Description
This BBQ chicken flatbread combines smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheeses on a toasted naan base. It’s crisp at the edges yet soft in the center, making it a perfect mix between pizza and easy flatbread. The sauce caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the dish a deeply flavorful finish that feels homemade and comforting. Ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or quick appetizers.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces naan flatbread (store-bought or homemade, about 8 inches each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the naan)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smoky flavor)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded (use leftovers or rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded smoked gouda (optional for extra melt and flavor)
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to preheat for 10 minutes until hot.
- Prepare the base: Brush both sides of the naan with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with smoked paprika. This helps the edges crisp while baking.
- Toss the chicken: In a small bowl, combine shredded chicken with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce until evenly coated and glossy.
- Assemble the flatbread: Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce (about 1 tablespoon) over each naan. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and gouda, then top with sauced chicken pieces.
- Add toppings: Arrange sliced red onion evenly over the surface for color and texture. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Bake the flatbread: Transfer the naans to the hot baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown and crisp.
- Broil for finish: Turn the oven to broil at 500°F (260°C) and broil 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until small dark spots appear on the cheese surface.
- Add garnish: Remove from oven, drizzle lightly with extra barbecue sauce, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
- Slice and serve: Cut each flatbread into wedges or squares. Serve warm with extra sauce or a side salad if desired.
- Visual cue: The flatbread is ready when cheese is bubbling and golden, and the naan bottom feels crisp when lifted.
Notes
- Substitutions: Use buffalo sauce or pesto instead of barbecue for flavor variety; swap smoked gouda for cheddar or provolone as desired.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the flatbread up to 4 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate unbaked.
- Storage: Leftover slices keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until hot and the cheese re-melts.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with a crisp coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
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