Name: Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken thighs; 2 tsp garlic; ⅓ cup barbecue sauce; ½ tsp salt; 10 Taco Shells; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; ⅓ green bell pepper; ¼ red onion; ¼ cup mushrooms; 2 tbsp Olives; Italian pizza topper

When it comes to merging two delicious cuisines, this oven-baked BBQ chicken pizza tacos recipe never fails to impress. With the tenderness of chicken bathed in a tangy barbecue sauce, the crunch of a taco shell, and the familiar comfort of pizza toppings, it's a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

Photos of Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe should already be in your kitchen. However, you might want to check your pantry for a few specific items such as the Italian pizza topper, which adds an authentic touch to the dish. Furthermore, if you don't have BBQ sauce on hand, a wide variety of brands are available at your local supermarket. Remember, the flavor of your BBQ sauce of choice will significantly influence the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Olive oil: The fat element of this recipe, used for sautéing the chicken and garlic.

Chicken thighs: This part of the chicken is used for its tender and juicy texture.

Garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory flavor to the chicken.

Barbecue sauce: Coats the chicken, providing a tangy and smoky flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and sauce.

Taco shells: Provides the crunchy texture and the 'taco' aspect of this dish.

Mozzarella cheese: Gives a melty, cheesy layer to the dish, mimicking a pizza.

Green bell pepper: Adds a fresh, crunchy texture and vibrant color.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, tangy contrast to the other flavors.

Mushrooms: Adds a meaty texture and earthy flavor.

Olives: Gives a salty, briny flavor to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Italian pizza topper: A mix of herbs that adds an Italian twist to the dish.

One reader, Antoinette Larue says:

This oven-baked BBQ chicken pizza tacos recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the combination of BBQ chicken, cheese, and veggies in a taco shell is pure genius. It's a hit with my family every time. Try it and thank me later!

Antoinette Larue

Techniques Required for Making Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

How to sear the chicken: Heat the oil in a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and sear until golden and crisp.

How to assemble the tacos: Arrange the taco shells in the baking dish, then sprinkle shredded cheese into each taco shell. Spoon the chicken mixture into each shell on top of the cheese until all the chicken is used. Top with green pepper slices, onion slices, mushrooms, and olives. Finally, top the shells with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with the seasoning.

How to bake the tacos: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Then, bake the assembled tacos for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted through.

How To Make Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

These pizza tacos are brimming with pizza flavors inside a taco shell! It’s oven-baked to crispy perfection and takes only less than an hour to make.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspolive oil
1lbchicken thighs,boneless, skinless, diced into 1-inch pieces
2tspgarlic,minced
⅓cupbarbecue sauce
½tspsalt,to season
10taco shells,stand and stuff
2cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded
⅓green bell pepper,(capsicum), deseeded, thinly sliced
¼red onion,thinly sliced
¼cupmushrooms,sliced
2tbspolives,sliced
Italian pizza topper,or seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking oil spray. Set aside.
Heat the oil in a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken, then sear until golden and crisp. Add the garlic, then fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the barbecue sauce, then salt to season. Cook until the chicken is coated and glossy, and the sauce slightly thickens. Turn off the heat.

To Assemble:

Arrange the taco shells in the baking dish, then sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese into each taco shell.
Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each shell on top of the cheese until all the chicken is used.
Top with green pepper slices, onion slices, mushrooms, and olives.
Top the shells with the remaining cheese, then sprinkle with the seasoning.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted through.
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or condiments of choice, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 355.51kcal
Fat: 24.27g
Saturated Fat: 11.20g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.80g
Carbohydrates: 14.17g
Fiber: 1.14g
Sugar: 4.15g
Protein: 19.78g
Cholesterol: 90.71mg
Sodium: 557.61mg
Calcium: 321.54mg
Potassium: 202.27mg
Iron: 0.78mg
Vitamin A: 115.03µg
Vitamin C: 3.63mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

When preparing the chicken for this recipe, it's important to sear it well. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, gives the chicken a rich, caramelized flavor that will enhance the overall taste of your pizza tacos. To achieve a good sear, make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. Once the chicken is golden and crisp, it's ready for the barbecue sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the chicken and vegetable toppings in advance to save time when assembling the pizza tacos.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize leftover cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the chicken mixture and freeze the extra for future use in other recipes.

One-pan cooking: Cook the chicken and vegetable toppings in the same skillet to minimize cleanup and save time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating, saving time in the preparation process.

Pre-made taco shells: Use store-bought taco shells instead of making them from scratch to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the toppings and assemble the taco shells to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
chicken thighs - Substitute with pulled pork: Pulled pork can provide a rich, savory flavor and tender texture that complements the barbecue sauce and pizza toppings in the tacos.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with honey mustard: Honey mustard can offer a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, adding a different dimension to the tacos while still providing a saucy element.
taco shells - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for taco shells, providing a softer and more pliable base for the pizza tacos.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can bring a sharper and more pronounced flavor to the pizza tacos, complementing the barbecue chicken and other toppings.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can offer a slightly sweeter and milder flavor compared to green bell pepper, adding a pop of color and flavor to the pizza tacos.
mushrooms - Substitute with sliced zucchini: Sliced zucchini can provide a similar texture and mild flavor, adding a vegetable element to the pizza tacos.
olives - Substitute with sundried tomatoes: Sundried tomatoes can offer a rich, umami flavor and chewy texture, adding a different savory element to the pizza tacos.
Italian pizza topper - Substitute with dried oregano and basil: Dried oregano and basil can provide the herby, aromatic flavors typically found in Italian pizza topper, enhancing the overall taste of the pizza tacos.

