This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe is one of those meals that instantly transports you to a sunny beachside luau. Juicy chicken breasts soaked in smoky barbecue sauce mingle with sweet pineapple chunks and crisp bell peppers, all wrapped up in foil and cooked to juicy perfection. Each bite bursts with vibrant tropical flavors and a hint of spice, making this dish an absolute must-try for anyone craving a quick yet impressive dinner that feels both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each element—from the tangy BBQ sauce to the fresh pineapple—works together to build a dish that is colorful, packed with flavor, and wonderfully balanced in texture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Adds smokiness and a luscious glaze that ties the dish together.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks: Offers juicy sweetness and a tropical zing.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Brings vibrant color and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Adds a fresh crunch and mild pepper flavor.
- 1 small red onion (sliced): Gives a sharp bite and complements the peppers.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in seasoning and adds moisture to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a savory depth to the chicken rub.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky warmth.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish): Adds brightness and a fresh herbal note to finish.
- Optional: cooked rice for serving: Perfect for soaking up any juices.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, or your oven to 400°F if you prefer baking. Mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper together in a small bowl. This simple but flavorful rub acts like a flavor magnet, coating the chicken breasts evenly to ensure every bite is deliciously seasoned.
Step 2: Build the Foil Packets
Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty foil—these will hold all your delicious ingredients and lock in the steam as it cooks. Place each chicken breast right in the center of a foil sheet, then spoon generous dollops of BBQ sauce over each piece. Next, pile on the fresh pineapple chunks along with slices of red and green bell peppers and red onion. This layering not only looks incredible but ensures that every element steams together and infuses the chicken with tropical sweetness and crispness.
Step 3: Seal and Cook
Fold the sides of the foil up around the chicken and veggies, sealing the packets tightly so none of the flavors escape. Place the packets on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 20–25 minutes on the grill or 25–30 minutes in the oven. The foil acts like a mini steam chamber, cooking everything evenly and locking in moisture so your chicken comes out tender and juicy, perfectly married with the vibrant fruits and vegetables.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Carefully open the packets—be cautious of the escaping steam, as it will be hot! Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro or green onions over the top. Serve these foil packets as they are for a rustic, fuss-free meal or over a bed of fluffy cooked rice to soak up the savory-sweet juices.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions really brightens the dish and adds a lovely burst of color. A wedge of lime on the side can also enhance the tropical vibe by adding a subtle citrus kick that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
Side Dishes
While these foil packets are a one-pan wonder, pairing them with simple sides like steamed jasmine or basmati rice, a crisp green salad, or even coconut rice will round out the meal beautifully. The mildness of these sides balances the bold flavors of the chicken and pineapple perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and pineapple straight inside the foil packets on a colorful platter, letting guests unwrap their own individual portions. Or, you can arrange the contents on a large serving tray, sprinkle with extra herbs, and offer toppings like sliced jalapeños or extra BBQ sauce for guests to customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets can be transferred to airtight containers and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just keep the chicken and veggies together to preserve that juicy harmony.
Freezing
You can also freeze the assembled foil packets before cooking. Wrap them well with an extra layer of foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. When ready, cook straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking or grilling time.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the packets in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. If you’ve removed the chicken from the foil, gently reheat it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for chicken breasts, you can easily swap in thighs or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure your meat reaches the proper internal temperature.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your BBQ sauce does not contain gluten ingredients to be safe.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
For sure! Add sliced jalapeños to the foil packets or mix a little hot sauce into the BBQ sauce for an extra kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.
What if I don’t have a grill—can I bake the foil packets?
Definitely. Baking the packets in the oven at 400°F for 25–30 minutes works wonderfully and produces tender, juicy results just like grilling.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. At this point, it will be juicy and fully cooked through.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making a meal that feels like a mini getaway in every bite. Give this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe a try and bring a burst of tropical sunshine to your dinner table. It’s simple, vibrant, and perfect for sharing—it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and 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
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets recipe offers a flavorful and easy meal perfect for grilling or baking. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with smoky spices, topped with sweet pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers, then sealed in foil packets to lock in moisture and aroma. It’s a vibrant, fuss-free dish ideal for summer cookouts, camping trips, or quick weeknight dinners, served simply or over rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Fruit
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
Optional
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or oven: Set your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for cooking the foil packets.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over each chicken breast ensuring they are well coated.
- Prepare foil packets: Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place one chicken breast in the center of each sheet. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of BBQ sauce over each chicken piece, spreading it evenly.
- Add toppings: Distribute pineapple chunks, red and green bell pepper slices, and red onion slices over each chicken breast on the foil.
- Seal the packets: Fold and seal the foil tightly around the chicken and vegetables to create individual packets that will trap steam and flavors.
- Cook the packets: Place foil packets on the grill and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or alternatively bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through by confirming it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Carefully open the hot foil packets, watching out for steam. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve the chicken and veggies as is or over a bed of cooked rice.
Notes
- You can substitute BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- This recipe is perfect for camping or meal prep as foil packets can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until cooking time.
- Ensure to use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing and leaking juices during cooking.
- Check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free if adhering to a gluten-free diet.
