Gluten-Free Almond Flour Crust BBQ Chicken Pizza

Celiac.com 08/23/2025 - Pizza has a long and delicious history, with roots tracing back to ancient flatbreads eaten across the Mediterranean. But for those living with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, traditional wheat crusts are off-limits. Enter the world of alternative crusts—nut-based, veggie-packed, or even legume-inspired—where creativity meets comfort food. One standout in the gluten-free kitchen is almond flour, prized for its naturally gluten-free profile and rich, nutty flavor.

This Almond Flour Crust BBQ Chicken Pizza puts a smoky, tangy twist on a classic favorite, bringing together shredded chicken, bold barbecue sauce, and gooey mozzarella on a soft-yet-sturdy almond flour crust. The addition of a little tapioca starch lends just the right amount of chew to make this a pizza you can slice, hold, and savor. Topped with red onions and fresh cilantro, it’s a satisfying meal that skips the gluten but delivers all the flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups almond flour
• ¼ cup tapioca starch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
• ½ cup gluten-free BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Optional: red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the almond flour, tapioca starch, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the egg and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms. If it feels too sticky, add a tiny bit more almond flour.
4. Transfer the dough to the parchment-lined sheet and use your hands to press it into a ¼-inch thick round crust, about 10–12 inches in diameter.
5. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes until slightly golden and firm to the touch.

2. Assemble the Pizza

1. Remove the crust from the oven and spread the BBQ sauce evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edge.
2. Top with shredded chicken, mozzarella, and red onion slices.
3. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

3. Finish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
3. Slice and serve warm.

Conclusion

Celiac.com Sponsor (A12):
This Almond Flour Crust BBQ Chicken Pizza is a celebration of bold flavors and mindful ingredients. The naturally gluten-free crust is easy to make and sturdy enough to handle rich toppings, while the smoky barbecue sauce and melty cheese bring all the satisfaction of a traditional pie—without the gluten. Whether you're managing celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or just exploring healthier home-cooked options, this pizza proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat smart. It’s quirky, comforting, and perfect for pizza night in the gluten-free kitchen.