Traeger Buffalo Chicken Bacon Pizza

There’s something magical about combining smoky, spicy, and savory flavors into one dish, and this Traeger Buffalo Chicken Bacon Pizza is the perfect example. As someone who loves experimenting with bold flavors and cooking techniques, I can confidently say that this recipe is a game-changer. The smoky aroma from the Traeger grill, the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, and the crispy bacon all come together to create a pizza that’s unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or just craving something indulgent, this pizza will hit all the right notes.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off—just a love for good food and a Traeger grill (or any grill that can handle pizza). The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese is a crowd-pleaser, and the buffalo sauce adds just the right amount of heat. Trust me, once you try this pizza, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Pizza dough: The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own from scratch. A good dough should be slightly chewy with a crispy crust when cooked on the Traeger.

Buffalo sauce: This is the star of the show. The tangy, spicy flavor of buffalo sauce gives the pizza its signature kick. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter and a splash of vinegar.

Cooked chicken: Tender, shredded chicken works best for this recipe. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or grill your own chicken breasts for a fresher taste. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in buffalo sauce for maximum flavor.

Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a layer of richness and texture to the pizza. Cook it until it’s perfectly crisp, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese is essential for any pizza. It helps bind all the toppings together and adds a creamy contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce.

Blue cheese crumbles: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, blue cheese is a must. Its tangy, pungent taste pairs perfectly with the buffalo sauce and balances the richness of the bacon and cheese.

Green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild, oniony flavor that complements the other ingredients. They’re also great for garnish.

Ingredients List

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
2 green onions, thinly sliced

How to Make Traeger Buffalo Chicken Bacon Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Traeger Grill

Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 450°F. If you’re using a pizza stone, place it on the grill while it heats up. This ensures the stone gets hot enough to give your pizza a crispy crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. If you like a thin crust, roll it out thinner; for a thicker crust, leave it a bit more substantial. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy handling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Spread a generous layer of buffalo sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Next, add the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. Top with blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce if you like it spicy.

Step 4: Grill the Pizza

Carefully transfer the pizza (on the parchment paper) to the preheated Traeger grill. Close the lid and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Slice and serve immediately while it’s still warm and gooey.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use a pizza stone: If you have one, a pizza stone helps achieve a crispy crust and even cooking.
Don’t overload the toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the cheese and bacon, too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder pizza, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with a bit of ranch dressing.
Prep ahead: Cook the chicken and bacon in advance to save time when assembling the pizza.
Experiment with cheese: Try adding a mix of cheeses like cheddar or gouda for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this pizza in the oven instead of a Traeger grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 475°F and bake the pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

What can I use instead of blue cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with feta or simply leave it out. The pizza will still be delicious!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill for best results.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Shredded turkey or even pulled pork would work well as a substitute for chicken.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free pizza dough and ensure all other ingredients (like buffalo sauce) are gluten-free.

This Traeger Buffalo Chicken Bacon Pizza is a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a favorite in your household!