Name: High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread: Quick, Delicious Family Meal
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Flatbread Crusts (Store-bought or homemade options); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Use your favorite brand); 2 cups Diced Grilled Chicken or Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (Adds about 30g of protein per serving); 1 cup Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (Freshly shredded is best); 1 cup Chopped Bell Peppers (Can swap with jalapeños for extra kick); 1/4 cup Thinly Sliced Green Onions (For garnish)

There’s a certain magic that happens when the scent of BBQ wafts through the air, instantly transforming a weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering feast. My High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread captures that essence, combining tender grilled chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and gooey melted cheese, all ready in a mere 20 minutes. This recipe isn’t just a quick meal; it’s also a family favorite packed with 30g of protein per serving, making it perfect for growing appetites or those looking to fuel their active lifestyle. Whether you whip it up for a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this flatbread strikes the perfect balance between deliciousness and ease. So, are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to the next level with this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Flatbread So Irresistible?

Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delectable high-protein meal, perfect for busy weeknights.

Family-approved: With its cheesy, savory flavor, this BBQ Chicken Flatbread is bound to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

High in Protein: Each serving packs an impressive 30g of protein, making it ideal for active lifestyles or post-workout meals.

Adaptable and Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or cheese options, like those found in Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a unique twist!

Crispy and Flavorful: Enjoy a perfectly crispy crust topped with bubbly cheese and grilled chicken, bringing all the taste of a gourmet pizza right to your home.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and freeze the unbaked flatbreads for a quick reheat later—great for those nights when you want something special without the extra effort.

High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread Ingredients

For the Flatbread Base

• Flatbread Crusts – Store-bought or homemade options work great for a quick and easy base.

For the Sauce

• BBQ Sauce – Use your favorite brand to bring out the tangy flavor in this high protein BBQ chicken flatbread.

For the Protein

• Diced Grilled Chicken or Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – This primary ingredient adds about 30g of protein per serving and makes for a quick prep.

For the Cheese

• Shredded Colby Jack Cheese – Freshly shredded is best for achieving that delicious melt on top of the flatbread.

For the Veggies

• Chopped Bell Peppers – These add a touch of sweetness and nutrition; they can be swapped with jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Thinly Sliced Green Onions – A lovely garnish that brings freshness and a pop of color to your dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up during this time. This step ensures your flatbread will have a crispy texture right from the start, contributing to that delicious homemade taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheets
While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by lightly dusting them with cornmeal. This prevents the flatbreads from sticking later on. Arrange your flatbread crusts on the sheets, allowing space for toppings without crowding, which helps everything cook evenly.

Step 3: Spread the BBQ Sauce
Now, take your favorite BBQ sauce and evenly spread it over each flatbread. Aim to leave a small border around the edges to prevent a soggy crust. The tang of the sauce combined with the fresh flatbread forms the delicious base for your High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Next, generously sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over the BBQ sauce. Make sure to cover the sauce well, as the melty cheese is essential for that satisfying texture and flavor. Freshly shredded cheese will melt beautifully, creating that classic gooey layer we all love.

Step 5: Top with Chicken and Veggies
Evenly distribute diced grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken on top of the cheese layer. Follow this by scattering chopped bell peppers across the flatbreads, adding a pop of color and a crunch. Avoid overcrowding to maintain the right cooking temperature and ensure everything cooks perfectly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide the prepared flatbreads into the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the crust edges are crispy. The sight and aroma will tell you that your High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread is almost ready!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the flatbreads rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing them. This short resting period makes it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh and colorful touch, then dig in and enjoy your quick, family-friendly meal!

Expert Tips for High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly shredded cheese and quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor and melt. This enhances your High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread significantly.
Prevent Soggy Crust: Leave a small border when spreading BBQ sauce to avoid moisture seeping into the crust, ensuring it stays crispy.
Avoid Overloading Toppings: Stick to the recommended amount of toppings; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy flatbread.
Perfect Baking Temp: For optimal crispness, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the flatbreads inside. A hot oven is key!
Reheat Wisely: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven to maintain crispiness. Microwaving can make the crust chewy and less enjoyable.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble your flatbreads but don’t bake them. Wrap and freeze unbaked for easy, quick meals later!

