Save This BBQ Chicken Flatbread Squares recipe is my go-to for casual hangouts and family movie nights when I want something craveable yet totally fuss-free. Imagine golden crisp flatbread topped with smoky chicken sweet and tangy barbecue sauce gooey cheese and a shower of fresh scallion slices all sliced into hand-friendly squares that disappear in minutes.
I whipped these up when I had half a BBQ takeaway container in the fridge and hungry kids asking for a snack after school. They polished them off and keep requesting them for every playdate now.
Ingredients
- Flatbread: sturdy base that stays crisp choose whole wheat or classic crusts
- Cooked chicken: shredded for easy topping rotisserie or grilled work beautifully and add more smoky depth
- Barbecue sauce: pick a good smoky variety with some tang homemade or bottled both shine
- Shredded mozzarella: melty texture use fresh for best stretch or pre shredded for ease
- Red onion: thinly sliced for crunch and a hint of bite select firm ones with glossy skin for best flavor
- Fresh cilantro or scallions: bright green herbs pop and add freshness look for vibrant color and no wilt
- Olive oil: for brushing ensures a golden crisp bake use extra virgin for best flavor
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Brush flatbread evenly with a thin layer of olive oil focusing on edges for extra crispiness set aside on the baking sheet
- Layer the Chicken and Sauce:
- Mix chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated then liberally distribute across the flatbread making sure you reach the corners for even bites
- Add the Cheese and Veggies:
- Scatter shredded mozzarella over chicken press gently to keep everything in place then top with sliced red onion covering the surface but not crowding
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide tray into a preheated oven at 425 F let bake for 10 to 13 minutes until cheese bubbles and crust edges look golden and slightly crisp watch closely after 10 minutes to avoid burning
- Finish and Garnish:
- Pull from oven let cool slightly then shower top with chopped cilantro or scallions cut into neat squares using a sharp pizza wheel serve at once
Save I always look forward to the mix of tangy sauce and fresh cilantro which lifts the richness plus my youngest loves piling on extra cheese and calling it her special pizza. The first time we made this together she insisted on helping with every step giggling as she scattered onions everywhere.
Storage Tips
Stash leftovers in an airtight container flat layers are best to keep them from getting soggy. Reheat uncovered on a tray at 350 F for about five minutes to crisp up the base again no need for a microwave which softens the crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or Monterey Jack for added sharpness. Use cooked turkey pork or even veggie sausage instead of chicken if you have extras to use up. Gluten free or cauliflower-based flatbreads work well for lighter versions.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are perfect for appetizers or paired with a crunchy slaw for a complete meal. Small bowls of ranch or chipotle mayo are great for dipping and a side of fresh fruit keeps the meal balanced.
Cultural and Historical Context
Flatbreads with toppings have roots in ancient Mediterranean cuisine but this barbecue twist is all about American comfort food. The blend of smoky chicken sweet sauce and cheese echoes classic backyard gatherings with pizza night vibes.
Save Try baking an extra batch so you always have these craveable squares on hand. They never last long at our house but they're easy to make again and again.
Cooking Guide
- → What kind of flatbread works best?
Thin, sturdy flatbread provides the crispiest base and holds toppings well. Try naan or store-bought pizza dough.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and absorbs barbecue sauce beautifully for maximum flavor.
- → Which cheese melts well on flatbread?
Mozzarella offers great melt and stretch, while cheddar adds sharp flavor. Consider blending both for balance.
- → How do I prevent soggy crust?
Bake flatbread briefly before adding toppings, use minimal sauce, and bake until the edges are golden and crisp.
- → What herbs enhance BBQ chicken squares?
Fresh cilantro or green onions add brightness and a touch of freshness, especially after baking.