BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls: Just Like Mom Used to Make, But with a Crispy, Cheesy Twist!

BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls: : when you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many of us, delicious, homemade snacks remind us of the love and warmth of family kitchens. One such delightful snack is BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls. These tasty treats offer the perfect blend of gooey cheese, tender chicken, and zesty barbecue sauce. They’re crispy on the outside and packed with flavor on the inside, making them a fantastic choice for a snack, party appetizer, or even a quick dinner. Just like Mom used to make, you’ll find yourself reaching for these BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls. First and foremost, they are incredibly simple to make. You don’t need to be a professional cook to whip up a batch; these rolls are perfect for both novice and experienced chefs. They come together quickly, making them a great option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can serve BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls as an appetizer at a party, as a finger food for watching the big game, or as a fun family dinner. Everyone loves pizza, and when you add BBQ chicken and roll it up in a crispy crust, it becomes an irresistible snack that is sure to satisfy any craving.

And let’s not forget about the flavor! With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce enveloped in a crispy shell, each bite is a delicious explosion of taste. Plus, they are easy to customize, allowing you to use your favorite ingredients or add a twist to cater to your family’s preferences. Once you try these rolls, you will want to make a double batch!

How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls

Making BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls is straightforward and fun. Let’s get started by gathering the ingredients required for this mouthwatering snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 package (1 pound) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your rolls will bake perfectly crispy.

2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce. If you’re using red onion and cilantro, add them in as well. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated in sauce.

3. Roll Out the Pizza Dough: Lightly dust your countertop or a clean surface with all-purpose flour. Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

4. Add the Chicken Mixture: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about an inch of border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture. This adds an extra layer of gooey goodness!

5. Roll It Up: Starting from one of the shorter sides, carefully roll the dough up tightly, making sure to seal the edges as you go. Pinch the ends and seam to ensure the filling doesn’t escape while baking.

6. Slice the Rolls: Once you have a tight roll, use a sharp knife to cut it into even slices, about 1 to 2 inches thick.

7. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sliced rolls on the baking sheet, leaving space between each roll for them to expand.

8. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over the tops of the rolls. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

9. Bake the Rolls: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

10. Cool and Serve: Once they are done, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls

BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls are very versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas to enjoy them:

• As an Appetizer: Serve them warm with extra barbecue sauce or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. This is perfect for parties and gatherings.
• As a Main Dish: Pair the rolls with a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal. The contrast between the crispy rolls and a crisp salad is delightful.
• For Game Day: Plate them up and serve while watching your favorite game. They are easy to pick up and eat, contributing to a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
• With Extras: Top the rolls with additional toppings like jalapeños, olives, or different cheeses based on your preference.

No matter how you serve them, your family and friends will be asking for more!

How to Store BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls

If you happen to have any leftovers (although they will be hard to resist!), here’s how to store them:

• Cool Completely: Allow the rolls to cool to room temperature before storing them. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Use Airtight Containers: Place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and delicious.
• Refrigerate: Store the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Tips for Preparing BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Dough Alternatives: If you don’t have pizza dough, you can use crescent roll dough or puff pastry for a different texture.
• Flavor Boosters: Add spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for added depth of flavor.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses such as pepper jack, gouda, or even cream cheese for unique flavors.
• Don’t Overfill: Make sure not to overload the rolls with the chicken mixture, as this can cause them to burst while baking.

Variation (If Applicable)

There are many ways to make BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls your own. Here are a couple of variations to consider:

• Buffalo Chicken Pizza Rolls: Instead of barbecue sauce, use buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Add blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.
• Veggie BBQ Rolls: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Toss them in BBQ sauce for that familiar flavor.
• Different Sauces: Mix things up by substituting the barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce or a homemade sauce made with garlic and soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time if they start out cold.

2. How do I reheat BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls? You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep the rolls crispy.

3. Can I customize the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to use different proteins and sauces. Add your favorite vegetables, or even use different cheeses to create your own unique version of BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls embody comfort food at its finest. With their crispy, cheesy, and savory nature, they truly reflect those cherished moments in the kitchen that many of us remember fondly. Whether served at a gathering, as a fun snack, or a weeknight meal, these rolls are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table. Try making a double batch—you’ll find they disappear quickly! Enjoy the delightful flavors that remind you of home with this simple and tasty recipe. 🍕🔥