How to Store and Freeze High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. This keeps your flatbread fresh while maintaining its delicious BBQ flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze unbaked flatbreads for up to one month. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat baked flatbreads in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Preparation Shortcut: Assemble your High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread but do not bake it. When you’re ready for a quick meal, just bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

What to Serve with High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Enhance your mealtime experience by pairing this tempting flatbread with delightful sides and beverages that complement its bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Crispy Arugula Salad: A light, peppery arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flatbread, balancing the meal beautifully.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn adds a wholesome touch, and its kernels provide a delightful crunch that’s perfect alongside the flatbread.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw not only adds a layer of texture but also offers a refreshing coolness that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ flavors.
Steakhouse Potato Salad: Rich and hearty, this creamy potato salad spiced with herbs perfectly complements the flavors of the flatbread, rounding out your meal with comfort.
Chickpea Beet and Feta Salad: Bursting with nutrients, this vibrant salad ties in earthy flavors and freshness, and its slight sweetness enhances the taste of the BBQ chicken.
Sparkling Water or Iced Tea: A crisp sparkling water or refreshing iced tea helps cleanse the palate, allowing you to savor every bite of your delightful flatbread.
Brownie Bites for Dessert: End on a sweet note with fudgy brownie bites that offer a rich contrast to the savory dish, making for a satisfyingly sweet finale.
Fruit Skewers: Light, seasonal fruit skewers provide a vibrant and fun dessert option, adding natural sweetness and freshness after the hearty flatbread.

These pairings effortlessly elevate your dining experience, ensuring that this weeknight favorite becomes a cherished family meal.

Make Ahead Options

These High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbreads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the flatbreads (without baking them) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply spread the BBQ sauce, layer the cheese, and top with the grilled chicken and veggies on the flatbread crusts. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge for 12-14 minutes until bubbly and golden. This prep in advance method saves you valuable time on busy weeknights, ensuring your flatbreads are just as delicious when baked!

High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this flatbread to suit your family’s taste buds!

Cheese Swap: Substitute Colby Jack with mozzarella or cheddar for a creamy twist, or mix varieties for a flavor explosion.
Blend flavors by using a mix of cheeses; it’ll elevate your dish to a cheese lover’s paradise!
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat that complements the BBQ sauce.
Just a dash or a sprinkle can transform this dish into a fiery delight your taste buds will crave.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate additional veggies like spinach, olives, or mushrooms for an added nutritional boost.
Feel free to toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand—they not only add color but can also enhance the flavor profile!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flatbread instead of regular for a delicious gluten-free meal the whole family can enjoy.
That way, everyone can indulge without sacrificing taste or texture, making for a happy gathering around the table!
BBQ Sauce Variety: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like honey BBQ or spicy chipotle, for a flavor twist.
Each sauce brings a unique element to your flatbread, making every bite exciting and new for the palate.
Pulled Pork Delight: Swap out chicken for pulled pork, and sneak some coleslaw on top for a delightful twist on this classic.
This will not only change the flavor profile but also offer a hearty, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the flatbread.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or basil on after baking for an aromatic touch that elevates the flatbread.
A little fresh herb can make a world of difference and transform your dish into something truly special!

For more family-friendly options, try exploring Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or consider adding some zest by pairing with Caribbean Chicken Rice. These variations open up a whole world of flavor possibilities that everyone will love!

High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread Recipe FAQs

What type of flatbread works best for this recipe?
I recommend using store-bought flatbread for convenience, but homemade versions can be just as delightful! Look for a flatbread that has a nice, crispy texture and sturdy structure to hold up under all those toppings.

How should I store leftover High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure it’s covered well to preserve the flavors. When ready to enjoy it again, I suggest reheating it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that crispy crust!

Can I freeze the High Protein BBQ Chicken Flatbread?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked flatbreads for up to one month. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time as needed.

What if I want to use different toppings or ingredients?
The great thing about this flatbread is its versatility! You can easily swap out the protein for leftover grilled chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based option. For veggies, feel free to get creative with ingredients like spinach, olives, or even corn. Just be cautious not to overcrowd the flatbread, as this could lead to a soggy base.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the Colby Jack cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. There are many great options available that offer a similar melty texture. For the BBQ sauce, just make sure it’s dairy-free as well!

What should I do if the flatbread starts to get soggy while baking?
If you notice your flatbread getting soggy, it’s important to check the amount of BBQ sauce you’re using. Spread it in a thin layer and leave a small border around the edges to prevent moisture from seeping into the crust. You might also consider baking it a few extra minutes to achieve that golden crispness!