Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza from Papa John's features tender grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, sweet pineapple chunks, and melted mozzarella cheese on a golden, crispy crust, delivering a flavorful blend of savory and tangy tastes with a satisfying texture.
Equipments
- Oven
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or ladle
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Rolling pin
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked grilled chicken breast
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Ensure the pizza dough is fresh or properly thawed for optimal texture when baked. Use a quality smoky barbecue sauce to enhance the authentic flavor profile of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza. Grilled chicken breast should be cooked and sliced evenly for consistent taste and texture in each bite. Drain pineapple chunks thoroughly to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. For an extra layer of flavor, try including thinly sliced red onions and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving. You can recreate the delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza from Papa John's copycat menu easily with these key ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
- Transfer dough to a lightly floured pizza peel or parchment paper.
- Brush dough lightly with olive oil.
- Spread barbecue sauce evenly over dough with spoon or ladle, leaving a border for the crust.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
- Arrange grilled chicken pieces and pineapple chunks evenly over the cheese.
- Scatter red onion slices over the toppings.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Carefully transfer pizza to hot stone or baking sheet in oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove pizza from oven using tongs or peel.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if using.
- Let rest 2 minutes, then cut with pizza cutter or sharp knife. Serve.
Substitution
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza from Papa John's copycat menu combines smoky barbecue sauce, tender grilled chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and melted mozzarella on a crispy golden crust. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple chunks can be used after thoroughly draining excess juice to prevent a soggy crust. Substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast seasoned with smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. Use any type of shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack if mozzarella isn't on hand, though the texture and melt may vary. You can also skip the fresh cilantro or replace it with chopped green onions for a different but complementary garnish.
Tips
Ensure the pizza stone or baking sheet is thoroughly preheated in the oven to 475degF for a crisp crust and even cooking. Lightly flour surfaces and pizza peel to prevent dough from sticking during transfer. Avoid overloading the pizza with toppings to ensure proper heat distribution and melting of mozzarella cheese. Let the pizza rest for 2 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set, which makes slicing easier and preserves your toppings.
Nutritions
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza provides a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, with 1 cup of grilled chicken breast contributing approximately 43 grams of protein to support muscle maintenance. The 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese add roughly 33 grams of protein and 30 grams of fat, along with calcium for bone health. Pineapple chunks supply essential vitamins like vitamin C and dietary fiber, aiding digestion, while the olive oil brushed on the crust delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. You can enjoy this pizza as a flavorful meal that offers both energy and key nutrients important for your overall nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Keep the pizza refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the crust becomes crispy, ensuring your pizza stays flavorful and satisfying.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap grilled chicken breast with pulled pork or smoked ham to amplify the barbecue flavor profile. Use smoked gouda or provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for a richer, more complex taste. Substitute the red onion with thinly sliced jalapenos or green bell peppers to add a spicy or fresh crunch. You can also prepare the dough in a cast-iron skillet to achieve a thicker, chewier crust with a crisp exterior.
Allergies
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza from Papa John's contains common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella cheese and gluten from pizza dough. The grilled chicken may also cause issues for those with poultry allergies. Be cautious if you have sensitivities to components like barbecue sauce ingredients or pineapple, as they may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
Why this recipe?
The Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza from Papa John's combines tender grilled chicken with sweet pineapple chunks and tangy BBQ sauce, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The fresh mozzarella and smoked bacon toppings add rich, smoky depth, enhancing every bite with a satisfying texture. You'll appreciate the unique flavor profile and the opportunity to recreate this popular menu item at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to suit your taste. Making a copycat version allows you to experiment and enjoy a restaurant-quality pizza experience anytime.