If you’re craving a pizza that’s bursting with smoky, tangy flavors but still feels fresh and wholesome, you’re going to love this BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe. It’s a unique twist on classic pizza that brings together a crispy quinoa crust, luscious BBQ sauce, and hearty chickpeas for a combination that’s both satisfying and deliciously nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a meal that’s plant-based, gluten-friendly, or simply packed with flavor, this recipe has it all wrapped up in every scrumptious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe just right starts with simple, straightforward ingredients that each add their own magic. From the nutty quinoa crust that gives it a sturdy base, to the tangy BBQ sauce that infuses every bite with flavor, each component plays a crucial role in creating a perfectly balanced dish.
- Ultimate Quinoa Pizza Crust: This gluten-free crust holds everything together beautifully with a subtle, nutty flavor.
- BBQ sauce (1/2 cup, divided): Adds that signature smoky-sweet tang that defines this pizza’s personality.
- Small shallot (sliced): Brings a mild sharpness and slight crunch to contrast the tender toppings.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 container, sliced or quartered): Offers juicy bursts of freshness and a pop of vibrant color.
- Cooked chickpeas (1/2 cup): Adds hearty texture and protein, making the pizza truly filling.
- Nutritional yeast + fresh basil (optional): Perfect for sprinkling on top to introduce a cheesy flavor and herbal brightness.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and crust
Start by heating your oven to 425ºF and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, prepare your Ultimate Quinoa Pizza Crust batter as directed, then spread it evenly on the baking sheet into a rectangle about 12 inches by 6 inches. This crust forms the deliciously crispy and nutty foundation of the pizza you’ll build.
Step 2: Bake, flip, and get that crust perfect
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and flip it over. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure both sides get nicely golden and crisp—a crucial step for that satisfying crunch with every bite.
Step 3: Mix the chickpeas with BBQ sauce
While the crust bakes, toss your cooked chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of the BBQ sauce. This step lets the chickpeas soak up that smoky, tangy goodness, creating flavorful pockets throughout the pizza topping.
Step 4: Add toppings and finish baking
After the crust has baked for a total of 15 minutes, remove it from the oven and spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the top. Then scatter the shallot slices, cherry tomatoes, and BBQ-coated chickpeas across the surface. Pop it back into the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes to let everything meld together.
Step 5: Optional broil for crispiness
If you love a bit of crisp on your toppings, turn on the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking—just keep a close eye so nothing burns. This step adds a lovely golden finish and extra texture contrast.
Step 6: Slice and garnish
Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza and cut it into squares. Sprinkle generously with nutritional yeast and fresh basil if using—for that extra burst of flavor and a beautiful, fresh aroma that makes this BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe even more irresistible.
How to Serve BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil really brighten up the flavors, while a sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy note without overpowering the BBQ theme. Feel free to add thinly sliced green onions or a drizzle of vegan ranch for even more indulgence and freshness.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements this pizza wonderfully by adding refreshing acidity. You could also serve it alongside roasted veggies, or keep it light with a simple cucumber and dill salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe into bite-sized squares for a party platter, or serve it open-faced with a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Another fun way is layering it with some avocado slices and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy twist that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain freshness while allowing the flavors to deepen overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this pizza by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, perfect for a quick meal whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
Reheat your pizza slices in an oven or toaster oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes to revive the crispiness. Microwaving is possible but might make the crust a little softer, so the oven method is best to enjoy that original texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of crust for this BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe?
Absolutely! While the quinoa crust adds a unique texture and nutritional boost, you can experiment with cauliflower crust or gluten-free store-bought bases if you prefer. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe is completely plant-based. The nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarian diets.
Can I substitute chickpeas with another legume or protein?
Definitely. Black beans, white beans, or even cubed tofu would work well with the BBQ sauce if you want to mix things up or adjust based on what you have on hand.
How spicy is the BBQ sauce in this recipe?
The level of heat depends on the BBQ sauce you choose. For a milder taste, opt for a sweet or smoky sauce. If you enjoy a kick, try a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of chili flakes when topping.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can make the quinoa crust ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. You can also mix the chickpeas with BBQ sauce a day beforehand to save time on assembly.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite thanks to its delightful balance of flavors and textures. Every bite feels comforting yet fresh, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy pizza night with a wholesome twist. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how delicious healthy cooking can be!
PrintBBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas Recipe
This BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas is a delicious and nutritious twist on the traditional pizza, featuring a homemade quinoa crust topped with tangy BBQ sauce, shallots, cherry tomatoes, and cooked chickpeas. Perfectly baked to achieve a crispy crust and topped with optional nutritional yeast and fresh basil, this recipe serves two and makes a wholesome, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pizza Crust
- 1 batch Ultimate Quinoa Pizza Crust
Toppings
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
- 1 small shallot, sliced
- 1/2 container cherry tomatoes, sliced or quartered
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
Garnish (optional)
- Nutritional yeast
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the pizza crust.
- Prepare and Shape Crust: Prepare the quinoa pizza batter as per the Ultimate Quinoa Pizza Crust recipe, then pour it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the batter into a large rectangle roughly 12 inches by 6 inches.
- Bake Crust First Stage: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove it carefully from the oven, flip the crust over, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a firm texture.
- Prepare Chickpeas: While the crust is baking, mix the cooked chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce until they are well-coated to infuse flavor.
- Add Toppings and Continue Baking: After the crust has baked for a total of 15 minutes, take it out and spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the crust. Arrange the sliced shallots, cherry tomatoes, and BBQ-coated chickpeas evenly across the pizza surface. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the toppings are cooked and slightly caramelized. Optionally, broil the pizza for 2 to 3 minutes at the end to get a crisper top, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, slice into squares, and garnish with nutritional yeast and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful BBQ Quinoa Pizza with Chickpeas!
Notes
- You can customize the toppings by adding your favorite vegetables or substitute chickpeas with another protein source.
- Broiling at the end is optional but will add extra crispiness and texture.
- Ensure you flip the crust carefully to prevent breaking; using a wide spatula can help.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
