Save to Pinterest My daughter asked for pizza one night, but we were out of dough and it was already 7 p.m. I spotted flatbreads in the pantry and leftover chicken in the fridge, and suddenly dinner turned into an experiment. The tangy BBQ sauce paired with melted mozzarella tasted even better than I expected. Now it's our go-to when we want something fast but special. Sometimes the best recipes happen when you're just trying to avoid the drive-thru.
I made this for a last-minute gathering once, and people kept asking if I'd ordered it from somewhere. The sweet caramelized onions and the way the cheese gets crispy around the edges fooled everyone. One friend even took a photo before grabbing a second slice. It's funny how something this simple can make you feel like you really pulled off something impressive.
What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔
Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.
Free. No spam. Just easy meals.
Ingredients
- Grilled chicken breast: The smoky flavor from grilling adds depth, but rotisserie chicken works just as well and saves you precious time on busy nights.
- Red onion: Slicing it thin is key so it softens and sweetens in the oven without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh cilantro: This is optional, but it adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gets those golden, bubbly spots that make every bite satisfying.
- BBQ sauce: Choose one with a good balance of sweet and tangy, and keep extra on hand for drizzling at the end.
- Thin flatbreads: Look for flatbreads that are sturdy enough to hold toppings but thin enough to crisp up quickly in a hot oven.
- Olive oil: Brushing the flatbread with oil before baking ensures a crispy, golden base that won't get soggy.
- Black pepper: A few grinds at the end bring out the flavors and add a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish.
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Instructions
- Get the oven ready:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks. This high heat is what gives the flatbread that crispy edge.
- Prep the flatbreads:
- Brush each flatbread lightly with olive oil and lay them flat on the baking sheet. The oil helps the base crisp up and adds a hint of richness.
- Spread the sauce:
- Use a spoon to spread BBQ sauce evenly across each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges. This border keeps the toppings from sliding off and gives you a nice crust.
- Layer the cheese:
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella over the sauce so it melts into every bite. You'll add more cheese later, but this base layer is essential.
- Add the chicken and onions:
- Scatter the grilled chicken and sliced red onions evenly across both flatbreads. Distributing them well ensures every slice gets a good mix of toppings.
- Top with more cheese:
- Add the remaining mozzarella over everything so it melts down and locks all the flavors together. Don't be shy with the cheese here.
- Bake until bubbly:
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for golden, bubbling cheese and crisp edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing.
- Finish and serve:
- Pull the flatbreads out, drizzle with extra BBQ sauce, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if you like. Slice them up and serve while they're still hot and crispy.
Save to Pinterest There's something satisfying about pulling these out of the oven and hearing that first crunch when you slice through. My husband once ate an entire flatbread by himself while standing at the counter, which I took as a compliment. It's become one of those recipes that feels like a treat but doesn't require any special occasion. Even my pickiest eater will grab a slice without hesitation.
Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇
Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.
Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.
Choosing the Right Flatbread
Not all flatbreads are created equal, and I learned this the hard way after one batch turned out chewy instead of crispy. Look for thinner varieties that are labeled as naan, pita flatbread, or lavash, and avoid anything too thick or doughy. The thinner the base, the crispier it gets, and that contrast with the melted cheese is what makes this dish work. If you can only find thicker flatbreads, just bake them a bit longer and maybe toast them lightly before adding toppings.
Customizing Your Toppings
Once you've mastered the basic version, this recipe becomes a blank canvas for whatever you have on hand. I've added roasted bell peppers, swapped cilantro for green onions, and even tried pineapple when I was feeling adventurous. My friend uses leftover pulled pork instead of chicken, and it's just as good. The key is balancing the sweet BBQ sauce with something savory or slightly acidic so it doesn't feel one-note.
Serving and Storing Tips
These flatbreads are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the edges are crisp. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat instead of the microwave so they regain that crispiness.
- Serve with a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
- Cut into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer for game day or casual gatherings.
- Pair with a cold beer, sparkling water with lime, or a chilled glass of rosé for a relaxed dinner vibe.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has saved more dinners than I can count, and it never feels boring. Whether you're feeding kids, impressing friends, or just treating yourself after a long day, it delivers every time.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving substitute for grilled chicken. Simply shred or dice it and use the same amount called for in the ingredients.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free flatbread instead of traditional wheat-based bread. Always check your BBQ sauce label as well, as some brands may contain gluten.
- → Can I add vegetables to this?
Absolutely. Sliced jalapeños add heat, while bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh arugula work beautifully. Add them before baking or as a fresh garnish afterward.
- → What cheese works best as a substitute?
Sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar create delicious variations. Any cheese that melts well will work nicely.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness, or enjoy cold.
- → What beverages pair well with this dish?
A crisp lager beer, chilled rosé wine, or ice-cold lemonade complement the smoky BBQ flavors beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, try iced tea or cola.
