These BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are a fun and tasty twist on traditional pizza. Packed with flavorful chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheese, these scrolls are sure to please both kids and adults. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main meal!
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sheet refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
- Olive oil for brushing
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle shape.
- Spread the barbecue chicken mixture evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the chicken.
- Add chopped red onion if using.
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
- Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the scrolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops of the scrolls with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scrolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 250 per scroll
- Protein: 14g per scroll
- Carbs: 25g per scroll
- Fat: 12g per scroll
- Fiber: 1g per scroll
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls Are So Popular
BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are becoming a family favorite for several reasons. They offer the familiar taste of pizza in a fun, portable form that kids love. The sweetness of the barbecue sauce combined with the smoky flavor of the chicken creates a balanced and delicious bite. Plus, they’re perfect for portion control, making them easy to serve to guests or pack in lunchboxes. This recipe also gives families the opportunity to get creative with toppings, adding ingredients like red onions, bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.
The Versatility of BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls
One of the greatest things about BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls is their versatility. You can modify the recipe to suit dietary preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap the pizza dough for a gluten-free variety. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as a blend of mozzarella and gouda, or even add some spicy cheese for extra flavor. Additionally, the chicken can be swapped for other proteins like shredded pork or beef, and the barbecue sauce can be replaced with a variety of sauces to cater to different tastes.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These scrolls are an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for easy meals throughout the week. After baking, allow the scrolls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven and still maintain their flavor and texture. This makes BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls a great solution for busy days when you need something quick and delicious.
Kid-Friendly and Fun to Make
This recipe is not only kid-approved but also a great activity for kids to help with in the kitchen. The process of rolling the dough and filling it with toppings is simple and fun for young chefs. It also gives them a sense of accomplishment when they see the final product, and it’s a wonderful way to introduce them to cooking. Children will love assembling their own scrolls and choosing their favorite toppings, making this an interactive and engaging experience.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls Even Healthier
While BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are already delicious, there are ways to make them a bit healthier without compromising on flavor. Using whole-wheat pizza dough instead of white dough can add more fiber and nutrients. Additionally, you can opt for a lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella, to reduce the overall fat content. For a veggie boost, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture, which will increase the nutritional value while still maintaining the great taste.
How to Customize BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls
Customization is one of the best aspects of this recipe. You can tailor these scrolls to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture will give your scrolls a spicy kick. For those who love a more traditional pizza taste, you can top your scrolls with pepperoni, olives, or other classic pizza toppings. The possibilities are endless, and you can adjust the flavors to create a unique dish every time.
Why Use Barbecue Sauce for the Chicken?
Barbecue sauce is a key ingredient in this recipe because it adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. The tangy sweetness of the barbecue sauce blends perfectly with the mild flavor of the chicken and the cheese, creating a harmonious taste. It’s also an easy way to elevate the dish without having to prepare a complicated marinade or sauce from scratch. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can experiment with various barbecue sauce varieties, such as sweet, smoky, or spicy.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls with Leftover Chicken
If you have leftover cooked chicken, this recipe is an excellent way to repurpose it into something new and exciting. Shredded rotisserie chicken works particularly well because it is already seasoned and tender, making the cooking process even faster. Simply toss the leftover chicken with some barbecue sauce, and you’re ready to assemble your scrolls. This is a great way to reduce food waste and create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick.
Pairing BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls with Dips
While BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are delicious on their own, they also pair well with a variety of dips. Ranch dressing, blue cheese, or even a creamy garlic dip are great options for adding an extra layer of flavor. You can also serve them with a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad for a more balanced meal. Dipping sauces add an element of fun and flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Reheat BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls
Storing leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls is easy. Once the scrolls have cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you want to freeze them for longer storage, wrap each scroll in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply microwave the scrolls for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Reheated scrolls maintain their taste and texture, making them a great option for meal prep.
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls Are Great for Parties
BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls make a fantastic party food because they are bite-sized and easy to serve. They can be arranged on a platter and enjoyed by guests of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, game day gathering, or holiday celebration, these scrolls will surely be a hit. Their versatility also allows you to adapt them to your party theme, offering options like mini-sized scrolls for finger foods or larger ones to serve as a main dish.
The Secret to Perfectly Flaky BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls
The key to achieving perfectly flaky BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls lies in how you roll the dough. Be sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent the scrolls from unraveling during baking. Additionally, brushing the tops with olive oil before baking will help them develop a golden, crispy exterior. If you’re using a store-bought pizza dough, make sure it’s not overworked, as this can make the dough tough. With these tips, you’ll achieve a delightful balance of soft, cheesy interior and crisp exterior.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls for Meal Prep and Freezing
Making BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls ahead of time is a great way to save time and ensure you always have a quick and delicious meal on hand. Once assembled, you can freeze the scrolls before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. After they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake the frozen scrolls as directed. This makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to enjoy homemade pizza scrolls whenever you like.
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls Are Great for School Lunches
BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are a fantastic option for school lunches because they are portable and easy to eat. Their small size makes them a perfect addition to a lunchbox, and they can be served cold or reheated. Because they’re packed with protein, cheese, and flavorful barbecue sauce, they make for a filling and satisfying lunch that kids will actually look forward to eating. You can also pack them alongside fresh fruits, veggies, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
The Importance of Using Quality Ingredients
To get the best results, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken breast, high-quality barbecue sauce, and good mozzarella cheese can make a big difference in the flavor of your BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls. If possible, opt for organic or hormone-free chicken for a healthier option. The dough is also a key component of the recipe, so selecting a good pizza dough will help ensure the scrolls have the right texture and taste.
Why BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls Are Great for Kids’ Parties
Kids love these BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls because they are fun, flavorful, and easy to handle. At a kids’ party, these scrolls make an excellent addition to the food table. Their small size means children can pick them up and eat them without the need for utensils, and the familiar pizza flavors make them an instant hit. You can also make a variety of scrolls with different fillings to cater to various tastes, ensuring all the kids at the party are satisfied.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering, these scrolls are sure to be a hit. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and mouthwatering flavor make them a standout in any meal rotation. With the option to customize the ingredients and adjust the recipe to suit your needs, BBQ Chicken Pizza Scrolls are a meal that will never get old. Try them out today, and you’ll soon see why they’re quickly becoming a favorite in households everywhere.