Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls

Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the comfort of pizza with the fun of a hand-held roll. Recently, I decided to make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit! As I pulled the rolls from the oven, the aroma of tangy BBQ sauce and melted cheese filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. My family loved how each bite was bursting with flavor and texture, and they couldn’t get enough. These rolls are perfect for casual dinners, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress without a lot of fuss. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to make, look no further!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup diced red onion (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to allow it to rise slightly.

Roll Out the Dough

1. Roll the dough into a 14×9 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Aim for a consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.

Add the Filling

1. Spread the BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Evenly distribute the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and diced red onion over the sauce.

Roll and Cut

1. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
2. Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces, ensuring each piece has a good amount of filling.

Let the Rolls Rise

1. Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, leaving space between them for expansion.
2. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes in a warm area.

Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the pizza rolls for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

1. Serve the rolls warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy the melty cheese and tender chicken wrapped in a delicious dough!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 217
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 11g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (including rising time)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• As an appetizer: Perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Main dish: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Game day snack: Ideal for watching sports with friends.
• With dipping sauces: Try ranch or blue cheese alongside BBQ sauce.

Additional Tips

1. Golden Finish: Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil before baking for a golden, crispy texture.
2. Spice It Up: Add a little hot sauce to the BBQ sauce if you want a spicy kick.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
4. Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
5. Check for Doneness: Ensure the rolls are golden and the cheese is bubbly for the best results.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Different Sauces: Try buffalo sauce for a spicy twist or ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different taste.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach or bell peppers into the filling for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these rolls alongside a fresh garden salad or coleslaw for a light meal.
• Pair with potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a hearty side.
• They also go well with creamy dips like ranch or queso.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the rolls but do not bake them. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To bake from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Storing: Leftover baked rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought dough?

• Yes, you can use store-bought pizza or bread dough to save time.

1. What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

• Use your favorite BBQ sauce—smoky, tangy, or sweet, depending on your taste preference.

1. Can these be made ahead of time?

• Yes! You can assemble them a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking.

1. What can I substitute for shredded chicken?

• You can use cooked pulled pork, shredded beef, or even a plant-based protein.

1. How do I know when the rolls are done?

• They should be golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch.

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?

• Yes, but you may need to adjust the water amount as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

1. How do I make these rolls spicier?

• Add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix some hot sauce into the BBQ sauce.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• You can use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free BBQ sauce for a gluten-free version.

1. Can I bake these on a pizza stone?

• Yes, you can bake them on a preheated pizza stone for a crispier bottom.

1. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
   • Add a little more flour while kneading until the dough is smooth and manageable.

Conclusion

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls are a delightful fusion of flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. With their tender dough, savory filling, and gooey cheese, these rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, they invite everyone to dig in and enjoy. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and make these delicious rolls for your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!

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