In a medium bowl, combine the chicken and barbecue sauce, mixing well. Allow the mixture to marinate for a few minutes, or for the best flavor, let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step enhances the taste and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. A hot oven ensures the pizza dough rises well and becomes golden brown.
Roll out the fresh pizza dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza stone. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch it into your desired shape and thickness. If you prefer a thicker crust, keep it slightly thicker around the edges.
Lightly brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil, leaving about a 1-inch edge. This will help your crust crisp up nicely in the oven, giving it that delicious golden finish.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Make sure to cover the entire surface, as the cheese will melt and create a beautiful layer of gooey goodness.
Evenly distribute the marinated chicken on top of the cheese. Be sure to include any extra barbecue sauce from the bowl, as it adds even more flavor.
Top the pizza with the chopped red onion, distributing it evenly. The onions will caramelize slightly in the oven, adding a lovely sweetness to your pizza.
Garnish with cilantro before baking. This will not only add flavor but also a beautiful pop of color.
Bake the pizza on the middle or top rack for 9 to 13 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Then, cut into pieces and serve hot!
