for a homemade touch.
Enjoy the process of creating your own CPK-inspired BBQ Chicken Pizza, and relish the delightful blend of flavors that make this dish a timeless favorite.