Barbecued Chicken Tortilla Pizzas: A Grill Masterpiece

I’ll never forget the first time I made these barbecued chicken tortilla pizzas. It was a sweltering summer evening, the air thick with the scent of charcoal and anticipation. My nephew, a notoriously picky eater, was visiting. I needed something quick, easy, and, most importantly, appealing to his discerning palate. One bite of this smoky, cheesy creation, and his eyes lit up. From that moment on, these tortilla pizzas became a family favorite, a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients meet the fiery kiss of the grill.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Servings: 16 wedges (2 tortillas, cut into 8 wedges each)
• Yield: 2 pizzas
• Dietary Type: Not specified (easily adaptable for gluten-free if using corn tortillas)

Ingredients

• 2 (10-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 1/2 cups Lloyd’s shredded barbecued chicken (from 32-ounce tub)
• 2/3 cup chopped tomato
• 2 cups Monterey Jack pepper cheese, shredded (8 ounces)
• Salsa, if desired

Equipment Needed

• Gas grill or charcoal grill
• Tongs
• Pizza cutter or knife

Instructions

1. Preheat your gas grill to medium heat or prepare your charcoal grill for direct heat. You want the coals to be glowing and evenly distributed.

2. Evenly distribute the shredded barbecued chicken over the two flour tortillas. Each tortilla should receive approximately 3/4 cup of the chicken.

3. Sprinkle the chopped tomato evenly over the chicken on both tortillas. Use about 1/3 cup of tomatoes per tortilla.

4. Generously cover the chicken and tomato mixture with the shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese. Each tortilla should have about 1 cup of cheese. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to ensure proper melting.

5. Carefully place the prepared tortillas directly onto the grill grates.

6. Close the grill lid and grill for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned, and the chicken is heated through. Keep a close eye on the pizzas to prevent the tortillas from burning. If using a charcoal grill, you may need to adjust the distance between the coals and the tortillas to regulate the heat.

7. Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is hot, carefully remove the tortillas from the grill using tongs. Place them on a cutting board.

8. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut each tortilla into 8 wedges.

9. Serve immediately with salsa, if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Preheat Perfection: Make sure your grill is properly preheated. This ensures even cooking and prevents the tortillas from sticking.
• Cheese Consistency: Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can hinder its melting ability.
• Spice It Up (or Down): If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute plain Monterey Jack cheese for the pepper jack. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese before grilling.
• Tortilla Troubles: If your tortillas are sticking to the grill, lightly brush the grates with oil before placing the pizzas on them.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Work in batches if necessary, especially if you have a smaller grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and result in uneven cooking.
• Charcoal Control: With charcoal, manage the heat by adjusting the vents on your grill. Closing the vents will reduce airflow and lower the temperature.
• Prevent Burning: If the tortillas start to brown too quickly, move them to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these barbecued chicken tortilla pizzas immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a refreshing touch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wedges on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the tortillas may become slightly soggy. While these are best served fresh, you can freeze them for up to a month. Thaw completely before reheating as instructed above.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	206 kcal	10%
Total Fat	11g	17%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Cholesterol	33mg	11%
Sodium	212mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	11g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	N/A
Protein	15g	30%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. Keep in mind that corn tortillas may be more fragile, so handle them with care.
• Vegetarian: Replace the barbecued chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can also add black beans for extra protein.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pepper jack cheese to control the spice level. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the chicken before grilling.
• BBQ Sauce Variety: Use your favorite type of barbecue sauce! Honey BBQ, spicy BBQ, or even a tangy vinegar-based sauce would all work well.
• Add Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like chopped red bell pepper, corn kernels, or sliced green onions.
• Mexican Pizza: Swap out the BBQ chicken for seasoned ground beef or shredded pork, and use salsa as a base instead of BBQ sauce for a south-of-the-border twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these pizzas in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
A: Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Place the tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of barbecued chicken?
A: Absolutely! Shredded pork, grilled steak, or even seasoned ground beef would be delicious substitutes.

Q: Can I prepare the pizzas ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the pizzas up to a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to grill them just before serving for the best texture.

Q: How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?
A: Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the tomatoes and don’t overload the tortillas with toppings. Grilling them over direct heat will also help to crisp them up.

Q: Can I use smaller tortillas for individual pizzas?
A: Yes, you can use smaller tortillas to make individual pizzas. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

These barbecued chicken tortilla pizzas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and convenient meal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The smoky flavor from the grill, combined with the cheesy goodness and tangy barbecue sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience pizza perfection in a whole new way. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own! Share your creations with friends and family, and let the compliments roll in. Happy grilling!