Name: Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza: A Bold Twist on Tradition
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Prepared Pizza Dough (Use store-bought or homemade for convenience.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Can use low-fat cheese as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Gochujang BBQ Sauce (Mix regular barbecue sauce and sriracha for heat if needed.); 2 cups Korean BBQ Chicken Thighs (leftover) (Any grilled or fried chicken can be used in its place.); 1 cup Kimchi (Choose a mild or spicy version according to your preference.); ¼ cup Scallions (Green onions can be a suitable alternative.)

As I pulled that pizza out of the oven, the rich aroma of Gochujang sauce filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling Korean street market. This Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza with Kimchi is the perfect way to take your pizza night to an exciting new level. Using leftovers creatively transforms a regular dinner into a flavorful, comforting creation that celebrates a delightful fusion of Korean and Italian cuisines. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll create a pizza topped with gooey mozzarella and a tangy crunch from kimchi, making it not only a quick weeknight meal but also a tasty way to nourish those adventurous taste buds of yours. Who knew a simple idea could lead to such an incredible bite? Ready to take a culinary spin with your leftovers?

Why Make Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza?

Easy and Fast: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weekday dinner.

Creative Use of Leftovers: Transform last night’s Korean BBQ chicken into a mouthwatering pizza, reducing food waste while tantalizing your taste buds.

Bold Flavor Fusion: The spicy Gochujang sauce combined with creamy mozzarella and crunchy kimchi creates an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family or guests with a unique dish that combines the best of Korean and Italian cuisines, turning an ordinary pizza night into a memorable feast.

Customizable Options: Feel free to swap in different proteins or cheeses—why not try this with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist? You can even use any leftover vegetables or toppings you have on hand.

This Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza is truly a delightful culinary adventure that brings excitement back into your kitchen!

Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza Ingredients

For the Pizza Base
• Prepared Pizza Dough – Use store-bought or homemade for convenience.

For the Toppings
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides creaminess; low-fat cheese can be a lighter substitute.
• Gochujang BBQ Sauce – Infuses deliciously spicy flavor; substitute with a mix of regular barbecue sauce and sriracha for heat.
• Korean BBQ Chicken Thighs (leftover) – Source of protein and flavor; any grilled or fried chicken can be used in its place.
• Kimchi – Offers a crunchy texture; choose a mild or spicy version according to your preference, or swap it for pickled veggies.
• Scallions – Adds a fresh garnish; green onions can be a suitable alternative.

This treasured recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also make inventive use of your leftovers. Enjoy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the middle of the oven to heat up and ensure a crispy crust. Allow this to heat for at least 30 minutes, giving your pizza the perfect foundation for that delightful Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your prepared pizza dough into a 12-inch round shape. Using a pizza peel will make transferring the pizza to the stone much easier. Aim for a slightly thicker edge for the crust – this will puff up beautifully during baking.

Step 3: Sauce Application
Brush the surface of the dough with approximately 2 tablespoons of Gochujang BBQ sauce, ensuring to stay about ½ inch from the edge for a clean crust. This sauce is the star of your Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza, so make sure to spread it evenly to create a flavorful base.

Step 4: Cheese and Toppings
Next, sprinkle ½ to ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce-covered dough. Layer thin slices of your leftover Korean BBQ chicken on top, followed by squeezing on the kimchi. The combination of flavors will create a symphony of tastes that elevates this pizza to the next level.

Step 5: Final Touch
Add another ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese on top, ensuring a beautifully gooey finish. Drizzle a bit more Gochujang BBQ sauce over everything for that extra kick. This layering ensures you get the perfect balance of cheesy, spicy goodness in every bite of your Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza.

Step 6: Bake
Carefully slide your pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The aroma will fill your kitchen and tease your taste buds as you anticipate the deliciousness of your creation.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with sliced scallions for a pop of freshness. Slice the pizza into wedges and serve while warm, letting everyone enjoy the bold flavors of the Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza that you’ve created with love.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pizza dough and leftover Korean BBQ chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll and shape the dough, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The chicken can also be shredded and stored in an airtight container. For best flavor, make your Gochujang BBQ sauce from scratch or have it on hand. When ready to enjoy, just assemble the pizza—spread sauce, layer with mozzarella, chicken, and kimchi—then bake for 15-20 minutes at 425°F (220°C). The result? A delicious, fresh pizza that saves you time while still being just as delightful!

Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza

Preheat Thoroughly: Ensure your pizza stone or steel is completely preheated for that crispy crust. A cold surface will lead to soggy pizza.
Sauce Balance: Avoid slathering too much Gochujang BBQ sauce on the dough, which can make it soggy. A thin, even layer maximizes flavor and maintains crust integrity.
Kimchi Squeeze: If using fresh kimchi, make sure to squeeze out excess liquid before topping to prevent the pizza from becoming watery.
Cheese Choices: Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or using low-fat mozzarella to suit your dietary preferences while still enjoying this Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza.
Toppings Variety: Don’t be afraid to customize! Experiment with leftover proteins or veggies to suit your taste, creating endless flavor possibilities.
Cool Before Slicing: Let your pizza cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice without pulling toppings off.

How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents the pizza from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to revive the crispy crust.

Slice and Store: If you prefer to store individual slices, wrap them in parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container, ensuring each piece stays fresh.

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza

A vibrant meal is just a few perfect pairings away, enhancing the wonderful fusion of flavors in this pizza.

Tangy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing dish balances the spiciness of the pizza, offering a crunchy contrast that’s light and bright.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Rich in flavor, the earthy notes of roasted broccoli complement the sweetness of the Gochujang, making it a satisfying side.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Their comforting crunch provides a delightful texture, perfect for soaking up any leftover pizza sauce.
Sesame Edamame: Nutty and slightly salty, these steamed edamame bring a fresh, vibrant touch that pairs beautifully with Korean BBQ flavors.
Kimchi Fried Rice: Reinforce those bold tastes by serving this iconic Korean dish, making each bite a celebration of extravagance.
Chilled Soju Cocktails: The lightness of a fruity soju cocktail refreshes the palate, perfectly matching the robust flavors of the pizza.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finale, this Thai dessert offers a rich and creamy contrast, delightfully rounding out your meal with a tropical twist.

Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish truly your own! Explore these tantalizing twists and substitutions for your Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza.

Seafood Edition: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or calamari for a delightful seafood twist that adds a unique flavor.
Veggie Delight: Use roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini instead of meat for a colorful, plant-based option. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant taste!
Cheese Swap: Experiment with smoky gouda or sharp cheddar for a different cheese profile that enhances flavor depth.
Spicy Kicker: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat and make every bite a fiery adventure!
Sauce Variety: For a milder taste, blend a bit of sweet chili sauce with the Gochujang BBQ sauce for a sweet-spicy delight.
Asian Fusion: Incorporate slices of fresh pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist, reminiscent of Hawaiian pizza but with a Korean flair.
Crunch Factor: Top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds after baking for an extra crunch that complements the chewy texture of cheese.
Swap the Base: Try a cauliflower crust or whole wheat dough for a healthier alternative to the traditional pizza base.

After you’ve mastered this Korean Chicken BBQ Pizza, you might enjoy trying other global recipes like Honey BBQ Chicken for another flavor-packed homemade meal!

Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for my pizza?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for your Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza, aim for thighs or breasts that are fresh and plump, with no discoloration. If you’re using leftovers, try to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned, as this will elevate the flavor of your pizza. Dark meat, like thighs, tends to be juicier, but you can use grilled or fried chicken from any cuisine for a great taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
Very! To keep your pizza fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the pizza’s integrity, wrap individual slices in parchment paper before placing them in the container. This ensures each piece stays flavorful and doesn’t dry out.

Can I freeze my Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow your pizza to cool completely after baking. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for a crispy crust.

How should I reheat leftover pizza?
It’s easy! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This method helps maintain that crispy crust. I often add a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating for more gooeyness!

Is this pizza suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Very! If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular pizza dough for a gluten-free crust. There are many great store-bought options available, or you can even make your own. Your gluten-free guests will enjoy the bold flavors just as much as everyone else!

What if I don’t have kimchi on hand?
No worries! If you don’t have kimchi, you can substitute it with pickled vegetables like radishes or cucumbers, which will still add a nice crunch and brightness. You can also try other toppings like sautéed bell peppers or olives for a different twist while retaining that fusion flair in your Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza!