You know those days when you just need something quick, scrumptious, and satisfying for dinner, and ordering takeout seems tempting? Well, let me let you in on a little family secret: BBQ Chicken Flatbread. This delightful dish has been a weekday hero in our household, especially when life’s getting a bit too hectic. It’s like a mini pizza party right on a flatbread, and it makes food fun without the fuss.
I remember the first time I threw together this flatbread after a long day at work. The kids were hungry, and the kitchen looked more like a culinary battleground. But all it took was a glance at some leftover rotisserie chicken, a couple of naan, and a trusty bottle of BBQ sauce, and magic was created. It’s one of those meals where the smells alone seem to gather everyone around the table, clad in eager grins and hungry tummies.
When I say this BBQ Chicken Flatbread has become a staple, I mean it. We love experimenting with different BBQ sauces – some nights it’s tangy, while others it could have a spicy kick. What’s even better is how malleable this recipe is. Say you’re out of cheddar cheese; no worries, a sprinkle of parmesan or gouda can step right up. The red onions add a lovely crunch, but a handful of caramelized onions can elevate the dish to gourmet status without much effort.
Sharing this recipe with you feels like inviting you into a little chapter of my kitchen life. It’s not just about the food itself but the moments that unfold around it. Whether it’s a midweek dinner for a bustling family or a cozy treat for two, I hope this BBQ Chicken Flatbread brings as much joy to your home as it does to ours. So why not give it a whirl tonight? With just a few ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you’ll be enjoying a slice (or more!) of comfort in no time.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Flatbread
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Ingredients:
- 2 flatbreads (8 inches, I prefer naan)
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- ¾ cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded cheddar
- ¼ red onion (sliced thin)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)
Directions:
- Set your oven to preheat at 425°F, allowing it to come up to temperature as you prepare the flatbreads.
- Position the flatbreads on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overlapping, and then spread a generous amount of barbecue sauce evenly across each one.
- Smoothly layer the mozzarella and cheddar over the BBQ sauce, ensuring every bite will be cheesy goodness.
- Scatter the shredded chicken over the cheese, following with the thin red onion slices for added zest.
- If desired, lightly drizzle some additional barbecue sauce over the toppings for an extra burst of flavor.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the flatbread edges are a nice golden hue.
- Right after pulling them from the oven, sprinkle chopped cilantro across for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Slice the flatbreads into pieces as you like – 3 to 4 slices per flatbread works well. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Best Ways to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Flatbread
Once your flatbread has cooled down, wrap any leftovers snugly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. Enjoy within 2-3 days for the freshest taste. When reheating, use the oven or a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispness without drying out the chicken.
How to Improvise Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Flatbread
No mozzarella or cheddar on hand? Don’t stress! This recipe is versatile. Provolone or gouda makes a wonderful creamy replacement, while jack cheese can add a spicier touch. If you’re lacking in barbecue sauce, blend ketchup, vinegar, and a dash of spices to create a quick homemade version.
The Best Accompaniments for BBQ Chicken Flatbread
A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the flavors of the flatbread beautifully. Consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine or crisp beer for a refreshing pairing. Garlic aioli or ranch dressing as a dipping sauce can also enhance each savory bite.
Seasonal Twists for BBQ Chicken Flatbread
In summer, swap out the red onions for sliced cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced bell peppers for a sweeter bite. During fall, a sprinkle of apple slices or figs complements the savory flavors perfectly. In winter, consider using roasted veggies like butternut squash for a heartier version.
Secrets to Perfecting BBQ Chicken Flatbread
To achieve maximum crispness, consider brushing a light layer of olive oil on the flatbread edges before baking. For a smokier BBQ flavor, grill your flatbreads on a BBQ or stovetop grill pan before adding toppings. For the freshest taste, opt for a rotisserie chicken that’s still warm before shredding.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of flatbread?
Absolutely! Naan offers a delicious base, but you can easily substitute it with pita bread, whole wheat flatbread, or even a thin pizza crust. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using a thicker or thinner base to ensure it bakes evenly without becoming too crunchy or undercooked.
What other toppings can I add to this flatbread?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Jalapeños or sliced olives could add a spicy or briny kick, respectively. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, diced bacon or smoked sausage work particularly well. Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, can also complement the barbecue flavors nicely.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Consider adding a layer of black beans or chickpeas for extra protein. A sprinkle of goat cheese can also provide a creamy contrast to the BBQ sauce.
Can I make this flatbread on a grill?
Definitely! Cooking on a grill can impart a delightful smoky flavor to the flatbread. Preheat your grill to medium-high, then place the topped flatbreads directly on the grates. Close the lid and monitor them closely, cooking for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the base is crisp.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free flatbread options available at most supermarkets. Double-check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, as some may contain gluten as a thickening agent. Assemble as usual and enjoy a delicious, gluten-free meal!
What’s the best way to transport this dish for a potluck?
For potlucks, prepare the flatbread as directed, then let it cool before slicing. Arrange the slices in a sturdy, airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven preheated to 350°F upon reaching your destination, to ensure freshness and flavor retention.
BBQ Chicken Flatbread
Ingredients
- 2 flatbreads flatbreads 8 inches, I prefer naan
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce plus extra for drizzling
- 3/4 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
- 1/4 red onion sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Lay the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of barbecue sauce over each flatbread.
- Evenly sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese atop the sauce.
- Next, add the shredded chicken and distribute the red onion slices on top. If you wish, drizzle a bit more barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the flatbread turn golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Cut them into 3-4 slices and serve right away. Enjoy the deliciousness!