BBQ Chicken Flatbread

By Juno

Updated on

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a quick, crowd-pleasing meal? BBQ Chicken Flatbread is that dish you whip up when you want something that tastes like a million bucks without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s loaded with smoky, cheesy goodness, has just the right amount of spice, and is honestly so simple, you’ll want to make it every week. Seriously, it’s so good, you might find yourself making a double batch just to keep up with how quickly it disappears.

BBQ flatbread with chicken, melted cheese, barbecue sauce, and fresh cilantro leaves.

Difficulty

Easy

Prep time

15 minutes

Cooking time

12 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Lunch just got a whole lot more exciting with this BBQ Chicken Flatbread recipe! If you’re in the mood for something equally satisfying, why not try BBQ Chicken Nachos: A Tasty Lunch Favorite? It’s loaded with bold flavors that pair perfectly with this flatbread. And for a lighter, veggie-packed option, check out the refreshing Antipasto Salad Recipe—it’s a crowd-pleaser and a breeze to whip up. Both make excellent additions to your lunch rotation!

Here’s the thing—whether you’re planning a quick lunch break, need a family-friendly midday meal, or want to impress your friends at a casual lunch gathering, this flatbread gets the job done. And don’t even get me started on how amazing it smells when it’s baking. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone in the house come running. Ready to bring a little barbecue magic to your table? Let’s dive into this recipe, step by step.

What Makes BBQ Chicken Flatbread Special?

This flatbread is more than just lunch; it’s an experience. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, juicy chicken, and melty cheese hits all the right notes. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Flavor Explosion: Every ingredient complements the others perfectly, creating a balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy.
  • Versatile: Great for kids and adults alike, and you can tweak it to suit your taste. Add more spice, extra cheese, or even swap out ingredients—the choice is yours.
  • No-Fuss Cooking: Minimal prep and cook time make it ideal for busy days or when you just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.

When to Serve BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Not sure when to whip up this dish? It’s perfect for:

  • Casual Lunch Gatherings: Impress your friends with minimal effort. Pair it with a simple salad and iced tea, and you’re set.
  • Midday Comfort Meals: When you need something quick yet satisfying that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Even picky eaters love this flatbread. The cheese and BBQ combo is hard to resist for kids and adults alike.
  • Meal Prepping: Make the components ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to eat. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks.
Closeup of BBQ chicken flatbread with melted cheese, barbecue sauce, fresh cilantro, and red onions.

Ingredients You’ll Need for BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Chicken Breasts

I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option if you want to cut down on prep time. Season the chicken for extra flavor or skip this step if you’re using pre-cooked chicken.

Seasoning

A mix of salt, pepper, dried oregano, and tarragon gives the chicken a wonderful, subtle flavor. Add red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for some heat.

Barbecue Sauce

Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. I recommend a high-quality, low-sugar option, but any sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce will work. You can even make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.

Flatbread

Look for flatbread in the bread aisle of your local grocery store. Naan bread or lavish bread are excellent alternatives and can help reduce calories if desired.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is my go-to for its meltiness and mild flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish that’s simply irresistible.

Bell Pepper

I use red bell peppers for their sweetness, but any variety works. For a twist, try jalapeños for spice or add pineapple for a sweet-savory combo.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced red onions add a slight sweetness and crunch to every bite. If you’re not a fan, try caramelizing them for a milder flavor.

Garlic

Minced garlic takes the BBQ sauce to the next level. Don’t skip this—it’s a small step that makes a big impact.

Cilantro

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro ties the flavors together and adds a fresh, herbaceous finish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works as a substitute.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Red Pepper Flakes: Perfect for adding a touch of heat.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle this on top for extra cheesy goodness.

All other ingredients and measurements are listed below in the recipe card.

Recipe Variations

Chicken

Use rotisserie chicken if you want to speed things up. It’s a quick and easy option that still tastes amazing. If you prefer, swap chicken for pulled pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.

BBQ Sauce

Stick with your favorite store-bought sauce, or try making your own using a homemade recipe for a personal touch.

Cheese

Mozzarella is a classic choice, but feel free to mix things up. Manchego, cheddar, goat cheese, and even blue cheese all pair wonderfully with BBQ chicken.

Flatbread

Naan or lavish bread are excellent alternatives. You can even use pita bread if that’s what you have on hand.

Bell Pepper

Go wild with your choice of bell peppers, or try jalapeños to spice things up. Adding sliced pineapple can create a delightful sweet-savory combination that’s hard to resist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, oregano, tarragon, and salt. If you’re feeling fancy, let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up the flavors. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Shortcut Tip: If you’ve got leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken on hand, go ahead and use that. It’ll save you time, and honestly, it’s just as delicious. Bonus points if the rotisserie chicken already has some seasoning on it—extra flavor without extra effort!

