Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe

If you love the irresistible combination of smoky barbecue and gooey cheese wrapped in soft, pillowy dough, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe. It’s that perfect crowd-pleaser snack or meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up. Imagine tender chicken mixed with tangy BBQ sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all rolled into bite-sized pockets of pure joy. Whether for game day, a family dinner, or casual get-together, these pizza rolls are bound to become one of your top go-tos.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe right is all about using the right simple ingredients that work together to create amazing flavors and textures. Each one plays a crucial role, from the dough’s fluffiness to the savory, cheesy filling.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our soft, chewy dough that holds everything together beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Just enough sweetness to help the yeast do its magic and balance the BBQ sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough’s structure.
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons): Makes the dough rise light and fluffy without long waiting times.
• ¾ cup warm water: Perfect temperature to activate the yeast and bring the dough together smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds tenderness to the dough and keeps it from getting tough.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce: The heart of the filling, delivering that tangy, smoky kick.
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Tender protein that soaks up all the delicious BBQ flavor.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty layer that makes every bite irresistibly cheesy.
• ½ cup diced red onion (optional): Adds a fresh sharpness and a little crunch to balance the rich flavors.

How to Make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Adding the warm water and olive oil, stir everything together until a rough dough forms. This is where the magic begins as you lay the foundation for soft, fluffy pizza rolls.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This kneading helps develop the gluten, giving you that perfect chewy texture. Afterward, let the dough rest for 10 minutes to relax and get ready for rolling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough into a 14 by 9 inch rectangle. Dust your surface lightly with flour if needed to prevent sticking. This shape makes it easy to layer all the delicious fillings evenly before rolling everything up.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the BBQ sauce over the entire dough rectangle, but leave a small border so it seals nicely when rolled. The generous layer of sauce ensures every bite has that bold, tangy barbecue flavor that makes this recipe so inviting.

Step 5: Layer the Chicken, Cheese, and Onion

Distribute the shredded chicken evenly over the BBQ sauce, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top. If you’re using red onion, scatter that over the cheese for a bit of zing and crunch. This filling combo is simply mouthwatering.

Step 6: Roll and Cut

Start rolling the dough tightly from the long side, like making a jelly roll, until you have a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. These individual rolls will bake into perfect bite-sized portions full of gooey deliciousness.

Step 7: Let the Rolls Rise

Place the cut rolls snugly into a greased baking dish. Cover the dish lightly with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for 30 minutes. This step ensures the rolls become fluffy and light, making every bite soft and tender.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pizza rolls for about 25 minutes until they’re golden brown on top and the cheese is bubbling. This is when the house fills with incredible smells, and you know you’re moments away from a delicious feast.

Step 9: Serve Warm with Extra BBQ Sauce

Once baked, serve these Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe treats warm, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. The contrast of the crispy edges, tender dough, and smoky filling is simply unbeatable.

How to Serve Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of ranch or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the experience with a creamy or spicy twist.

Side Dishes

Serve these pizza rolls alongside a crisp green salad or crunchy coleslaw to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted veggies or seasoned potato wedges for an ultimate comfort food combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for a casual, inviting look. You can even serve them as finger food at parties by skewering a few rolls with colorful picks, making them easy to grab and enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re still delicious when reheated, perfect for quick snacks or a second helping the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness or microwave for a quicker option, though the texture won’t be as crisp. Extra BBQ sauce is always a welcome addition during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is actually a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor without extra cooking. Just shred it up and you’re good to go.

Is it okay to substitute mozzarella cheese with another type?

Yes, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses if you prefer. Mozzarella melts beautifully, but feel free to tailor it to your taste.

Can I make these pizza rolls gluten-free?

While this recipe is designed for all-purpose flour, you can try a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might be a bit different. Make sure to follow your gluten-free blend’s instructions for yeast doughs.

How spicy are these pizza rolls?

They have a mild to moderate spice level depending on your BBQ sauce choice. If you want more heat, try adding some cayenne or hot sauce to the filling or serve with a spicy dip.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely! You can assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking, and you’ll have fresh, warm pizza rolls ready when you want.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls Recipe is such a fun and flavorful way to bring everyone together over a shared love of comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, packed with bold tastes, and perfect for almost any occasion. Once you try making these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. So go on, roll up your sleeves and dive into a batch—you won’t regret it!

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