Name: Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 oz mozzarella or cheddar cheese (cubed); 2 cups quick or rolled oats; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried herbs (basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning); 2 large eggs; Cooking spray (such as Misto); 1 lb boneless chicken thighs and/or breasts (cut into small pieces); Healthy BBQ sauce (quantity as desired); Favorite cheese (sliced, quantity as desired); Red onion (thinly sliced, quantity as desired); Cilantro (chopped, quantity as desired)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 14 reviews

If you’re craving a delicious homemade pizza that’s both unique and wholesome, this Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining a crispy, golden crust made from oats with tender BBQ chicken and melty cheese, this recipe brings together comfort and creativity in every bite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier twist on classic pizza, without sacrificing any of the bold, saucy flavors that make pizza so irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view inside a clear food processor bowl shows layers of ingredients ready to be mixed. The bottom layer consists of light beige rolled oats covering most of the space, with a small pile of pink salt and a sprinkle of dried herbs in the upper left area. Two bright yellow egg yolks sit side by side near the top center, surrounded by the other ingredients. The center features a white plastic blade attachment slightly covered with oats. The food processor bowl has a thick clear plastic rim and is placed on a dark base, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key because each one plays a vital role in making this pizza crust and topping sing with flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese that binds the crust to the vibrant cilantro garnish, every element is there for a reason.

2 oz mozzarella or cheddar cheese (cubed): Adds richness and helps bind the crust dough when processed.
2 cups quick or rolled oats: The star ingredient for a hearty, crispy crust with a subtle nutty flavor.
1 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of the oats and cheese.
1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a savory depth and warmth to the crust.
1 tsp dried herbs like basil (oregano or Italian): Adds an aromatic layer reflecting classic pizza flavors.
2 eggs (large): Acts as a natural binder that holds the crust together.
Cooking spray (I use Misto): Prevents sticking and ensures the crust gets that perfect crisp outside.
1 lb boneless chicken thighs and/or breasts (cut up in small pieces): Provides juicy, tender protein for the BBQ topping.
Healthy BBQ Sauce: Brings that irresistible smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Favourite cheese (sliced): Used for topping and melting beautifully on your pizza.
Red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a fresh, slightly sharp crunch to balance the richness.
Cilantro (chopped): Offers a pop of herbal freshness as a final garnish.

How to Make Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two pizza stones, round pans, or large baking sheets with unbleached parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking spray. This ensures the crust won’t stick and will bake evenly with a nice crispy bottom.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Pizza Crust Dough

In a food processor, blitz the cubed cheese on high until it turns into fine crumbs. Next, add the oats, salt, garlic powder, dried herbs, and eggs, then pulse everything together on high until you get a thick, cohesive dough. This dough is unique because it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with wholesome goodness.

Step 3: Shape Your Crusts

Divide the dough evenly onto your prepared baking sheets in dollops. With wet hands, gently flatten and shape each into a thin, round crust about ¼ of an inch thick. Remember, this dough doesn’t rise like traditional pizza dough, so shaping it thin from the start ensures a crispy, satisfying texture.

Step 4: Bake the Crusts

Bake both trays simultaneously for 25 minutes. If you have to rotate, place the top tray on a bottom rack for a few extra minutes to even out the crispiness. Once baked, you’ll have a golden, crunchy crust that’s ready for all your favorite toppings.

Step 5: Prepare the BBQ Chicken and Assemble the Pizza

While the crust bakes, cook your bite-sized chicken pieces in a large non-stick ceramic skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. Stir in your desired amount of BBQ sauce, then remove from heat. Spread BBQ sauce over the baked oat crusts, layer on cheese, chicken, red onions, and finish with chopped cilantro. Pop the pizzas back in the oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe

This pizza holds beautifully by the slice thanks to the thin, crunchy crust. Each slice delivers a perfect balance of smoky BBQ, melty cheese, and fresh onion with every bite. It’s a delightful way to enjoy pizza with a twist that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

How to Serve Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe

The image shows a sliced pizza with a thick, rough-textured crust that is golden brown and uneven. The toppings include melted cheese that is creamy white and slightly bubbly, covered with rich, dark reddish-brown sauce spread evenly across the surface. On top, there are chunks of dark brown cooked meat, thin slices of light purple-red onion, and scattered green cilantro leaves. The pizza rests on crumpled light brown parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like extra chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes really brighten this pizza’s flavor profile. A drizzle of a tangy yogurt-based sauce or a squeeze of lime over the top can add a fresh contrast that complements the BBQ richness wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted veggies to keep the meal balanced but exciting. A chilled coleslaw or corn salad also pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ chicken, creating a harmonious meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this pizza cut into small squares as finger foods for a party or game night. You can also drizzle a bit of extra BBQ sauce artistically around the plate or add a scattering of microgreens on top for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pizza slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oatmeal crust keeps its crispness quite well, though covering loosely with parchment paper helps maintain texture better than plastic wrap alone.

Freezing

If you want to save pizza for longer, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover or frozen pizza slices in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles back up and the crust regains its crisp. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that perfect crunch.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free oats for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using certified gluten-free oats is perfect for making this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your other ingredients, like BBQ sauce, are also gluten-free if needed.

Can I substitute chicken for a vegetarian topping?

Yes, you can swap the BBQ chicken for hearty grilled vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, or even BBQ jackfruit for a plant-based option with similar texture and flavor.

Does the oatmeal crust get soggy with toppings?

Thanks to its thin, crispy nature, the oatmeal crust holds up surprisingly well and stays crunchy even with moist toppings like BBQ chicken and sauce.

Can I make the crust dough without a food processor?

While a food processor makes it easy to get the cheese finely processed, you can grate the cheese manually and mix ingredients by hand. The dough won’t be quite as smooth, but it will still work.

How thick should I make the crust?

The ideal thickness is about a quarter of an inch since this dough doesn’t rise. This thickness ensures it bakes to a perfect crunch without drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Oatmeal Pizza Crust with BBQ Chicken Toppings Recipe is truly a delight to make and eat, offering a unique spin on a beloved classic. The wholesome oat crust delivers crisp texture while the BBQ chicken topping brings smoky, comforting flavors that everyone will love. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite pizza that becomes a regular in your kitchen!