If you’ve been craving a tropical twist on a classic BBQ, then let me introduce you to the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe. This dish perfectly balances juicy chicken with the sweet tang of pineapple and zesty BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in convenient foil packets that lock in flavor and moisture. Whether you grill or bake them, these foil packets make for an easy, mess-free, and vibrant meal that’s bursting with island vibes in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays a key role in layering flavors and creating that irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and smoky that defines the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): The juicy protein foundation that soaks up all those yummy flavors.
- 1 cup bottled BBQ sauce: Adds smoky sweetness that complements the pineapple perfectly.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks: Brings bright tropical sweetness and a juicy pop in every bite.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Offers vibrant color and a gentle crunch to contrast the tender chicken.
- 1 small red onion (sliced): Adds subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the fruit and BBQ sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps coat the veggies and pineapple to enhance roasting and flavor melding.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them shine.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Provides a fresh, herbal brightness when sprinkled on top.
- Cooked rice for serving (optional): A perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce and juices from the foil packet.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Grill or Oven
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat setting ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the veggies and pineapple soften without turning mushy, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Toss the Veggies and Pineapple
In a large bowl, combine the fresh pineapple chunks, sliced red bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together so each piece is lightly coated, ensuring balanced seasoning and delicious caramelization during cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Foil Packets
Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil—enough to fold and seal the ingredients snugly. Place one chicken breast in the center of each sheet. Brush each piece generously with the BBQ sauce, allowing the sauce to infuse every bite with that classic tangy-sweet flavor.
Step 4: Add the Pineapple Mixture and Seal
Evenly distribute the pineapple and veggie mixture over the chicken breasts on each foil sheet. Carefully fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and veggies, sealing the packets tightly so all those fragrant juices stay locked inside during cooking.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Place the foil packets on the grill, or arrange them on a baking sheet if using the oven. Grill for 15 to 18 minutes or bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the pineapple is tender. This method guarantees juicy chicken infused with tropical flavors and smoky BBQ goodness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Carefully open the foil packets to avoid escaping steam, then sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top if you like a touch of herbal brightness. Serve the contents straight from the foil packet or pile onto a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a complete meal.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro adds eye-catching color and a refreshing note that complements the sweet and smoky flavors perfectly. You can also add a squeeze of lime for a little extra zing or some red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like coconut rice to keep the tropical theme going, or a crisp green salad to lighten things up. Grilled corn on the cob or steamed vegetables add texture and balance out the meal with their gentle earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the foil packets directly on the plate and open them table-side for a dramatic reveal of the sizzling goodness inside. You can also use banana leaves underneath for a beautiful island-inspired presentation that transports your guests straight to the beach.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe is a breeze to save. Just place the sealed packets or the contents in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for effortless next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze the uncooked foil packets. Prepare them as you normally would, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed for a quick tropical feast anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the foil and microwave the packet contents or warm them gently in a skillet. If you want to crisp things back up, a brief stint under the broiler or on a hot grill can bring back some texture and warmth, just be careful not to dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a juicy and flavorful option that works beautifully in the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe. Just be sure to check that they are cooked through before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken for firm tofu or large portobello mushrooms. Marinate them with the BBQ sauce and follow the same cooking instructions to enjoy all the tropical flavors without meat.
Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the packets up to one day in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill or bake. This makes weeknight dinners super easy and fast.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
A classic smoky BBQ sauce with a touch of sweetness is ideal for this recipe, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade sauce. The sauce harmonizes with the pineapple to create that perfect Hawaiian twist.
Can I add more vegetables to the packets?
Yes! Feel free to include any veggies you love, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly and stays tender-crisp.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe truly brings a taste of the islands right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises juicy, sweet, and smoky satisfaction wrapped in its easy foil parcel. Give it a try at your next meal and watch everyone fall in love with this simple yet unforgettable combo!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Foil Packets recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with sweet pineapple chunks and vibrant veggies, all cooked to perfection in individual foil packets. Ideal for grilling or baking, these foil packets offer a flavorful and easy dinner option that locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with smoky BBQ taste and tropical sweetness. Perfect served over rice and garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup bottled BBQ sauce
Vegetables and Fruits
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Cooked rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: Set your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures optimal cooking temperature for juicy chicken and evenly cooked vegetables.
- Prepare Foil Sheets: Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil to create individual packets for each serving, making cleanup easy and serving simple.
- Toss Vegetables and Pineapple: In a large bowl, combine pineapple chunks, sliced red bell pepper, and red onion. Add olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, tossing well to evenly coat the ingredients.
- Assemble Foil Packets: Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Brush each piece generously with BBQ sauce to infuse flavor and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Add Pineapple Mixture: Divide the tossed pineapple and vegetable mixture evenly over each chicken breast in the foil packets, layering the tropical sweetness and colorful veggies atop the meat.
- Seal Packets: Fold the sides of each foil sheet tightly over the chicken and vegetables, sealing the edges to lock in juices and steam during cooking.
- Cook the Packets: Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 15–18 minutes or bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully open the foil packets to avoid steam burns. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can prepare the foil packets up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- For a smoky flavor, use a grill and char the pineapple slightly before sealing in the packets.