How to Beautifully Present Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Elevate the taco shells: Gently warm the taco shells before serving to enhance their aroma and texture, and present them in a visually appealing arrangement on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the finished dish to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Carefully place the taco shells on the plate, ensuring that the toppings are evenly distributed and the melted cheese is beautifully presented.
Incorporate a drizzle of barbecue sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to create a delicate drizzle of barbecue sauce around the plate for an artistic touch and added flavor.
Add a touch of elegance with microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the finished dish to add a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the dish on elegant, high-quality plates or platters to enhance the overall dining experience and showcase the culinary artistry.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Oven: An appliance used for baking or roasting food.
Skillet or pan: A flat-bottomed cooking utensil used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
9x13-inch baking dish: A rectangular dish used for baking and roasting food in the oven.
Cooking oil spray: A spray used to prevent food from sticking to cooking surfaces.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and flipping food.
Cheese grater: A tool used to grate cheese into fine pieces.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Spoon: A utensil consisting of a small, shallow bowl on a long handle, used for stirring, serving, and tasting food.
Oven mitts: Insulated gloves used to protect hands from hot surfaces and objects in the kitchen.
Cutting board: A durable board used to protect countertops when cutting or chopping food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.

How To Store and Freeze Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Let the oven-baked bbq chicken pizza tacos cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the tacos in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the tacos:
- Wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure they are tightly sealed.
- Place the wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen oven-baked bbq chicken pizza tacos will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated tacos, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
For frozen tacos, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat them in the oven as described above.
Alternatively, you can reheat the tacos in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispness. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover oven-baked bbq chicken pizza tacos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are heated through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the taco shells while reheating the filling evenly.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-60 seconds, depending on the number of tacos and your microwave's wattage. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in slightly softer taco shells.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the tacos in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are heated through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the shells while reheating the filling quickly.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the tacos effectively. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos directly on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are warmed through. This method allows for even heating and helps maintain the crispiness of the taco shells.
For a stovetop reheating option, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the tacos in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tacos are heated through. This method allows for quick reheating and helps maintain the crispiness of the shells.

Random Fact About BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

The barbecue sauce used in this recipe contains a blend of spices, vinegar, and sweetness, which adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional taco. BBQ sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to pizza toppings, making it a staple in many kitchens.

Is Making Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos at Home Cost-Effective?

This oven-baked BBQ chicken pizza tacos recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the essence of barbecue chicken with the classic appeal of pizza and tacos. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken thighs, bell peppers, and onions makes it a cost-effective choice for households. The approximate cost for a family of four is around $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, as it provides a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to please both adults and kids alike.

Is This BBQ Chicken Pizza Taco Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for oven-baked BBQ chicken pizza tacos is a creative fusion of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe uses chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.
Barbecue sauce often contains added sugars and sodium, which can contribute to excess calorie intake and high blood pressure.
Taco shells are typically made from refined grains, lacking the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of mozzarella cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as olive oil, garlic, and various vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. These ingredients provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for leaner chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce the overall fat content.
Choose a low-sugar, reduced-sodium barbecue sauce, or make your own using natural ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Replace the regular taco shells with whole grain or corn tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
Reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese used, or select a low-fat cheese alternative.
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the recipe to boost the nutrient content and add more fiber.
Serve the tacos with fresh, homemade salsa or guacamole instead of high-calorie condiments like sour cream.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this tasty and inventive meal.

Editor's Thoughts on Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe

The oven-baked BBQ chicken pizza tacos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken with the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, and the gooey melted mozzarella cheese is simply irresistible. The addition of fresh vegetables and olives adds a burst of color and freshness, elevating the dish to a whole new level. The taco shells provide a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, and it's sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.

Enhance Your Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Freshly grilled pineapple chunks mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a sweet and tangy salsa.

Smoked Paprika Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries seasoned with smoky paprika for a flavorful and slightly spicy kick.

Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze for a burst of flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Grilled Peaches: Juicy grilled peaches sprinkled with a sweet cinnamon sugar blend for a delightful dessert-like side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls: Grill the steak to perfection and slice it thinly. Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa, and top with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and your favorite fajita toppings.

Mango Salsa Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Marinate the chicken in a tangy mango salsa, then grill or bake until cooked through. Serve the chicken in lettuce cups and top with extra mango salsa for a refreshing and light meal.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Sauté onions and garlic, then add in fresh tomatoes and basil. Simmer until the flavors meld together, then blend until smooth. Finish with a swirl of cream for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Toss fresh berries with sugar and a touch of lemon juice, then top with a buttery cobbler topping. Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a delightful start to any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fries: Transform ordinary zucchini into a crispy and addictive appetizer by coating them in seasoned breadcrumbs and baking them until golden brown. The crunchy exterior gives way to tender zucchini, creating a satisfying and flavorful bite that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake. The contrast between the molten center and the slightly crisp exterior creates a delightful sensory experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake. The combination of smooth, velvety cheesecake filling and sweet, tangy strawberry topping is a match made in dessert heaven.

Why trust this Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the savory goodness of barbecue sauce with the succulent tenderness of chicken thighs. The addition of mozzarella cheese brings a rich and creamy texture, while the medley of green bell pepper, red onion, mushrooms, and olives infuses a burst of freshness. The aromatic blend of garlic and the tantalizing Italian pizza topper elevates the dish to a whole new level. Trust in the harmony of these ingredients to create a mouthwatering experience that will surely delight your taste buds.

Want to share your own creative pizza taco creations or discuss the Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken breast tends to cook faster than thighs.

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese you prefer. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would all work well in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with your favorite meat alternative or adding more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

Can I prepare the taco shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the taco shells in advance and store them in an airtight container. However, it's best to assemble and bake the tacos just before serving to ensure the shells stay crispy.

Can I freeze the leftover baked tacos?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover baked tacos. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven until heated through.