Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mini BBQ Chicken Pizza Tarts are a delightful fusion of savory flavors, offering the smoky richness of BBQ chicken paired with melty mozzarella and a hint of sweetness from corn and red onion. The puff pastry provides the perfect crispy, flaky base, making each bite utterly satisfying. They’re versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or a fun meal for the family. Easy to make, customizable, and always delicious, these tarts are an ideal choice for casual dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

1 package of refrigerated puff pastry (2 sheets)
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup corn (canned or frozen and thawed)
¼ cup cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Olive oil spray or brush for greasing
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil spray.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares, giving you a total of 8 squares.
Assemble the Tarts: Place the puff pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet. With a sharp knife, carefully score a ½ inch border around the edge of each square without cutting through. This will create a crust that puffs up during baking.
Mix the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Mix well until all the chicken is coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add Filling: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the BBQ chicken mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. Top the chicken with mozzarella cheese, a sprinkle of red onion, and corn.
Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or a fun meal option!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 tarts
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
Cheese Options: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version of these tarts.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These tarts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked tarts. Simply assemble them and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the puff pastry crispy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe and will save you time. Just shred it before using.

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

You can prepare the tarts and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking and cook them directly from frozen.

How can I make the tarts spicier?

Add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle some spicy BBQ sauce on top of the chicken mixture for a bit of heat.

Can I use puff pastry sheets from scratch?

Absolutely! If you prefer making your own puff pastry, go ahead. Store-bought puff pastry is simply a convenient shortcut.

How do I ensure the puff pastry gets crispy?

Be sure to preheat your oven and bake the tarts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Also, scoring the edges of the pastry helps it puff up evenly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, cheddar, gouda, or provolone are excellent alternatives to mozzarella. You can even use a blend of cheeses for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe without BBQ sauce?

You can substitute BBQ sauce with other sauces like ranch dressing or even tomato sauce if you prefer a different flavor base.

What can I serve these tarts with?

Serve them with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or even potato wedges for a full meal.

Are these tarts suitable for kids?

Yes! The mild flavors of BBQ chicken and cheese make these tarts kid-friendly and fun to eat.

How do I make these tarts crispy on the bottom?

Make sure to use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet. This ensures the tarts don’t stick and crisp up nicely.

Conclusion

These Mini BBQ Chicken Pizza Tarts are the ultimate easy snack or appetizer that everyone will love. With their combination of flaky puff pastry, smoky BBQ chicken, and melty cheese, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s quick to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun weeknight dinner, or just craving something delicious, these tarts will hit the spot every time.