2. Assemble the Flatbread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (because who wants a cold flatbread, right?). Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet or pizza stone.

Spread BBQ sauce evenly over each flatbread. Make sure to leave a little space around the edges—like a crust on a pizza. Sprinkle the minced garlic on top. Trust me, this little detail makes a big difference in flavor and aroma.

3. Add the Toppings

Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the mozzarella over the BBQ sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Next, layer on the chopped red bell peppers, red onions, and chicken. If you’re using red pepper flakes or parmesan, now’s the time to sprinkle those on too. Don’t be shy with the toppings—more is more when it comes to flatbread!

4. Bake to Perfection

Pop the flatbreads into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it—there’s nothing worse than burnt cheese (well, maybe burnt toast). If you like your flatbread extra crispy, leave it in for an extra minute or two.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the flatbreads are out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top. This final touch adds a burst of freshness that balances all the smoky, cheesy goodness. Slice into wedges and serve immediately. Get ready for a round of “Oohs” and “Ahs” from everyone at the table. Don’t forget to have extra napkins on hand—things can get delightfully messy.

Tips for Success

  • Pick the right BBQ sauce: If you like a sweeter flavor, go for a honey-based sauce. Prefer a kick? Grab a spicy BBQ sauce. You can even mix sauces for a flavor combo that’s uniquely yours.
  • Don’t skip the garlic: It might seem small, but that minced garlic layer adds so much depth to the flavor. It’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together.
  • Use sturdy flatbreads: No one wants a soggy flatbread that falls apart. Pita bread or naan works great too, and whole wheat versions add a nice nutty flavor.
BBQ flatbread topped with chicken, barbecue sauce, cheese, red onions, and fresh cilantro on a wooden surface.

How to Store and Reheat BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Proper storage is absolutely essential for keeping your BBQ Chicken Flatbread fresh and tasty. First and foremost, once you’ve enjoyed your meal, store any leftover flatbread in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture. Place the container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, the oven is your best bet for achieving the original crispy texture—simply set it to 350°F and let the flatbread warm through for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, a skillet is an excellent option for a quick warm-up; just heat it over medium heat and toast the flatbread until it’s hot and the cheese is melty. This approach ensures your leftovers taste just as good as the first time around, making it easy to enjoy your flatbread whenever you want.

Print
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BBQ flatbread with chicken, melted cheese, barbecue sauce, and fresh cilantro leaves.

BBQ Chicken Flatbread


  • Author: Juno
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

BBQ Chicken Flatbread is a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner option. Loaded with BBQ sauce, tender chicken, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, it’s perfect for a family meal or casual gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp dried tarragon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 flatbreads
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, sliced
  • 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 Tbsp parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Season chicken breasts with olive oil, oregano, tarragon, and salt. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let cool and shred or chop.
  3. Spread BBQ sauce evenly on the flatbreads, leaving a slight border.
  4. Add minced garlic, mozzarella, red bell pepper, red onion, and chicken as toppings. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and parmesan if desired.
  5. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Try naan or lavish bread as an alternative to flatbread.
  • For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 flatbread)
  • Calories: 375
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken flatbread recipe, easy lunch ideas, flatbread toppings, BBQ chicken pizza, cheesy flatbread

FAQs About BBQ Chicken Flatbread

How Many Calories Are in BBQ Chicken Flatbread?

The calorie count for BBQ Chicken Flatbread can vary depending on the ingredients used, especially the type of flatbread, cheese, and BBQ sauce. On average, one serving is approximately 350-400 calories.

What Is the Recipe for BBQ Chicken Flatbread?

This recipe combines juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and melty cheese on a flatbread base. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Refer to the recipe card above for detailed instructions.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Pulled pork, shrimp, or even tofu would be amazing substitutes if you’re not feeling chicken. Just make sure it’s seasoned well to complement the BBQ sauce.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Swap the flatbread for your favorite gluten-free option. There are some great store-bought choices these days that taste just as good as the regular ones.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the flatbread crispy. You can also pop it in a skillet for a quick reheat if you’re short on time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep all the toppings ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake the flatbreads fresh for the best texture and flavor. If you’re meal prepping, store the components separately and put them together when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Flatbread is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly super easy to make. Whether you’re throwing together a last-minute lunch or planning a casual midday get-together, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can tweak the toppings to fit whatever mood you’re in (or whatever’s in your fridge). And let’s be honest, it’s one of those meals you’ll keep coming back to because it’s just that good.

So, what are you waiting for? Get those flatbreads ready and make your kitchen smell amazing today. And hey, don’t forget to snap a pic for Instagram before everyone devours it. Trust me, this one’s a keeper! Enjoy your lunch!

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